What whispers of peace can be found here? Drikung Dharma Surya Center stands as a beacon of Tibetan Buddhism in the heart of Fairfax County. It is located a short drive west of Washington D.C.. This Drikung Dharma Surya Center offers a unique space for learning, meditation, and community.
The Drikung Dharma Surya Center belongs to the Drikung Kagyu lineage. The Kagyu Lineage descends from the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Drikung Kyopa Jigten Sumgyi founded it in the twelfth century. Today, Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang is the 37th lineage holder.
Garchen Rinpoche, revered as the reincarnation of Siddha Gar Chodingpa, a disciple of Kyobpa Jigten Sumgon, founded Drikung Dharma Surya Center. Garchen Rinpoche spent twenty years imprisoned, and then rebuilt Drikung Kagyu monasteries. In 1997, he came to the United States and established eleven Dharma Centers.
In August 2015, His Holiness the 37th Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang, Garchen Rinpoche, and Lamchen Gyalpo Rinpoche consecrated the temple. They gave blessings and guidance to all.
Garchen Rinpoche emphasized that the Drikung Dharma Surya Center generates loving kindness and peace. It promotes peace within individuals, families, communities, and among all beings. It aims to eliminate violence and war. The center teaches about karma. The merit gained here leads to rebirth in happy states and ultimately enlightenment.
Inside Drikung Dharma Surya Center, the shrine hall houses statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, White Tara, and Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara. These statues contain relics of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni and other enlightened masters. The sacred Mani, White Tara, and Vajrakilaya mantras are chanted 24 hours a day. The 100 volumes of sacred Kangyur and 1,000 golden Buddha statues surround the shrine. It is believed that the Buddha relics bring great blessings. Visiting the Drikung Dharma Surya Center is particularly beneficial for those who are sick or experiencing obstacles.
The Drikung Dharma Surya Center features a special golden-colored metal prayer wheel. This prayer wheel contains billions of mantras. Spinning the prayer wheel brings blessings to the surrounding environment and purifies negative karma.
The Contemplation Garden displays the 37 Practices of Bodhisattvas. There is also a statue of Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha who vowed to guide all beings from hell.
Drikung Dharma Surya Center is led by Khenpo Konchog Samdup, who was appointed by Garchen Rinpoche in 2014. Khenpo Samdup instructs meditation and Buddhism classes.
Drikung Dharma Surya Center offers various events. They include meditation workshops and Tai-Chi classes. The center also sells Buddha statues, books, jewelry, and traditional Asian clothes in its gift shop. Sponsorship of a Buddha statue is a way to gain good karma.
The Drikung Dharma Surya Center stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Tibetan Buddhism. It provides a sanctuary for spiritual growth, community engagement, and the pursuit of inner peace. It is a place where all are welcome to learn, practice, and cultivate loving kindness.