Dorje Kasung

The Dorje Kasung is a service organization within Shambhala modeled on the ancient tradition of dharma protectors and drala warriors. Its members are trained in the practice of protecting the space in which practitioners hear and practice the teachings. The protection extends to the teacher who presents the teachings, the teachings themselves, and the community that practices the teachings.

This can manifest in the simple functions of acting as a gatekeeper for the Center to allow a meditation session to be undisturbed. More elaborate practice involves providing and planning for safety at large public events and retreats.

In addition, Dorje Kasung can choose to specialize in psychological crisis intervention and mediation, Center and community safety, or ongoing personal service to lineage holders. As holders of the Pillar of Protection in the community, they play an important role in Center governance.

Dorje Kasung training strengthens our capacity to work with heightened and chaotic situations in our mind or in our environment, and to find non-aggressive means to solve conflicts.

The motto of the Dorje Kasung is “Victory over War”. War represents the struggle created by the three “poisons” identified by the Buddha: grasping, aggression and ignorance. Victory is acknowledging these poisons and meeting them with insight, loving kindness, and lots of space.