Venerable Geshe Karma Gyasey

Biography

Venerable Geshe Karma Gyasey is a resident Geshe, teacher and interpreter at Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling, with a long connection to Sera Monastery and the centre. He now holds the distinguished Geshe title in the Tibetan monastic tradition.

Alongside interpretation and support for Geshe-la’s teachings, Geshe Karma contributes to community teaching, guided meditation and the traditional creation of sand mandalas.

Teaching Focus

• Meditation
• Translation
• Sand mandala practice

From the Centre Archives

Karma was born in 1971 in Kham, Tibet. He is the oldest of five children, which meant that from a very young age he had many responsibilities in the home. Karma was destined to become his father’s successor. When Karma was 14 years old and his father was away, his mother (who had a great desire for Karma to become a Monk) and aunty took the opportunity to send him to India to study in the monastery. Karma and three other people tried to escape to Nepal by hiking through the Snow Mountains for many days. Unfortunately, they didn’t succeed. On their second attempt, they hid in the back of a big truck (paying the driver for their passage). This trip was successful. Arriving in Nepal they were helped by the Tibetan Refugee Organisation. After a short stay, Karma continued travelling to reach Sera Monastery in South India. Here he was received by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and chose to become ordained in 1989. Karma continued his study at Sera Monastery, gaining certificates in Advanced Buddhist Studies, in 1998 after 7 years study and in 2002 after 4 years study. In June 2003 Karma came to New Zealand to become Geshe Sangey Thinley’s attendant. He now has New Zealand Citizenship.

Arrival in New Zealand and Community Role: In June 2003, Karma arrived in New Zealand to serve as the attendant to Venerable Geshe Sangey Thinley. As an ordained monk, he quickly became an essential figure in Whangarei, providing guidance, support, and teachings on Tibetan Buddhism. Now a New Zealand citizen, Karma leads meditation sessions and facilitates informal discussions on Buddhist philosophy, offering practical advice on integrating mindfulness into daily life. As both an attendant and interpreter for Venerable Geshe Sangey Thinley, Karma ensures that Geshe-la’s teachings are accessible to all, effectively connecting the traditional Tibetan teachings with the local community.

Connecting the Community with His Teacher: Karma plays a crucial role in bridging the wisdom of his teacher, Venerable Geshe Sangey Thinley, with the Whangarei community. Through his dedicated work, he provides a compassionate and accessible link between the monastery’s teachings and the needs of those seeking spiritual guidance.

Creative and Cultural Contributions: Karma is an expert in the sacred Tibetan Buddhist art of creating sand mandalas, sharing this intricate tradition both locally and internationally in New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Taiwan. This artistic expression helps spread the beauty and symbolism of Tibetan Buddhism, connecting people to its profound meaning.

Involvement at Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling: Karma’s contributions to Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling are multifaceted. In addition to his teaching roles, he actively participates in the center’s events and activities, offering invaluable support to both new and experienced practitioners. Karma is also a familiar face at the Himalayan Trading Post, where he engages with community members, sharing insights into Buddhism and connecting with those interested in the teachings.

A Guiding Presence: Whether interpreting Geshe-la’s teachings, guiding meditation classes, or working at the Himalayan Trading Post, Karma Gyasey embodies the principles of kindness, wisdom, and compassion, making him an indispensable part of the spiritual community in Whangarei and beyond.