Vajra Phurba (also known as Vajrakīla, Phurpa, or Kīla) is a powerful sacred implement and symbol in Vajrayana Buddhism, representing the transformation of negative forces and the realization of enlightened awareness. The term combines two Sanskrit words: Vajra, meaning “diamond” or “thunderbolt,” symbolizing indestructibility and spiritual power; and Phurba (from Kīla), meaning “peg” or “dagger,” symbolizing the act of subduing and stabilizing energy. Yong's Gallery - vajra phurba Vajra Phurba Vajra Phurba (also known as Vajrakīla, Phurpa, or Kīla) is a powerful sacred implement and symbol in Vajrayana Buddhism, representing the transformation of negative forces and the realization of enlightened awareness. The term combines two Sanskrit words: Vajra, meaning “diamond” or “thunderbolt,” symbolizing indestructibility and spiritual power; and Phurba (from Kīla), meaning “peg” or “dagger,” symbolizing the act of subduing and stabilizing energy. Together, they convey the idea of an unbreakable force that transforms ignorance and hostility into wisdom and compassion. Physically, the Vajra Phurba is a three-sided ritual dagger used in esoteric practices and ceremonies. Its design is highly symbolic. The top often bears the faces of wrathful deities such as Vajrakīlaya (Tibetan: Dorje Phurba), an enlightened being embodying the fierce compassion that destroys inner and outer obstacles. The central portion may include a vajra-shaped grip, representing the unshakable stability of enlightenment. The lower part, a triple-edged blade, cuts through the three mental poisons — ignorance, desire, and aversion — which are considered the roots of all suffering. The Vajra Phurba is not a weapon of violence but a spiritual tool. During rituals, practitioners visualize “driving” the phurba into the ground or into the heart of negativity to pin down harmful energies and fix chaotic forces into enlightened awareness. It serves as a reminder that destructive impulses can be transmuted into wisdom through disciplined practice. Ultimately, the Vajra Phurba symbolizes the dynamic balance of compassion and power. It embodies the principle that the same energy that creates conflict can, when transformed by wisdom, protect and liberate. Through this ritual object, Vajrayana Buddhists express the profound truth that enlightenment is not the denial of energy, but its complete and fearless transformation.

To the northeast of Ling Gabu lies the land of the Hor people. The Heavenly Emperor of the Hor Kingdom was named Hor Saiqing, hence the Hor people were also called the Yellow Hor. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. CHAPTER 31 THE WHITE TENT KING SENDS FOUR BIRDS TO SEARCH FOR THE BEAUTY; THE BLACK CROW SPREADS SLANDER AND BRINGS CALAMITY The Northeast of Ling Gabu and the Search for a New Bride To the northeast of Ling Gabu lies the land of the Hor people. The Heavenly Emperor of the Hor Kingdom was named Hor Saiqing, hence the Hor people were also called the Yellow Hor. During the reign of King Jinei Haituo Du, the Yellow Hor Kingdom expanded even further, becoming wealthier and more prosperous. King Jinei Haituo Du had three sons. Because they lived in black, white, and yellow tents, they were called the Black Tent King, the White Tent King, and the Yellow Tent King. The three brothers grew up quickly and were all highly skilled in martial arts. Among them, the second son, the White Tent King, was the most talented. In the Year of the Fire Dragon, the third year of Gesar’s northern demon-slaying campaign, tragedy struck the White Tent King when his wife, Gana’s Gas, suddenly passed away. Unable to endure the loneliness, the White Tent King gathered his ministers to discuss finding a new bride—someone renowned as the most beautiful woman in the world. After deliberation, the ministers decided to send the talking birds raised in the palace—a dove, a peacock, a parrot, and a crow—to search the world for a woman who could become the new queen. The four birds flew out as instructed. When they reached a fork in the road, the parrot said, “We four birds may be sent out like arrows, but we’re merely following orders. To find a woman who can be the White Tent King’s bride, the stepmother to Prince Lawu, the mistress of the Hor Kingdom, and the mother of the people—how can such a woman be found? Even if we find her, she may not agree to marry him. If she refuses, the king will send troops to seize her, and countless lives may be lost. When that happens, it will all be blamed on us four birds. I say we shouldn’t take on this thankless task.” “But the king sent us. How will we explain ourselves if we return empty-handed?” said the always gentle dove, worried about failing the mission. “Exactly! What will we do?” asked the beautiful peacock, spreading its colorful tail feathers in anxiety. “I think we should all go back to our homelands,” the parrot suggested. “The dove can return to Gana, the peacock to the Yellow River, and I’ll go back to Menyu. As for the crow—it has no homeland, so it can settle wherever it likes.” The dove and peacock agreed, happily returning to their homes. But the crow refused to follow the parrot’s advice. Watching the other birds leave, the crow felt both anger and joy. It was angry because the more favored birds—the gentle dove, the beautiful peacock, and the clever parrot—had abandoned the king’s mission, despite being treated far better than the crow. While they were fed fine grains, the crow was given only dregs. Yet the crow was also pleased, for their departure gave it a chance to earn the king’s favor. Determined to find the most beautiful woman in the world, the crow set off with renewed resolve. The crow flew tirelessly, traveling from city to city, region to region, north to south, east to west. But no matter how hard it searched, it couldn’t find a woman who met its standards. One day, the crow arrived in the beautiful land of Ling. Tired and frustrated, it decided that if it couldn’t find the woman here, it wouldn’t return to the Hor Kingdom. Failure meant the crow would face punishment for the entire group