An Incomparable Artist's Golden Brush Shocking the World - Calligraphy by H. H. Dorje Change Buddha III

"Great Accomplishment Is Attained Only Through Selflessness" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

The calligraphy of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Wan Ko Yeshe Norbu Holiest Tathagata is not bound by worldly conventions and is devoid of unnecessary flamboyance. It is highly refined and based upon ingenious artistic conception. His Holiness’s strokes are sometimes written in a swift curling style. However, in an instant, His Holiness can express the innocent and natural charm of a child. There is wonder in even common strokes. His calligraphy is naturally graceful, exhibiting depth and brilliance. The calligraphy of His Holiness contains an invisible force that makes the characters seem much grander than they appear on a superficial level. His strokes look harmoniously smooth and unbroken. The Chinese characters may appear strong and vigorous, like a soaring dragon or mighty tiger. They may appear clear and gently elegant, like slowly floating clouds, cranes flying among pine trees, or dancing swans. They may appear simple and unadorned, like the free heart of a child. They are gracefully understated and completely devoid of any mundane quality. 

The calligraphy of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is natural in quality and resonates with the true nature of the universe. A deep power underlies His Holiness’s strokes. The ability of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III to reach such great heights in calligraphy is completely due to His Holiness’s vast knowledge and profound talents. 

There is also a qi jue poem written by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III. A qi jue poem is a four-line poem with seven characters to a line and a strict tonal pattern and rhyme scheme. The phonetic reading of the poem is as follows: “hua gong ri yue li yang tian, xi cheng xi feng liu yue xian, gu peng lai cong ba sheng wang, shi zhi shu qi yi dong can.” One can see that this work has surpassed all traces of the mundane and has transcended all earthly impurities. Its style is lofty and pure. When that poem was written, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was living in the seclusion of an ancient temple. His Holiness used his extraordinary realization to express his thoughts and feelings. The first line expresses that although His Holiness lived alone and secluded in the room of a temple, He governed the universe and bestowed blessings upon living beings. Thus, the first line reads, “hua gong ri yue li yang tian.” The next line, “xi cheng xi feng liu yue xian,” conveys the scene that during the idle month of June H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III bathed in the Buddhastate of coolness while under the scorching sun. His Holiness was free of all worldly cares and attachments, and his body merged with the universe. When friends came, His Holiness heard the horns of their cars, but He had already transcended the world, residing in quietude and non-action. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III kept no notion of the date, and His Holiness’s mind did not abide in anything whatsoever. The people of the world were ignorantly attached to the changing seasons and came in their cars and horses to inform H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III that summer had long passed and the winter was about to end. The ancient Buddha acknowledged this and smiled.

"Qi Jue Poem" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

Each of the rapid cursive writing styles of famous Chinese calligraphers throughout history has its own merits. Additionally, numerous varieties of calligraphy have evolved from the different forms of Chinese characters, such as the regular script, cursive script, official script, and seal character. The most famous calligraphers in the rapid cursive style are Wang, Xizhi, Zhang Huaiguan, and He Shaoji. One of the foremost calligraphers of modern times is Master Youren Yu. However, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is totally different from all other great masters of calligraphy. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III created more calligraphic styles than any other calligraphers in the world. He created childlike form, the dragon and snake form, the semi-cursive script, the small cursive script, the large crusive script, the jade belt script, and the steel bone script. He has developed many calligraphic styles that reflect the quintessence of calligraphic charm.

One can see from this how the calligraphy of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has completely transcended the mundane. It is the calligraphy of a true Buddha. His Holiness’s calligraphic skills have reached such a pinnacle due to His complete realization in the Five Vidyas. In recent years, there are works of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III that have been written in the cursive mode of calligraphy, showing a flowing and unobstructed style, and expressing even more than before the charm of this writing technique. For example, the work Fei Cui Jade (Emerald Jade) expresses the spirit of an immortal or Buddha, thoroughly transcending the three worlds of reincarnation, standing proudly above the five elements of the universe. It is truly calligraphy beyond the category of calligraphy, expressing a feeling that incorporates the whole universe. 

This highest form of art in the rapid cursive style reflects great calligraphic abilities. It is devoid of the constrains of ancient styles that others have rigidly adhered to and is free of the limitations inherent in rubbings from stone inscriptions. Created with an unfettered hand and unattached mind, it has the appearance of a celestial writing accomplished with a childlike mind and steady strokes of the brush. It is naturally attractive and reflects complete calligraphic proficiency. No trace of the mundane can be found. It is a work that exemplifies appealing gracefulness, flowing charm, and brisk elegance.

