In May 2008 Lama Shenphen Rinpoche gave back his Gelong vows. As many persons were wondering what was the reason behind it, and for the benefit of pacifiying their mind, Rinpoche took the opportunity to answer a question on this topic to make an extensive answer which could be used publicly.
At 4:39pm on 26th May 2008, Lee said…
Would you mind me asking why you became a layman, after being so highly ordained?
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When times are changing, circumstances not the same as before, there is the need to adapt to be able to pass on the depth of our message. Since years already, we did put efforts to adapt the way Buddhism is presented, to be more easily understood and accepted in our Western societies.
There is one step more I have decided to implement.
About a year ago, a well known Rinpoche and melong reader told me that for the long term benefit I should better be a lay Lama from now on. I am ordained since age 16, which brings me to be monk since 23 years now. Having no urgent reason to give back my ordination, I didn’t implement this advice immediately.
Yet, during this time I have pondered upon few points:
* It is often that people do think that an ordained person can’t really “know the life” they are facing, and consequently have difficulties to rely completely on the explanation or advices given.
* The path of ordination is not well recognised in the West. Also, people have in mind the exaction of monks and priests of other dominant religions, which doesn’t give a nice background. It comes often that being ordained appears then as an obstacles in my activities.
* When teaching Dharma to non-Buddhists, or sympathizers, they manifest difficulties to identify with the message taught, thinking that such teachings or practices are fine only for ordained, but not applicable in “daily life”. I have made long ago the choice to remain “in the society”, to help all those who have no possibility to join monasteries, long retreats, etc. yet want to learn and apply Buddha Dharma. I came to take under my care now two children, and lead a Dharma city Center in Slovenia. I can see that these are usually points which help some people to come closer to teachings and practice of Buddhism.
On the other side, some people might think I have given up the Path of Virtue and give back my vows for personal reasons. I can explain it is not the case, but can’t help further. I sincerely hope not many people will think this way.
I hope also that my step won’t encourage any other monk or nun to do the same, unless specially advised to do so by a high Lama. The ordained Path is a wonderful ground for merit accumulations and to work on one’s mind with proper guidelines.
So, after 23 years ordained, I am now not monk anymore, with a little regret in my selfish mind, but wishing this step will bring more benefit.
Nevertheless, I remain in my role of leading Dharmaling, teaching Dharma, and receiving people for personal advises or healing. As a matter of fact, not much will change in the appearances.