Taiwan train disaster: Karmapa’s message

April 3, 2021

Following the train crash in Taiwan on Friday, Thaye Dorje, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, shares the following message.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A transcript of Karmapa’s letter:

Dear dharma friends

One of the worst rail disasters in Taiwan’s recent history occurred this week. At least 50 people, including a six-year-old girl, lost their lives. Many others are still unaccounted for.

During the period of the pandemic, we have been surrounded by stories of suffering and death. It could perhaps be understood if we paid less attention these days to the news of a train crash, perhaps in a country that we know little about, very far away.

Nevertheless, we should guard against this. As Buddhists, we practice limitless compassion. We remain open to the suffering of all sentient beings, at all times, and we pray for the end of all suffering and its causes. 

Please join me in praying for the victims of this disaster and their loved ones. Please focus on the six-syllable mantra of Chenresig, and dedicate the merit of this practise to those who have been affected by this tragedy, and to all those who suffer around the world.

With compassion

Thaye Dorje 

His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa