Sey Dratsang:

Sey Dratsang, currently situated in Bumthang, Bhutan, is a sacred monastery with deep roots in the Marpalotsawa lineage. Its origins trace back to the original Sey Dratsang in Tibet. Marpa, the founder, was born into the Tashi Denya family in Kunchok village, Sey Lhodrack, in southern Tibet. Marpa’s journey of spiritual pursuit led him across the treacherous Himalayas to India, where he studied under his principal teachers, Naropa and Maitripa, on three separate occasions. It was during these travels that Marpa’s karmic connection with Milarepa unfolded, leading to Milarepa becoming his disciple.

Marpa, recognizing the need for Milarepa to purify himself from past negative karma, subjected him to rigorous trials, including the construction and demolition of stone towers according to Marpa’s exacting specifications. Ultimately, Seykhar Guthok was erected in 1080, marking a significant milestone in their spiritual journey. However, the tower faced neglect over time until Pawo Tsukla Trengwa renovated it in the 1500s, adding ten additional stories with gyaphip.

Since then, Sey Dratsang has stood as an enduring symbol of the Kagyue lineage, weathering various challenges throughout its history. It has embraced both Geluk and Kagyue traditions, reflecting the rich tapestry of Buddhist practice. Khenpos, appointed by Ganden Phodrang, have overseen its spiritual affairs, carrying forward the legacy of wisdom and compassion.

In 1959, amid the tumultuous events in Tibet, the people of Sey migrated to Bhutan, bringing with them ancient holy relics and spiritual artifacts. This migration marked the establishment of Sey Dratsang in Bumthang, where the monastery continues to thrive as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment.

Seykhar Nangten: 

 As descendants of the great spiritual guru Marpa Lotsawa, it is our duty to preserve the traditions associated with Marpa. However, after Tibet was occupied by China in 1959, many Tibetans fled to neighboring countries. Our forebearers managed to bring holy spiritual objects and monuments from Tibet to establish a monastery in Bhutan. Currently, these sacred items are under the custody of the Bhutanese government due to concerns about potential misuse. Unfortunately, we have had no information about them for over three decades since they were taken from Sey Dratsang on August 12, 1989. We request transparency from the Bhutanese government regarding their status. Below is a list of some of the items we possess, including the skull of Sey Dharma Dodhey inscribed with the self-rising letter ‘Aa’ and a conch (Dungkar), Yum Dakmeyma’s earrings and rosary, two seals of Marpa, Dho tama tew(tools used by Milarepa to build Seykhar Guthok), Marpa’s cup, as well as numerous antique thangkas and statues. This is just a partial list. These Nangtens will not be appropriated by any individual, organization, or governmental body, other than Seydratsang and the global Sey community.