Mahayana Restoration Purification Ceremony (Nyungne Fasting Ritual)
Nyungne is a profound fasting practice that is whole heartedly devoted to Buddha’s ethics, meditation and enlightenment which is an integral part of Mahayana Buddhism that requires the empowerment of “Arya Avalokiteshwara”, The Supremely Compassionate One. This purifying retreat comprises of 8 essential precepts which were created by Lord Buddha that ought to be strictly followed by all the Nyungne-Pa. These 8 precepts are to abandon:-
- killing
- Stealing
- Sexual activity
- Lying
- Intoxicants
- Sitting on high or expensive beds or seats
- Engaging in recreational activities & use of perfumes, ornaments & cosmetics.
- Eating at improper times
A total of 3 ritual sessions are performed each day during this retreat. Each ritual session involves visualization of “Arya Avalokiteshwara”, Supremely Compassionate One (Thousand Arms & Thousand Eyes Chenrezig) and recitation of mantras belonging to lotus family section of kriya tantra in order to purify our negativities and accumulate merit to attain enlightenment for liberating all sentient beings from all forms & causes of suffering.
On the first day, we take only one vegetarian meal before noon that does not contain onion, garlic & radish, However, light beverages can be taken throughout the day. On the second day, we neither eat nor drink and also don’t speak other than when chanting the sacred verses of the ritual. The fast finishes on the morning of the third day. Nevertheless, those willing to continue may again take the vows of the Nyungne fasting ritual.
Nyungne Fasting Ritual is believed to have been formulated by the Buddhist nun kamala(Gelongma Palmo) in accordance with the history of Buddhism.
According to Lord Buddha, Ethics is the fundamental basis of meditation and enlightenment. Therefore, we sincerely hope that all monks, lamas and devotees will faithfully take part in the Mahayana Restoration purification Ceremony under the aforementioned ethics of Lord Buddha and accumulate merit for the benefit of oneself as well as others.
Main Nyungne Lama Jigmey Tender
Harka Jang Ghale
Bouddha Arghoun Sadan