When Geshe Kelsang here is speaking about following both religions but eventually having to choose one, he is responding to the interviewer's asking him about his view of Christianity. Ta.
These extracts are from a documentary called, I think, 'The Guide', filmed at Manjushri Centre, Cumbria, in 1995. I think that the crew were not specifically connected to Kadampa Buddhism but wanted to make a product of this nature for television, however I don't think the TV channels at that time were interested, so it was just sold to Buddhists as a VHS cassette. It incorporated interviews from Manjushri residents at that time and some footage from a prayer session with Geshe Kelsang, as well as an account of one man's spiritual journey prompted by his cancer. Also there is a contribution from the Morecambe Bay sands walking guide, as an example of the principle of how a spiritual guide knows the way safely across danger.
+Mole Town Nice synopsis, Mole Town! As the producer of this video, I can vouch for its accuracy!! Yes, the title is The Guide - Following The Buddhist Path, and you're absolutely correct that we were not connected to the NKT - just curious onlookers. Given the number of excerpts floating around RU-vid without credit or permission, I suppose I should be flattered...
Hi Mole Town, Very nice resumption, I know that documentary myself and have liked it a lot, also had a VHS cassette in 2004 that I picked up in a Tharpa store in Basel, CH. I thought I saw it on RU-vid for a while, but I'm not sure if it's still available. I especially enjoyed the filming of Geshe-la's (first?) visit in Seattle, WA, and this above interview extract which is precious. Thank you again, and best regards from Salt Lake City, UT.
In my opinion, all religions are cults. It is just a matter to what degree. In my opinion, this buddhist tradition, like all, are a cult to some degree, just like Islam, Judaism, Christianity, etc. The chore tenets of this organization are common to almost all religions, be kind, be compassionate, be patient, etc. If one focuses on these elements, and ignores elements that are not consistent with those fundamental chore virtues, the journey will be worthwhile. There is a reason the solitary yogi, like the Buddha exist(ed). Monastic conditions are more likely to have political agenda. We can take the chore teachings and run, as Buddha did. I have seen Kelsang Gyatso, and was ordained by him. He is not a fraud. He is (was) realized no doubt. When reading his books that is clear, but more so, being in his presence it was clear. That said, there are elements in this organization that are contrary to Buddha's teaching, and those should be avoided. For example, the Buddha was very clear on conduct. The NKT not so much. Dharma is never to be sold would be another example.
Before he passed away, ccp invited Geshe Kelsang Gyatsho to Lhasa. He was treated royally and announcement was made by ccp that Living Buddha has come from abroad and everyone is welcone to get his blessing . Tibetans became suspicious because in the past ccp threatened to arrest any Tibetans trying to get blessing from the "fact finding mission" . Soon the news spread that Kelsang Gyatso was not a legit geshe and he works with ccp to defame Dalai Lama. Still many people had to go unwillingly because they feared the consequences. Some people surreptiously spat on him, glared at him and showed many sign that he had to cut short his visit. Thats NKT for you.
@@gyurmethlodroe1774 and? is that supposed to cause me to be deluded enough to think monastery politics is something worth my time? no. the only important things are he got his geshe degree like everyone else who puts in the study and memorization, and teaches dharma well to westerners.
