Case Study 4: Dashchoilin Monastery

The following information has been extracted from the Mongolian Buddhists Protecting Nature Handbook which can be downloaded in English and in Mongolian.

Dashchoilin Monastery in Ulaanbaatar is known for conducting ceremonies for companies initiating projects that will have an impact on the environment, in particular ones involving mining. According to N. Batsaikhan, a lama at the monastery, 80% of the companies carrying out land development projects in Mongolia come to Dashchoilin Monastery to ask for such ceremonies in order to placate the local nature spirits. These ceremonies are seen as a means to help ensure the land regenerates. The companies do not however consult the monastery as to the location of their activities or the technology to be employed; the monastery therefore has little real say in those matters that have a direct physical impact on the environment.

Another critical environmental activity of this monastery in central Ulaanbaatar is looking after government and local ovoos. Dashchoilin monks also hold worship rituals for the lords of water springs. In 2005, the monastery planted 1000 trees in Tujiin Nars and in 2006, 1000 trees were planted on the Bogd Khaan Mountain at Ulaanbaatar. In 2007 a further 1000 trees were planted.

Dashchoilin Monastery cooperates with other religious, humanitarian and educational organizations and is a member of the Young Buddhists’ World Union, Asian Buddhists’ Peace Conference and Buddha’s World Union.

N. Batsaikhan explains how environmental protection is an integral part of Buddhist training. “Buddhist religion is based on science. It traditionally focuses on environmental protection. Buddhism teaches not to litter, dig or kill animals and therefore protects the environment. The key activity of Buddhism is to protect the environment.” N. Batsaikhan believes environmental projects should focus on youth. “The key is to raise awareness about environmental protection. Just one schoolchild collecting rubbish outside his school can create awareness in those who pass by.”

Background to the Monastery

In the past, Dashchoilin Monastery hosted numerous scientists and monks from all over Mongolia. In 1990 the Zuun Khuree Dashchoilin Monastery was restored. It now has more than 100 monks, three temples (Tsogchen, Sakhius and Gandanchoinkhorlin) and many rare statues. In 1998, the Zuun Khuree College was created to provide training in general education for the community; including basic Buddhist teachings, Buddhist Philosophy and training in Indian, Tibetan and Mongolian languages.

Contacts

Most Venerable Khamba Lama Ch. Dambajav can be contacted regarding all environmentally related projects. Tel: +976-11-352006

Pages about Mongolian Environmental Wisdom, taken from the Handbook.

Other links to Mongolian Buddhism and the Environment