Phakyab Rinpoche

Ngawang Sungrab Phakyab Rinpoche, (pronounced “Puk Jub Rin Poh Chey”) is a high ranking lama and a renowned practitioner in the Gelugpa order of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in Kham, Tibet in 1966 and ordained at the age of thirteen, Rinpoche began his monastic training at Ashi Monastery in Eastern Tibet before transferring to Sera Mey Monastery in southern India, where he trained under the tutelage of Ven. Khenpo Lobsang Jamyang and Ven. Khensur Geshe Tinle Topgye.

In 1994, while studying for his Geshe degree (the highest rank in Tibetan Buddhist scholarship) Rinpoche was recognized by the Dalai Lama, as the eight reincarnation of the Phakyab Rinpoche – a venerated Buddhist teacher. Subsequent to this recognition, the Dalai Lama requested that Rinpoche return to Tibet in order to assume leadership of Ashi and Lithang Monasteries, the traditional seats of the Phakyab Rinpoche. While in Tibet, Rinpoche became known for his ability to perform Tantric obstacle-clearing rituals to assist individuals in their physical and emotional healing. In 2003, the United States Government granted him full political asylum and Rinpoche spent many months in the hospital dealing with many serious health issues. After consulting with the Dalai Lama, Rinpoche decided to go into retreat and rely on his faith and his practices to heal himself. After six months, to the astonishment of his
doctors, Rinpoche was on the path of regaining radiant health. In 2009, he was able to return to Sera Mey Monastery and received his Geshe degree.

Rinpoche is a powerful example of the potential we all have to cultivate the life of the Bodhisattva or spiritual hero. He is a steadfast advocate of non-violent conflict resolution and he brings humility, cheer and boundless compassion to his teachings. His personal story of self-healing vividly demonstrates our inherent potential to heal ourselves physically, mentally and emotionally and it also serves as a reminder that obstacles can be transformed into resources for spiritual awakening.

Rinpoche currently resides in Jackson Heights, New York. He teaches both locally and across the country. He aspires to teach Buddhism widely and to foster ecumenical dialogue between practitioners of Buddhism and other spiritual and healing traditions. Rinpoche welcomes questions and requests from students of all faiths and backgrounds.

In the Buddhist spirit of generosity and inclusiveness, Dharma teachings are offered free of charge. However, voluntary donations for the teacher and translator, or Dana, are welcome and your generosity is gratefully accepted and appreciated.

Sponsored by the Helen Graham Park Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to promoting dialogue between the modern science and the ancient wisdom traditions of the world. The Helen Graham Park Foundation may be reached at: 305-751-8765, & www.illuminations.org