Glasgow teachings begin, representatives of various faiths in Glasgow call on His Holiness
His Holiness the Dalai Lama teaching in Glascow (David Cheskin/ PA |
Glasgow, 30 May: His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teachings on Kamalashila’s ‘Middle Stages of Meditation’ and Togme Sangpo’s ’37 Bodhisattva Practices’ that began today was attended by about 5000 people – a figure beyond the expectations of the organiser, Dharma Network Limited, a non-profit making organisation formed of eighteen Tibetan Buddhist and Bon groups in UK.
“Dharma Network are deeply grateful to His Holiness the Dalai Lama for kindly accepting their request to give these teachings in Glasgow,” said an announcement accompanying ‘Root Texts and Prayers’ for the teachings on Meditation.
The public talk and teachings organised by the Dharma Network is open to all.
“His Holiness’ programme will have something for everyone, regardless of their familiarity with Buddhism,” the Dharma Network announced on its website, adding that the public talk that His Holiness gave yesterday to about 9500 people “will give everyone a chance to consider the moral and ethical challenges we face in the 21st century.”
The teachings conclude on June 1 with the Mitrukpa Initiation and offering of long life puja for His Holiness by the organisers.
Following the conclusion of the second session of today’s teachings, His Holiness granted an audience to representatives of the Glasgow Forum of Faiths. Lead by Councillor Irene Graham of the Glasgow City Council and Chair of the Glasgow Forum of Faiths, those who called on His Holiness included representatives from various Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, Jewish and Bahai groups. Councillor Graham on behalf of the group expressed their admiration for His Holiness’ effort in promoting peace and inter-religious harmony and presented the Tibetan Nobel Peace Laureate with a framed copy of the forum’s declaration.
His Holiness also gave an audience for the Mongolian community in UK lead by Ambassador Davaasambuu and Unurmaa Janchiv representing the Mongolian Community in UK. About 300 Mongolians attended the audience. There were also a few members from Inner Mongolia and the Buryatiya community.
A report sent by OoT, London