27/09/2019
A weeklong grand golden brew oblation (Neyphug Za Choe) to extol the solemn appreciation for the protective deities previously took place at Neyphug Monastery from September 7th-14th Sept, corresponding to the 9th day of the 7th month of the Bhutanese calendar.
The tradition of the grand oblation was observed after the beginning of 18th century during which the Neyphug reincarnate was honoured and recognised in the nation's history.
Among the reincarnates of the Neyphug Trulkus, the 4th Neytrul Sangdag Neuten Dorji played an imperative role in shielding the invasions from the north. During that time, the 10th Desi Mipham Wangpo headed the political affairs alongside with Zhabdrung Sungtrul Chogley Namgyal. The reign of Gongsa Mipham Wangpo was disturbed with numerous Tibetan invasions. In the midst of an invasion, Neytrul Sangdag Nueden was called on by Zhabdrung Chogley and Gongsa Mipham to confront the invasion in Punakha.
As soon as Neytrul Sangdag Nueden reached the Punakha Dzong, he prepared for the defense through spiritual means. He constructed a huge effigy or “glud” out of more than two hundred kilograms of wheat flour to repel the threats. This amazed the monks of the Dzong and at the same time worried them about how the gigantic effigy can be offered. Nonetheless, after performing the wrathful ritual of Rahula (Za’) who is one of the main protective deities, the large effigy burnt up spontaneously in the Dzong and gently went out of the main door by itself. Meanwhile, the small effigy went out of the gate and fled to the north. Subsequently after the terrifying spells of power, the Tibetan invasion was driven back. For his boundless contribution to the people and the country, the government offered to Neyphug Trulku the Jazhag Goempa which is one of the main seats of Lam Ngawang Chogyal located at the hills of Punakha and Zhelngo Lhakhang in Paro together with the surrounding arable lands.
This annual event has been observed for more than several centuries, and is offered solemnly to express gratefulness to the protective deities for their continuous support and response. Specifically, the remarkable occasion has greatly inspired Buddhist theoretical formulations also in terms of guarding national security.
The Offering is made as a reminder to continue their Protection and Guidance to all the Dharma followers, especially to Neyphug followers and patrons.
A list of some of the Protectors are:
Gonpo Maning
Mama Aka Zati
Rahula
Gyalchen Kunga
Namsey
Tseringma
Dralha
Nothgin
Geynin
Ghomo
Chungdu
Radrakpa
Sethpey Gyalmo
Dhangla
Kietsub
Mugtsen
Tenmachuni
Chulungpa
Gangtshen
Tseng Ri Gonpo Dhunchu Tsanga
Devotees from Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Haa and Dagala will visit Neyphug Gonpa to pay respects since their ancestors took refuge under the Neytruls and the Protectors.
The monastery welcomes everyone to visit during this special time in order to make wishes, confessions and seek protection from the Protector Deities.
Benefits of attending the Retreat:
1. Helps to clear obstacles created by offending the Protector Deities (Choesung).
2. Smoothen your spiritual path.
3. Heal sickness caused by evil harm.
NEYPHUG ZACHOE is a yearly event held at Neyphug Foundation - Heypu Gonpa Paro.
