Puja is a form of devotional ritual that is especially inspiring when done with others. When we take an opportunity to gather and let go into the beauty of the shrine, mantra, readings, offerings and collective practice, we can experience a kind of spiritual uplift that is often difficult to describe.
Tonight's puja celebrates Padmasambhava, it being his annual celebration day a couple of days beforehand. Padmasambhava is revered in Himalayan countries, and is largely credited with establishing Buddhism in Tibet in the 8th Century CE. There is also a strong mythical element about him, and he has become a symbol of transformation in the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition.
Pujas on or near Padmasambhava Day can therefore at times be quite noisy and joyous affairs. So why not come an experience it for yourself. Open to everyone - if you're new, feel free to just soak up the atmosphere and simply participate to the degree you wish to.
Before attending, please read our current Covid Guidelines. This is part of how we practice together.
Sthiraratna ('steer-a-rat-na') is the Auckland Buddhist Centre Manager and has been involved in the Triratna movement since around 2010, in both…