Mindfulness Meditation · Equanimity
This week’s meditation session is led by Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche and the theme is Equanimity.
Buddha Ratnasambhava; Central Tibet; 13th century; Brass with traces of pigment; 16 1/2 × 12 × 8 1/2 in.; Rubin Museum of Art; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2010.19
This 13th-century sculpture from central Tibet depicts Buddha Ratnasambhava sitting in full-lotus position with his right palm held outward in the gesture of supreme generosity. Traditionally he is yellow in color and is associated with the southern direction. Yellow in Himalayan Buddhism represents giving and is associated with abundance. Ratnasambhava serves as a symbol of equanimity and poise, reminding his followers that no matter how little we may think we have, there is always a gift we can give to those around us.
His Eminence Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche is the son of the renowned terton, or “treasure revealer,” Namkha Drimed Rabjam Rinpoche, holder of the Ripa lineage. As a socially engaged Buddhist, philanthropic projects are a central part of his life’s work. Born in India, he has firsthand experience of the plight of Tibetan refugees and local villagers in finding and retrieving potable water. This inspired him to found the Pure Water Project, for which he received a citation from the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile. Other projects he directs include creating a malaria prevention and treatment program and the support of orphans, schoolchildren, monks, and the elderly. Jigme Rinpoche oversees the Ripa monasteries in both Nepal and India, along with their growing monastic communities and the Tibetan community in exile. He continues his teachings through Padma Ling and the Ripa Ladrang Foundations.
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