Sogyal Rinpoche in disgrace. Part 4: Sangye Nawang

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In july 2017, Sogyal Rinpoche, the spiritual leader of the Tibetan Buddhist organization Rigpa, fell into disgrace, following accusations of sexual and physical abuse. Eight prominent students of Rigpa and Sogyal Rinpoche wrote a letter about the misconduct of their spiritual leader. Sangye Nawang, a buddhist monk and Director Technique for Rigpa International, was one of them. Sangye speaks with Menno Bijleveld through skype, from his hotel room in Bangkok.
The interview is made by Menno Bijleveld. In July 2017, Menno decided to terminate his membership of the Tibetan Buddhist organization Rigpa. It also meant the end of his 25 yearlong relationship with Sogyal Rinpoche, Rigpa’s spiritual leader. Increasing rumours and messages concerning sexual, physical and psychological abuse and his extravagant lifestyle choices have damaged his faith in Sogyal as a spiritual teacher. In his view, a buddhist teacher who preaches love and compassion should also embody these qualities himself.
Following his own feelings of confusion and anger, as well as the struggle of others, he took up the idea to interview several people who are involved in this difficult situation. How do they perceive the actions of Sogyal Rinpoche? How do they cope with the accusations? And to what extend do Sogyals teachings remain valid?
With these series Menno wants to re-evaluate his relationship with buddhism and the dharma.
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