"Fei Cui (Emerald) Jade" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

His Holiness’s calligraphy of the Chinese characters lang ga luo bu (Treasure of Heaven) excels the writing of calligraphers throughout history. It transcends all traces of worldliness. It expresses deep strength, like that which can break jade. 

Even minute traces remaining after a stroke of the brush have special appeal. At an exhibition displaying the art of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III held in the United States Capital, this calligraphy was exhibited along with the work of art it names. It is in one of the calligraphic styles of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III derived from the childlike style and the running script style. Anyone who understands calligraphy knows that it is extremely difficult to imitate this style. One must possess profound knowledge and cultivation as well as a solid foundation in stone inscriptions. Otherwise, one could not possibly attain such a level of brushwork mastery. "Langga Luobu" means treasure of heaven.

"Treasure of Heaven" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

The style of another calligraphic work called wu wo nai da cheng (No-Self Is Great Accomplishment), conveys the firmness and simplicity of steel and the vigor of a sharp knife. However, these same characters also contain delicate beauty. That calligraphic style truly surpasses styles of the past and present. 

There is profound meaning to the sentence "No-self is great accomplishment." As human beings living in this world, we must first let go of "self". Day and night we should stay far away from selfishness and should derive our happiness from benefiting others. When attachment to the concept of self is absent in our thoughts, we become free of selfishness and greed. Our minds become bright, clear, and free of impediments. We then consider the interests of others and are naturally respected by others. Consequently, we are physically and mentally at ease and are happy. Through this natural process, one can successfully refine one's state of mind to be broad, elevated, and pure until one eventually attains the complete elimination of all defilements.

"No-Self Is Great Accomplishment" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

Another calligraphic style of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is revealed in the writing of the Chinese characters xiao bu dian (Tiny). Such calligraphy shows the childlike innocence of a very old man, and its arrangement expresses the utmost ease and lack of rigid constraints. It is high-class calligraphy that does not even seem to be calligraphy. It is so elegant and refined that it completely transcends the mundane. 

The meaning of these three Chinese characters is as follows. Regardless of how great one's abilities are, even if one's talents are unsurpassed in the entire world or one is the leading authority in a certain field, as a human being, one should develop one's virtue, build one's true abilities, and benefit others. To do this, one must first be modest and open-minded and regard oneself as a very ordinary person, a servant to others, a tiny, insignificant being. One should not think that one is superior to others in any respect. Only by considering the interest of others in such a way one can becomes selfless and be naturally magnanimous. 

This work of calligraphy was created with an artistic mind. It is free of any mental attachment and was written spontaneously rather than with a purposeful, thought-out calligraphic plan. However, just from looking at each stroke, one can clearly see that the artist's calligraphic skills have reached a high level. The artist has attained the superb state of being able to return the mindset of a child. This is a special ability whereby the artist maintains a childlike, innocent mind yet wields the brush with an experienced, mature hand.

“Tiny” by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

Beholding the character sheng (holy) written by His Holiness, one can see that it simultaneously embodies both the softness of ribbons and the innerfirmness of steel. Its inner beauty flows to the surface. 

"Sheng (Holy)" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

Another example is the character fo, which means Buddha. The writing of that character demonstrates that His Holiness has truly attained the summit of calligraphic skills that the ancients extolled in the old saying, “the old pine branch cannot be weighed down by heavy snow; the might of a brush will lift a thousand-pound bronze cauldron.” 

"Fo (Buddha)" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

"Crane Dance" refers to red-crowned cranes dancing. This work of calligraphy was written in 1990 in Sichuan, China. At that time, the government of China at the highest national level was building the one and only museum built by the government in honor of a living person.

It was named the "Museum of Master Wan Ko Yee." However, to people's surprise, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III went to museum only three times all together after its construction was completed. He stated that it was not His museum, that it belonged to everyone, and that He could not use it for His own enjoyment.

Thus, He lifted His brush and wrote the two Chinese characters for the "Crane Dance." He explained that red-crowned cranes tend not to build nests for themselves since they often stay in carious places. When quiet, they frequently engage in meditational observation. When in motion, they frequently dance. Their nature is noble, pure, elegant and simple. They develop their virtue, are not attached to a specific abode, and take care of themselves so as to enjoy their natural lifespan. That is why since ancient times they have been praised for their longevity.

"Crane Dance" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

This work of calligraphy translates as, "To shine like the sun and moon, cultivates peacefulness by being tolerant and patient. To last as long as the mountains and rivers, be a benevolent one of virtue." This couplet was written by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III to masters to lead well the Buddhist practitioners who follow them. Only by acting in accordance with what is written in this couplet can one become a noble person.

The meaning of this couplet is as follows: No matter what our circumstances may be, we must always remember to be tolerant and patient under insult and adversity and cultivate our conduct at all times. Additionally, we should broadly plant seeds of goodness and develop ourselves to be selfless people of noble moral character. This type of morality is as bright as the sun and moon. Those who personality it will receive the respect and love of others.

