About Nyungnye and Lhabap Duchen

Buddhahood is the state in which one spontaneously and effortlessly benefits oneself and all beings without exception. In order to attain this state, we must perfect the accumulations of merit and wisdom. Through the perfection of the two accumulations, we purify our notions of self and other and realize the true nature of mind.

The resident sangha of PTC will be participating in the practice of Nyungne (the Fasting Ritual and Meditation of Thousand-Armed Chenrezig). The Nyungne practice is a profound kriya tantra meditation ritual based on loving-kindness and compassion in the form of Thousand-Armed Chenrezig. The practice involves maintaining strict vows and meditating while reciting mantras and prayers, and performing prostrations and visualizations. Undertaken in sets of two days, the first day includes one vegetarian meal at noon, drinking water throughout the day as needed. The second day is a complete fast performed in noble silence. The Nyungne is renowned as a superior means to purify negative karma and accumulate great merit.

The fasting day for this Nyungne falls on October 27, the auspicious occasion of Lhabap Duchen, commemorating Lord Buddha’s return from the Tushita realm. It is said to be a time when the merit accumulated through performing virtuous activity is multiplied.

Although the monastery is closed to the public, there are many ways to share in the merit of this event through sponsoring the chanting, the tea served during the chanting, and the lunch.

You may also simply mail your tax-deductible contribution to:
Palpung Thubten Chöling
Attn: Office
245 Sheafe Road, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590.

Please make checks payable to Palpung Thubten Choling or PTC. For credit card payments, fax your credit card number (VISA or MasterCard only), along with the expiration date and signature and the amount you would like to charge to (845) 297-5761. For your protection, please do not email your credit card information.

Please send your prayer request and sponsorship information 48 hours before the first day of chanting to guarantee that we receive it in time to announce your prayer. If you are not able to do that, please leave a short but clear message of your prayer on 845-297-2500 and we will do our best to have your prayer announced.