Dorje Kasung

Protector Principle

The Shambhala teachings are presented in a wakeful environment. Understanding and manifesting such an environment is referred to in the Shambhala Lineage as “protector principle.” The practice of protector principle is shared by all Shambhalians, although the group of people who practice protector principle as their main spiritual path is the Dorje Kasung, an essential part of Shambhala society.

The Dorje Kasung formed at the command of the Dorje Dradul, Chogyam Trungpa Rinpoche, in 1977 for the occasion of the 16th Karmapa’s first visit to America. The culture and practice of the Dorje Kasung are modeled on the ancient traditions of dharma protectors and drala warriors, as well as drawing influence from more contemporary military traditions.

Victory over War

Dorje Kasung training strengthens our capacity to work with heightened and chaotic situations (in our mind and 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 meeting these poisons with insight and loving kindness.

In practice, what does the Dorje Kasung actually do? Dorje Kasung are trained in protecting the image of Gesar, smallspace in which practitioners are able to hear and practice the teachings. The protection extends to the teacher who presents the teachings and the community. Dorje Kasung can choose to specialize in psychological and physical crisis intervention, personal and building security, or ongoing personal service to lineage holders.