FREEING LIVES

Tsetar – the practice of freeing the lives of animals otherwise destined for slaughter

In the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, the practice of freeing the lives of animals otherwise destined for slaughter, is considered to be a particularly powerful way to accumulate merit and extend one’s lifespan. 

This practice is especially effective when conducted by a great master and accompanied by the appropriate prayers, meditation and rituals. It is important that the animals are freed into an environment that is genuinely conducive to them, thereby extending their natural life span for as long as possible.

Each year Rigpa sponsors the practice of Freeing Lives as conducted by such eminent masters as Kyabje Chatral Rinpoche and his monks, and now by His Eminence Kathok Situ Rinpoche, who are continuing his work after he passed away. Pewar Rinpoche and Orgyen Tobgyal Rinpoche as well as the monastic and the community of lay practitioners at Lerab Ling are freeing the lives of animals on a regular basis.

You can make a meaningful connection to these practices by making an offering here.

For the Benefit of All – The blessings invoked by the practices of Freeing Lives benefit everyone since they are dedicated with the most generous attitude

• For the long life of the great spiritual masters,
• For ourselves who follow an authentic spiritual path,
• For all those who are ill or suffering in the world,
• For those who have died,
• For the peace and harmony of the entire world.

In the USA Rigpa supports Indraloka Animal Sanctuary who, amongst caring for animals of all species, provides primarily a home and care for farm animals that have nowhere else to turn. All of the animals currently in Indraloka’s care have been rescued directly from slaughter or from extreme abuse and neglect from which they would certainly have died. Animals that have been raised in factory farms, or amongst animal hoarders or abusers, are mostly sick, injured, and frightened. Indraloka works diligently to bring each individual animal to full health and free from fear and they lovingly care for them for the rest of their natural lives. You can directly support Indraloka here.