There are several regular significant practice days in Tibetan Buddhism and in Jewel Heart in particular, such as Buddha’s Birthday, Je Tsongkhapa Day, the Dalai Lama’s Birthday, Gelek Rimpoche’s Birthday, and also the twice monthly Tsoh days. Click on the charts below to see them all in one view.
Tsoh litarally means ‘collection’ or ‘gathering’. In most Jewel Heart chapters on every 10th and 25th day of the lunar we meet to celebrate these Tsoh offerings. In some chapters these days have been adjusted to make it possible to observe them on either Satudays or Sundays. See individual chapter calendars for the specific meeting times.
In general, on the 10th day of the lunar calendar we come together to celebrate the tsoh in the context of the Lama Chopa. This is open to everyone.
The Lama Chopa is an incredibly beautiful practice, which richly illustrates and guides us through each stage of the path towards enlightenment. Reciting the Lama Chopa has been said to be one of the best practices for purification. When accompanied by a Tsoh offering, this practices also allows us the opportunity to generate and dedicate great amounts of merit. Again, the Lama Chopa is a practice open to everyone. We welcome anyone interested in developing a better understanding of the principles and motives, which inspire our daily lives.
On the 25th day of the lunar calendar, we celebrate a Mother tantra tsoh. All those Vajrayana practitioners who have received a Heruka and Vajrayogini initiation are invited to participate in the long Sadhana practice/self-initiation and Tsoh. Although the practice is primarily for those indicated, anyone inclined to take part in the Tsoh offering alone is welcome to come and join in at the appropriate time, simply call ahead in order to confirm the timing. There are two mandatory Tsohs per year called Heruka Yab Yum Festival.
These are mandatory for Heruka and Vajrayogini practitioners. They are indicated on the chart below. Tsoh offerings allow us, students and practitioners, a simple yet profound way to repay the kindness, inspiration, and guidance we receive from our teachers. Tsoh offerings can be done individually though it is lovely to come together as a Sangha.
In most Jewel Heart chapters groups of people meet to do the practice together. There are experienced practitioners willing to share their time, experience, insight and unique characters in leading through these celebrations. All Tsoh preparations are bought and set up ahead of time so, we do ask for a monetary donation when attending.
Please click here for:
Actual Tsoh Days 2012-2013 Water Dragon Year
Actual Tsoh Days 2011-2012 Iron Female Rabbit Year
Tsoh Days Lunar Year 2010-2011 Metal Tiger Year
Introduction to the Lama Chopa Tsoh
