New Kadampa Tradition
Kadampa Buddhism was first introduced to the West in 1977, by the renowned Teacher and meditation Master, Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, known affectionately to his students and disciples as Geshe-la.
Born in Tibet in 1932, he studied at Sera Je, one of its great monastic centres, before spending twenty years in meditative retreat in the Himalayas.
Since that time he has worked tirelessly to spread Kadampa Buddhism throughout the world, giving extensive teachings, translating, writing books, and establishing nearly 600 Dharma Centres and meditation groups.
Each Centre offers study programs, meditation instruction, and chanted prayers, for all levels of practitioner.
The emphasis remains on integrating Buddha's teachings into daily life, in order to solve our own everyday problems, and to spread lasting peace and happiness to the world around us.
The Kadampa Buddhism of the NKT (New Kadampa Tradition) is an entirely independent Buddhist tradition and has no political or cultural affiliations. It is an association of Buddhist Centres and practitioners which derives its inspiration and guidance from the example of the early Kadampa Buddhist Masters and the remarkable teachings which they have passed down to us through Geshe Kelsang.
For further information on Kadampa Buddhism click here
Special Spiritual Programs
There are three reasons why we need to study and practice the teachings of Buddha:
- To develop our wisdom
- To cultivate a good heart
- To maintain a peaceful state of mind
If we do not strive to develop our wisdom, we shall always remain ignorant of ultimate truth - the true nature of reality. Although we wish for happiness, our ignorance leads us to engage in non-virtuous actions, which are the main cause of all our suffering.
If we do not cultivate a good heart, our selfish motivation destroys harmony and good relationships with others. We have no peace, and no chance to gain pure happiness. Without inner peace, outer peace is impossible.
If we do not maintain a peaceful state of mind we are not happy even if we have ideal conditions. On the other hand, when our mind is peaceful we are happy even if our external conditions are unpleasant.
Therefore, the development of these qualities is of utmost importance for our daily happiness.
