Thekchen Choling

  "What is a meaningful life?"     It's a profound question that has puzzled humanity for ages. Many paths explore this question, and Buddhism offers insights that can benefit everyone, regardless of their beliefs. At its core, Buddhism teaches us to let go of attachments, cultivate compassion, and practice mindfulness. These principles may manifest differently for each person, but they all lead to greater joy, peace, fulfilment, and a more profound sense of purpose and meaning. 1. Be Present   Embrace mindfulness to experience each moment fully. Practice mindful meditation, breathing, eating, and walking to immerse yourself in the present.     2. Let Go   Release attachments to the past and future, focusing on the present. Practice appreciation, meditate mindfully, and declutter your life.     3. Cultivate Compassion   Extend loving kindness to yourself and others. Practice self-compassion, empathy, kindness, and forgiveness for onese...

  "By the action of circumambulating stupas, the goals of all paths will be realised.” - Shakyamuni Buddha Stupas are deeply embedded in Buddhism as a symbol of Buddha’s enlightenment. This article will dive into the significance of stupas, the benefits of making and circumambulating a stupa, and also introduce the main stupa that we have at Thekchen Choling Singapore.   Significance of Stupas   Stupas are profound symbols of the Buddha’s presence, representing not just his physical form, but also his enlightened mind. Before passing into Parinirvana, the Buddha imparted a significant teaching: “When I pass away you can use my relics, whatever remains of my body, and erect a stupa in a special place. Then you can treat that place, that stupa, in the same way as you would treat myself.” This instruction laid the foundation for the importance of stupas in Buddhism.  Making a stupa is a complex process which starts with the making of moulds and pouring of...

  Speech is the act of speaking or communicating with one another. Many times in our daily lives, our speech can improve or sour the relationships we have with the people around us. Hence, it is a very important aspect of life to consider. There are many types of speech and manners of speech with regards to Buddhism.   The Buddha taught the four types of negative actions in regards to speech. These are namely lying, divisive speech, harsh speech and idle gossip. Unknowingly, in some point of our lives, we all fall prey to these four negative ways of speech. However, it is never too late to realize and transform our negative speech patterns.   Telling a lie may bring some short-term benefits. However, in the long run, one short lie changes himself. If one lies, the experience is that others will start to mistrust you and they no longer believe in your words. Also, if lying becomes habitual, we will then create the cause to be living amongst cheats, whether in thi...