Stepping inside Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism, one can almost hear the whispers of ancient mantras. This serene sanctuary, nestled in Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood, offers a unique glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist traditions. Sakya Monastery isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a vibrant center for learning and community. It’s a testament to the vision of His Holiness Jigdal Dagchen Sakya, who dreamed of establishing a seat for the Sakya Khön Lineage in the United States.
Sakya Monastery occupies a beautifully renovated building. It houses a pristine example of a Tibetan Buddhist shrine, one of only a few in North America. The building itself has a fascinating history. Originally built in 1928 as the First Presbyterian Church, it later became a Baptist Church before finding its destiny as Sakya Monastery in 1984. His Holiness Dagchen Sakya saw auspicious signs in the building. Its south-facing entrance, flat roof, and the address number “108,” all held significance in Tibetan Buddhism.
The transformation from church to monastery was a labor of love. Dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly under Rinpoche’s guidance. They dismantled floors, dug foundations for stupas, and painted intricate murals. One such mural depicts the 1000-year lineage of Sakya masters. The name “Sakya,” meaning “pale earth,” originates from the original Sakya Monastery in Tibet, built in 1073 on pale earth. This lineage is carried on at the Seattle monastery, now a vital center for the Sakya School of Tibetan Buddhism in North America.
Sakya Monastery also embraces its role as a non-sectarian religious center. It hosts visits and teachings from leading Lamas of all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery’s educational branch, the Virupa Educational Institute (VEI), further extends its reach. Today, the monastery is led by His Eminence Khöndung Avikrita Rinpoche, His Eminence Khöndung Abhaya Rinpoche, His Eminence Khöndung Asanga Rinpoche, and Her Eminence Dagmo Kusho Sakya. The current Head Lama, Avikrita Rinpoche, was born in Seattle and has received extensive training in India. He carries the torch of the Sakya lineage, ensuring the preservation of Tibetan Buddhist culture and traditions for generations to come. Sakya Monastery invites you to experience the tranquility and wisdom within its walls. It’s a place where ancient traditions meet modern life, offering a path towards spiritual growth and understanding.