The vital role of laypeople in religious practice in Bhutan
Khenpo Yonten Phuntsho rinpoche, principal of Ugyen Dongak Shedrup Dargye Ling in Bhutan’s Sarpang District, exemplifies the country’s rich tradition of spiritual devotion.
Coming from the esteemed Nyingma Pedling lineage, Khenpo Yonten has dedicated himself to Buddhist philosophy, following in the footsteps of his father, Lama Tsewang Dorji, who established the monastery in 2017.
In his leadership role, Khenpo Yonten prioritizes benefiting the wider community, emphasizing education for monks and outreach to the populace.
He underscores the vital role of laypeople in religious practice, highlighting their participation in rituals, festivals, and acts of service.
For Khenpo Yonten, meditation is key to fostering inner peace and harmony, both for monastics and lay practitioners.
Encouraging mindfulness meditation, Khenpo Yonten emphasizes the importance of understanding one’s own mind and emotions.
By observing and calmly discerning the root causes of emotional reactions, individuals can cultivate a more peaceful mindset and reduce suffering.
He advocates for the integration of meditative practices into daily life, promoting the manifestation of Buddhadharma in every aspect of existence.
Ultimately, Khenpo Yonten’s teachings center on deploying wisdom and adopting a meditative approach to life.
By embodying meditation and cultivating a “wisdom mind,” individuals can navigate life’s challenges with clarity and compassion, embodying the essence of Buddhist teachings for personal and collective well-being.
