Conclusion of the 20th Grand Kagyu Monlam at KIBI

“We must keep non-violence as our goal.”

(His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje)

The purpose of holding Mönlam gatherings such as the Kagyu Mönlam is to bring peace to the world and to increase happiness and wisdom for everyone.

Commonly translated as “aspiration prayer”, Mönlam literally means “wish-path”. All beings have their own individual wishes for their life which they aspire to fulfil without any obstacles. Reciting Mönlam is a profound way of wishing in the most beneficial, boundless manner, aiming to accomplish the greatest benefits for everyone and everything. By setting one’s minds in such a way, the practitioner’s individual wishes will likewise find fulfilment.

The vast and superlative offerings that are an essential part of the practice, express our deep faith in all the Buddhas of the Three Times, and form a ground for accomplishing all aspirations. Through the power of conviction in excellent conduct, we prostrate and offer them to all the Victorious Ones.

The last day of the grand Kagyu Monlam is always a special occasion, including a Tsok (Feast) offering to the Dhagpo Kagyu Masters, the prayer of auspiciousness of the Karma Kagyu Lineage, long-life prayers for all the bodhisattvas, great aspiration prayers and various prayers of auspiciousness. This year, we performed particular prayers for the world battling with war and its vast impacts, for that peace may come to prevail in all conflict-torn places.

Lastly, we would like to sincerely thank the Thaye Dorje Foundation and all sponsors who offered their generous support to the Kagyu Monlam at KIBI.

May all sentient beings always be well and happy!