News
important major sciences of learning which has the potential to benefit and serve as well as get rid of the suffering of the people at large. Rinpoche stressed the significance of not only to
preserve the astrological knowledge but also to revive and develop it further by conducting conferences, discussions and dialogues with experts from different astrological systems. In Tibet, astrology has been deeprooted in the social activities of the common man in solving the problems of everyday life and should be so in Tibetan exile community as well. “It is essential that this field of science does not become the knowledge of only practitioners and academicians but should be more accessible to the common man” said the chief guest. Tibetan indigineous astrology is a culmination of Indian astrology and Chinese astrology. We have to take this opportunity while in exile to exchange views and Men-Tsee-Khang
Jan-Mar 2014
share experiences with Indian astrologers. Collaboration with scientist is also another significant aspect to incorporate for bringing development into this field of science as well. The chief guest said, “it is
also important to work towards making the almanac easier, simpler to use which is understandable by the common mass”. The function concluded with the word of thanks by astrologer Mr. Tenzin Nandak, vice chairman of the organizing committee. The speakers spoke on 8 different topics: • history of Tibetan astro. science (Mr. Sonam Gyaltsen, teacher in College of Higher Tibetan Studies, Sarah) • understanding the external, internal and alternative Kalachakra Tantra and its practice, geomancy & practical application of ‘Sadak Toche’ (Ven. Jadho Rinpoche, Lama Umze of Gyuto Monastery and ex abbot of Namgyal Monastery).
•
comparative study of Tibetan and Vedic astrology (Mr. Tashi Tsering, lecturer Bhot Jyotish Department, Central University of Tibetan Studies, Sarnath, Varanasi). • a practical calculation of Tibetan solar and lunar
eclipses (Aepa Sonam Rinchen, Doctor and Astrologer). • earth-lord of year, month, day & time and its remedy (Geshe Sherap Lundrup, teacher astrology at Menri Monastery). • the importance of puja or rites listed in Tibetan astro. science (Ven. Gedun Tsering, rituals, tantra, philosophical texts expert, Gyuto monastery). • relationship between Tibetan astro. science and medicine (Dr. Tsewang Tamdin, visiting physician to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and chairman of High Level Medical & Astro. Council). The theme of the conference was “The state of practical applications of Tibetan astro. science”. 10 astrologers presented articles on status of Tibetan astro. 4