What is the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa's activity here in Kundreul Ling ?

It was part of the late 16th Karmapa's wishes, who, knowing that in the future there would be trouble in the lineage, requested Gendun Rinpoche to provide a place where the great tulkus could stay as there would be a time when these great bodhisattvas would no longer have a place of residence. So he gave Gendun Rinpoche the responsibility to build a place like this, with a temple, a monastery and three-year retreat centres. A house was also built. At first it was for Gendun Rinpoche, but very quickly he said it was destined for the 17th Karmapa. That was the starting point.

Then Shamar Rinpoche found that this place would be suitable for the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa to further his studies and his training, to receive transmission and to do retreats, since Kundreul Ling was created for these activities. The 'Greater Dhagpo' is the European seat of the Gyalwa Karmapa, and so this is a very natural place for him to stay. It's his place, as is Dhagpo Kagyu Ling, and since it provides the conditions for retreat and studies, that's the reason why he's here.

When it's time for him to have a different activity - travelling, giving teachings, empowerments and all these things, of course this place will no longer be appropriate for this type of activity. Now, in his own words, he wants to complete his training, he wants to learn more in order to be better able to help beings, that's the only wish he says he has. Karmapa is not here to create any territory, because it's just a place to stay; his only concern is to help. When he first arrived in Paris he gave a little talk and was very clear. He said he was happy to be here, because it was an opportunity for him to meet Dharma practitioners. He added that he was really happy that such a country provided people the possibility to practice Dharma on a deep level.

He rejoiced about that and about the fact that there are many people following the Dharma. He also said it was not the only reason for his coming here, that he was also coming to meet other people - non-Buddhists and all sorts of people, not only disciples and followers. He wants to provide help not only to those who are committed and practising, but to be available and provide help to whomever needs it.

February 7th 2000

Biography of
Chobgye Trichen Rinpoche