Practices for sick and dying people

Death is at the centre of buddhist philosophy, as it is the most remarkable aspect of impermanence. For us, who have not yet realised our buddha nature, it means suffering. 

In the same way, sickness can produce immense suffering, especially for those illnesses which cannot be cured.

Buddha's teachings constitute a treasure of wisdom and compassion that helps attaining the state of buddhahood, which is beyond birth, old age, sickness and death. There are many stories about people who, through practising an authentic spiritual path, have been able to survive and cure their sickness. 

Practice of Buddhism holds in its essence altruistic activity. One of its aspects is prayers for the sick and dying people. In that respect, every first Saturday of the month, a practice of Sangye Menla (Buddha medicine) dedicated to sick people is organised between 3.30 pm and 5 pm. It happens at the end of a Long-Life practise dedicated to His Holiness the Dalaï Lama and Patrul Rinpoche, and is of course open to anyone wishing to recite the mantra of Sangye Menla, bring a picture or the name of a beloved one, or offer a candle, a flow or simply sit and pray in silence.