Rejoicing in the Extraordinary, Inexpressible X: Ven. Jangchup

Rejoicing in the Extraordinary, Inexpressible X: Ven. Jangchup

We asked our resident monk, Ven. Jangchup, some questions about his life and his experience at Vajrapani Institute. This is what he had to say about the qualities that lead him to rejoice and the lessons he has learned here.

What is it you most celebrate about yourself?

It was on my forty-eighth birthday that I found myself kneeling before Geshe Geltsen, the first Tibetan monk I’d ever met. Maroon robed, Geshe Geltsen recited the “Refuge” prayer and I pretended to know what was going on. Jump ahead three years and I am again kneeling before a holy man but now it is Lati Rinpoche, the abbot of Gaden Shartse monastery in southwestern India. I spent much of yesterday afternoon and this afternoon again it is hours spent kneeling and in a ritual of closer connection to the Dharma. When at last I am told to stand and I bow to each of the ten geshes who have honored me with their presence for these two days, I make my way up to the roof and watch the sunset and tell myself that this is surely the happiest day of my life. My monastic name translates as “Abounding Compassion.”

Twenty years later, I am settled in at Vajrapani Insitute and Lama Zopa Rinpoche, who has agreed to be my Teacher, has shown in so many touching ways what it is to be graced with abounding compassion. Lati Rinpoche and Geshe Geltsen have both passed on, and Lama Zopa Rinpoche has assign me to the fasting practice (Nyung-neyes) which I do before the image of Thousand-Arm Chenrezig.

In taking Refuge, then ordination, and now here in residence at Vajrapani Institute for more than a decade, something has happened to my heart. It is subtle. I call it X.

What’s the most precious thing Vajrapani Institute has given to you?

Vajrapani is where I find peace and challenge.

Vajrapani is where I retreat to and practice Nyung-nes.

Vajrapani is where I find love and friendship.

Vajrapani is where I lived with my dog Bodhi.

Vajrapani is where I wish to die.

Our students, volunteers, staff, and visitors gain precious knowledge and invaluable experiences here thanks to the support of all of our donors. This year you can have your donation matched until December 31st. Help us rejoice and bring out the best in everyone!