
Among the many popular Tibetan Buddhist religious ceremonies, there exists one that enjoys special veneration and whose performers are considered to possess supernatural powers which enable them to carry it out. This practice is called 'Breaking the Stone' or 'pho-bar rdo gcog' in Tibetan. These days, the ancient art of 'Breaking the Stone' for the dispelling of evil spirits residing inside, seldom takes place. The lineage of this practice traces its origins back to the great 15th century architect, blacksmith and bridge building master, the Mahasiddha Thangtong Gyalpo. The current lineage holder and his group rarely perform the ceremony, but auspiciously chose to visit Palpung Sherab Ling Monastic Seat on February 5th 2008. The group, who has previously performed for Gyalwa Tenzin Gyatso(H.H Dalai Lama), performed the 'Breaking the Stone' at Palpung Sherabling on the same day as the annual Mahakala dance. This year, they dedicated this auspicious 'Breaking the Stone' ritual to the long life of the 12th Kenting Tai Situpa. The group received blessings from Kenting Tai Situpa Rinpoche and ended the ceremony with a dedication dance.
Photos
|