Hi, I was just visiting this website and found it to be extraordinary. However, I have a few questions. Are the oracle protectors like Nechung(aka. Pehar), goddess Tseringma, and Gadong even enlightened? If not, then how come the Dalai Lama still uses them? And another thing, is Dorje Shugden an enlightened being? If so, then does that mean that Yamantaka and Manjushri are enlightened as well? I want to know how I can identify which beings are enlightened and which ones are not.
Answer from Pastors
Pastors
July 24, 2016 #1 AuthorDear Demian,
Thank you for your question. The protectors who take trance of Nechung, Tseringma and Gadong oracles are not enlightened beings. The reason why the Dalai Lama uses them is that when they were oath-bound they promised to help protect and spread the Dharma. They are not enlightened beings but worldly deities, unlike other Dharma protectors who are manifestations of the enlightened beings.
Dorje Shugden is an enlightened beings, in fact he is the same as Manjushri and Yamantaka. They are definitely enlightened beings. You can read more about Manjushri here: http://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/all-about-manjushri.html.
On our level, by that I mean we are not enlightened, we cannot directly perceive the mind of another being to see if they are enlightened or not. But we can use our minds to make logical conclusions as to the nature of various beings, through investigation into their actions and upon the advice of our Gurus and enlightened masters. I hope this helps.
Thank you.