The Fiery Razor of Protection: Repelling the Obstacles of
Degenerate Times
March 20–23, 2026
With Venerable Lama Thupten Nima
Hosted by Drikung Dzogchen Community of Vermont
At Sunray Peace Village & Online
These times call forth extraordinary compassion.
Spiritual practice is a source of steadiness and courageous love. Within the Drikung Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, Yamāntaka represents fierce awakened wisdom — clarity that cuts through fear and confusion.
This practice does not withdraw from the pain of the world. It transforms it.
Yamāntaka is regarded as a powerful protector of the path — strengthening inner resilience and cultivating compassionate activity for the benefit of all beings.
The traditional texts teach that during the “five degenerations,” when distraction and turmoil increase, this cycle of practice becomes especially potent. Its blessings are said to become swifter and more responsive in difficult times — like a wind-fanned fire that clears what obstructs growth.
A Rare Opportunity for Personal Practice
Historically, these profound teachings were practiced primarily within large group drupchen (Great Accomplishment) retreats.
During this gathering, Venerable Lama Thupten Nima will offer rare pith instructions on how to engage Yamāntaka as a daily personal practice. Such direct guidance is seldom given publicly.
Whether you have long-standing connection to this lineage or feel newly drawn to its energy of protection and clarity, you are warmly welcome.
About the Retreat Master
Venerable Lama Thupten Nima is a devoted holder of the Drikung Yamāntaka lineage. Born in 1965, he trained during a period of profound upheaval in Tibet and received transmissions from masters including Khenpo Munsel Rinpoche and Garchen Rinpoche.
Recognizing the importance of preserving authentic Dharma practice in the West, Garchen Rinpoche invited Lama Thupten Nima to share these teachings internationally. In 2019, Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche formally appointed him as a Vajra Master of the Drikung lineage.
He brings both ritual mastery and deep humility — embodying fierce clarity grounded in compassion.
Retreat Details
Suggested Donation
$175 In-Person | $150 Online
Scholarships and work-study available.
No one will be turned away for financial reasons.
Advance registration is encouraged, especially for in-person attendance.
Online participants will receive a Zoom link one week prior to the retreat.
To Register