"To last as long as the mountains and rivers, be a benevolent one of virtue" refers to people who have a noble moral character; who exemplify benevolence; justice, proper manners, wisdom, and faithfulness; who show loving care for others; and who selflessly contribute to others. Their state of realization and virtue will last as long as the mountains and rivers, never fading away.

"To Shine Like the Sun and Moon, Cultivate Peacefulness by Being Tolerant and Patient" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III 

These two characters whose meaning is "Mysteries of Zen" are in the running script style. Written in a free and easy manner, they embody natural grace, dignity, poise, and profound inner power. The exquisite signature "Dorje Change Buddha III" corresponds perfectly with the main body of the calligraphy and presents a consistently well-structured attractiveness. The meaning of these two characters is that Zen contains profound mysteries, and within these mysteries is profound meaning. To enter Zen is to penetrate these mysteries without attachment. In the state of Zen, one is in a boundlessly vase world.

"Mysteries of Zen" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

This calligraphic work has its own unique style based on the artist's skills in stone inscriptions. Whether judging from its overall appearance or the manner of brush application, one can see that every stroke contains the prowess of the artist, manifests an amazing appeal, and reflects the holy and pure mind of the artist. This work of calligraphy was written by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III for the publication of His book, Commentary on the Heart Sutra. "This is How I Determine the Truth" and "Know Yourself and Build Your Character" are predictions contained in the book. More than ten years have passed since then. The predictions did became true. This mastery of time in the universe confirmed that Master Wan Ko Yee, as He was known at the time, is actually the highest leader of Buddhism in the world today, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, the author of this calligraphy.

"This is How I Determine the Truth" by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

In fact, the calligraphy of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has a deep foundation and an internal richness. It embodies the manifold sensations that one could possibly experience in one lifetime. The essence of all things in the universe converges at the tip of His Holiness’s brush. With such a transcendent state of realization, the myriad things of the universe are in the palm of this Buddha. The calligraphy of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is like a treasury. It can be vigorous, smooth, or naturally beautiful. His Holiness incorporates the best techniques of all of the schools of calligraphy. No words can really describe this! If you want to see lively and energetic flourishes of the brush, you can. If you want to see characters with adamantine firmness, you can. If you want to see strength within softness, you can. If you want to see the childlike innocence of a very old man, you can. If you want to see charm, purity, and wonder, you can. In other words, His Holiness’s calligraphic skills have reached the highest degree of proficiency and naturalness that only a Buddha could reach! 

About the highest leader of Buddhism in the world today, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, the author of these calligraphy:

The Explanation of the Buddha’s Title – “H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III”

On April 3, 2008, a solemn and dignified first-publishing ceremony of a fact-recording book entitled H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, which published jointly by the World Buddhism Publishing LLC and the World Dharma Voice, Inc., was held at the Library of the Congress of the United States. The book was also formally accepted into the collection of the Library of the Congress of the United States. Only since that time, did people in the world know that Master Wan Ko Yee, who had been broadly respected by the great masses and who had also been known as Great Dharma King Yangwo Yeshe Norbu, had been recognized by the world’s leaders, regent dharma kings, and great rinpoches of Buddhism through official documents as the third incarnation of Dorje Chang Buddha, who is the primordial Sambhogakaya Buddha of the universe. The Buddha’s name is H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III. Since then, people began to address His Holiness the Buddha by “Namo Dorje Chang Buddha III.” This is similar to the situation that Sakyamuni Buddha’s name was Prince Siddhartha Gotama before attaining Buddhahood. However, after Sakyamuni Buddha had attained Buddhahood, His title changed to “Namo Sakyamuni Buddha.” That is why we now address His Holiness the Buddha as “H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III.”

In particular, on December 12, 2012, the Senate Resolution No. 614 of the United States Congress officially used “His Holiness” in the name addressing Dorje Chang Buddha III (That is to say, “H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III.”) Since then, the title and status of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III has been definitive by nature. And, as a matter of fact, “Dorje Chang Buddha III” is a name used legally in governmental and official legislative documents. Therefore, the previously used respected name and titles such as “Wan Ko Yee,” Great Master, and Great Dharma King no longer exist.

However, the news below was published before the Buddha’s title of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was publicly announced. At that time, people did not know about the true status of His Holiness the Buddha. Therefore, to respect the true history, we still kept the names used before the title of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was legitimately determined in republishing this news. However, all must clearly know that the only legitimate name of His Holiness the Buddha is H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III and all other names used before the legitimate determination no longer exist.

Reference:

International Art Museum of America (IAMA)

The H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Culture and Art Museum