Selections from the Writings of Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche (vegetarian), Part 1 of 2 – The Benefits of Saving the Lives of Other Beings

Tibetan Buddhism is a religion with a rich cultural heritage that emerged from a wide range of spiritual practices. Born in Tibet in 1913, Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche left home as a young teen, traveling on foot to study and practice with several highly respected spiritual Masters of the time. As a strict vegetarian himself, Chatral Rinpoche also rescued millions of fish that had been destined for slaughter by purchasing them and then releasing them into a protected area of the Indian Ocean. During his life and since his passing at age 102, Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche is considered among the most highly realized Tibetan Buddhist Masters. Today, we present to you an excerpt from the writings of Chatral Sangye Dorje Rinpoche, “The Benefits of Saving the Lives of Other Beings.” “And countless learned and accomplished masters of India and Tibet Have emphasized the value and importance of benefitting beings. The reasoning behind this is as follows: in this world, Nothing is as dear to someone as his or her own life, So there is no greater crime than taking life away, And no conditioned virtue bring greater merit Than the act of saving beings and restoring their lives. Lamas, officials, monks, nuns, men and women, In all the places over which you have control, Exert every influence and do all within your power To release animals and restore their lives, While encouraging others to do the same.”