Greeting from Shajin Lama of Kalmykia Telo Tulku Rinpoche on the First Turning of the Wheel of the Teaching

Dear brothers and sisters! Today we mark a momentous holiday connected with the life and Teaching of Buddha Shakyamuni. On this day more than two and a half thousand years ago the Buddha gave humanity the Teaching on the Four Noble Truths. The Four Noble Truths — the truth of suffering, the truth of the cause of suffering, the truth of the cessation of suffering, and the truth of the Path — are the foundation of the entire Buddhist Teaching. Without acknowledging this, it is impossible to grasp the true meaning of the whole Teaching of the Buddha. I believe that the Four Noble Truths reflect the real meaning of our existence and have a strong connection with our everyday life. It is important to study the Buddhist Dharma, apply it in one’s life, and cultivate in the heart love and compassion for all living beings. Now there are many opportunities to become acquainted with the foundations of one’s religion. Make use of them; they will help you find true happiness in this life. On this day it is important not merely to rejoice in a Buddhist holiday, but to strive to follow the example of the great Teacher, to live up to the life of the Buddha, and, like him, to perform virtuous deeds. On this day, significant for all Buddhists, on behalf of the monks of the Central Khurul “The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni” and personally, I heartily congratulate you on the holiday! I wish everyone health, happiness, and success in all your good deeds! Shajin Lama of Kalmykia, Honorary Representative of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Russia, Mongolia, and the CIS countries, Telo Tulku Rinpoche