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Tibetan CalendarsThere are at least two different Tibetan calendars. In popular use is a very old one based on the Phukluk system, but it is not in alignment with observable constellations and seasons. Therefore, we here rely on the Tsurluk calendar, the revision developed by the 3rd Karmapa Rangjung Dorje (1284-1339.) As of mid-March 2010, we are again using the Nalandabodhi calendar prepared under the direction of Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche. It is available from Namse Bangdzo and also from Snow Lion.IntroductionBuddha DaysIn every Tibetan month, certain days are considered right for certain practices, and on those days the effects of positive or negative actions are multiplied 100 times. For example,
Other Special Days of the Month
The festivals (Tib. Du.chen) relate to events in the legendary life of Buddha Shakyamuni (the historical Buddha.) For example, Chotrul Düchen., which occurs during the first 15 days of the Tibetan Buddhist year, commemorates the 15 days on which, in order to increase the merit and aid the devotion of future disciples, the Buddha displayed a different miracle each day. At times such as that, the benefits of practice are greatly multiplied. Special Anniversaries The anniversaries that are observed can depend upon the denomination and lineage to which one belongs. Anniversaries which fall in doubled months are usually celebrated in the second month, although they may be celebrated in the first month if more convenient for the practitioner. [In published calendars, dates of anniversaries are indicated in the repeated month.] Key to Reading This CalendarThe Western day of the month is listed first, and then the Tibetan day in parentheses, eg. (3). When no official observance occurs over a few days, either Western or other, then this editor practices economy of space by grouping days, eg. Month 10, December 2009, 20 - 23 (6 - 8). In the Tibetan system sometimes days are doubled or omitted. Special days falling on a doubled day are usually celebrated on the second day but may be celebrated on the first day if it is more convenient for the practitioner. Special days which fall on missing days are usually celebrated on the preceding day. When it is inauspicious (not a good idea) to hang prayer flags is also indicated. Generally, Monday is not a good day to hang flags and Friday is very good.
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anniversary: From the Tibetan Buddhist perspective, the anniversary of a lama's death is cause for celebration, rather than that of their birth. Sogyal Rinpoche wrote:
Nevertheless, the 17th Karmapa, on the occasion of the celebration at Rumtek Monastery of his 18th birthday in 2006, commented:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ INAUSPICIOUS or UNFAVOURABLE DAYS Though Monday is a good day to hang flags and Friday isvery good, some Inauspicious Days for Hanging Prayer Flags follow.
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