The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche

Nalandabodhi Seattle offers both training in meditation and study, which are said to be equally important, like the two wings of a bird. The practice path begins with training in the basics and extends through profound Mahamudra, Dzogchen and sadhana practices, based on the Nalandabodhi path curriculum and practicum. Our study program, based on the Nalandabodhi study curriculum, offers continuing classes on a year-round basis .

Acharya Sherab Gyaltsen Negi leading a curriculum study class at Nalandabodhi Seattle

Acharya Sherab Gyaltsen Negi is the teacher in residence at Nalandabodhi Seattle. Acharya-la was trained at Nalanda, the main Kagyu shedra in Rumtek, where he received his Acharya degree. Since that time he has the main teacher at Lava Monastery in the Darjeeling District in India. In the Summer of 2001, Acharya-la graciously accepted a residential appointment at Nalandabodhi Seattle. He teaches classes here and at other Nalandabodhi centers on important Buddhist topics, participates in Nalandabodhi curriculum studies and teaches and tutors students in the Tibetan language.

Senior students also provide classes using the formal curriculum and materials created by Rinpoche, which cover the key aspects of the Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana paths. Those who choose to practice under Rinpoche's guidance also follow a practice curriculum through which participants may progress along the Buddhist path of meditation and practice.

A planning meeting at Seattle Nalandabodhi to prepare for the visit of H.E. Dzogchen Rinpoche

Nalandabodhi is an international organization, and many Nalandabodhi international operations are also based in Seattle. Many members of the Seattle sangha have been asked by Rinpoche to lead projects for the international sangha, and are instrumental in the implementation on an international level of both the Nalandabodhi curriculum and the practicum.  

The Seattle sangha, with help from other Nalandabodhi sanghas, Vancouver in particular, is the host for week-long retreats for Rinpoche's students. The first was held in the Cascade Mountains; the second along the Hood Canal; the 2001 retreat on Mahamudra was held at Lake Quinnault. Attended by Rinpoche's students from all over the world, participants gained glimpses into the most profound aspects of the Buddhist path.

The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche and Acharya Sherab Gyaltsen at a post-event tea at Nalandabodhi Seattle.

We were also fortunate to have more mahamudra teachings in May 2001 from Nalandabodhi's spiritual head, Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche. Dzogchen Rinpoche and The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche are both scheduled to present major teaching events in November.

Click here for the current calendar of activities at Nalandabodhi Seattle.