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The Jowo has Arrived

An unprecedented cultural phenomenon is taking place in the United States: A full-size replica of Tibet’s most revered statue, the Jowo Rinpoche, has been installed at the Jokhang Institute, a Tibetan Buddhist organization in Arlington, Massachusetts.  This arrival is the first stage in resident teacher Lama Konchok Sonam’s vision of creating a US Buddhist pilgrimage site in which seekers of all traditions can benefit from the rich spiritual, cultural and artistic heritage of Tibet.  

What is the Jowo Rinpoche Statue?
The Jowo Rinpoche Statue is one of Tibet’s most significant religious icons.  In the seventh century, the original statue in Lhasa was brought to Tibet by King Songtsen Gampo’s Chinese wife, Princess Wencheng. The statue, a life size image of Buddha Shakyamuni, is especially revered since according to legend, it was built during Buddha’s life. The statue has resided for hundreds of years in its own temple in Lhasa. To millions of Tibetan Buddhists, the Jowo Rinpoche statue is a source of profound blessings, considered to bestow freedom from fear and suffering on those who view it with devotion.  It’s been called the Wish Fulfilling Jewel, for its ability to grant those who pray to it their deepest wishes.  Traditionally Tibetans make pilgrimages to Lhasa in order to view the statue once in their lifetime, to receive the benefits of viewing an image said to quicken the seekers path to Enlightenment.

In a more general context, the statue is a source of blessing for practitioners of all faiths and it is a visual manifestation of innate goodness that all can respond to. More immediately, given the current plight of Sino-Tibetan relations, the arrival of the Jowo Shakyamuni statue comes at an opportune moment for Lama Sonam's vision of dialog between diverse groups and peaceful resolution to problems at all levels.

Currently the Jowo Rinpoche is located at the Jokhang Institute, 15 Bartlett Ave., Arlington, MA. The Drikung Meditation Center conducts a weekly schedule of meditation practice at this location. Those wishing to visit the statue are welcome to attend any regularly scheduled class. You can also phone (888) 583-7164 or email to schedule a viewing time.

Most importantly, the Jowo Rinpoche Statue needs a larger permanent building in order to fulfill its mission. Please donate today to make this possible.