of birds, and the White Tent King might even take its life. Ling was a stunning place, where heavenly dragons sang, cuckoos chirped melodiously, and larks filled the air with sweet songs. The crow, enchanted by this land, forgot its worries and flew freely. Without realizing it, it arrived at the Auspicious Victory Palace in the city of Dazi. Before the precious turquoise pavilion, the crow could no longer fly. It exclaimed in awe, “The most beautiful woman in the world is here!” This was the residence of Gesar’s queen, Zhumuo. The Lion King had left for the northern lands to slay demons three years ago and hadn’t returned. During these three years, Zhumuo had lost interest in dressing up. However, that day was an auspicious day in Ling. The stars in the sky, the time on earth, and the sun above were all exceptionally bright and beautiful. Zhumuo felt a rare sense of happiness. She recalled how Gesar had promised before leaving, “If I return early, it will be within two years; if I’m late, it won’t exceed three years. No matter what, I’ll return within three years.” Now, three years had passed. Zhumuo thought, Perhaps the king will return today. I should prepare myself to welcome him. She called her maids, Arongji and Lirongji, to help her wash her hair and dress up. Afterward, the three of them sat outside the pavilion, admiring the colorful clouds in the sky, the distant green mountains, the nearby trees, and the singing birds. Zhumuo’s rare good mood lifted the spirits of her maids, who happily shared cheerful stories to keep her entertained. At that moment, the crow arrived. It was stunned by Zhumuo’s beauty. Her radiant complexion outshone even the most vibrant lotus flower, and her elegance surpassed that of celestial maidens. Overwhelmed with joy, the crow sang: I spread my iron-black wings, Flying through heaven and earth. I’ve seen countless beautiful worlds, And countless lovely maidens, Yet not one compares To this woman’s unmatched beauty. The crow exclaimed, “Ah, Lady Zhumuo, your beauty is renowned, but seeing you today, I realize the truth exceeds the tales. You are Gesar’s queen, yet you sit alone in an empty room. What a pity, what a waste of your youth to live in sorrow. I am the envoy of the Hor White Tent King, searching for a bride for my king. A woman as beautiful as you would be the perfect match for him. Our king is young, strong, skilled in combat, and rules over twelve thousand households, with countless cattle and sheep. If you become his queen, you’ll enjoy wealth and luxury far beyond living here alone.” Zhumuo’s Anger and the Crow’s Success The crow spoke proudly, but Zhumuo, filled with anger, was furious. What bad luck to see this wretched bird on such a joyous day. She turned to her two companions and sang: Hey! Hey! My dear companions, We’ve herded lambs together since childhood, We’ve picked flowers together since we were young. On the land of Ling Gabu, Birds like this have never been seen. Why has this crow appeared today? Did you hear what it said? That vile demon bird said: “Zhumuo of the Galo family, Your husband is alive, yet you live as if widowed. Why stay in Ling Gabu? Why not go to the land of Hor? Would you like to be the bride of the White Tent King? Would you like to be the stepmother of Prince Lawu? Would you like to be the mistress of the Hor Kingdom? Would you like to be the mother of the Hor people? Across the roads of the world, Across Han and Tibetan lands, Compared to the prosperous Hor Kingdom, No place can match its splendor.” You wretched demon crow, Spreading bad omens by day, Bringing evil dreams by night, Spreading disasters wherever you go, Creating bad luck wherever you land! After singing, Zhumuo grabbed a handful of ashes and threw it at the crow. However, the ashes missed the crow and instead knocked her turquoise hair ornament to the ground. The crow quickly picked up the ornament and, flapping its wings, flew straight to the Hor Kingdom. Zhumuo and her two maids, Arongji and Lirongji, concealed the incident and didn’t tell anyone about it. Meanwhile, in the Hor Kingdom, the White Tent King grew increasingly anxious. It had been one hundred days since the four birds were sent out, yet none had returned. The king ordered his minister, Sinba Meruze, to go outside the city and investigate, hoping to hear good news about a beautiful woman. On this day, Sinba climbed to the highest point in Yaze City and looked in all directions. He saw no sign of the dove, peacock, or parrot, but noticed the crow perched on the top of a tall flagpole. Sinba asked the crow if it had brought good news for the king, but the clever crow, fearing Sinba might steal the credit, replied, “Sinba! I have nothing to say to you.” With that, the crow flew straight to the palace, landing beside the king’s throne. It placed Zhumuo’s turquoise hair ornament before the White Tent King. Seeing the sparkling, jade-green gem, the king knew the crow had found something significant and immediately asked, “Crow, you’ve worked hard. Quickly, tell me—where is the beautiful woman?” The black crow, feigning exhaustion, appeared hungry and thirsty. Before answering, it began to sing a song, criticizing the dove, peacock, and parrot: If you don’t know this place, It’s called the “City of a Thousand White Peaks,” Or the “City of Red Towers,” Or the “City of Ten Thousand Armor Bearers.” This is the capital of the White Tent King. Oh mighty king with the tiger hat, Hear my report as your loyal envoy: The dove, peacock, and parrot, Along with me, the crow, Were all raised by you as soul birds. The snow-white dove ate white rice, The blue peacock ate barley, The colorful parrot ate five grains, But I, the crow, was fed only dregs. Now the dove has returned to Gana, The peacock has flown back to the Yellow River, And the parrot has returned to Menyu. None of them fulfilled your mission, None repaid your kindness, They betrayed your trust and loyalty. I, the humble black crow, Never forgot the White Tent King. I traveled far and wide, To every land, to every region. Across the small kingdoms of the world, Across the mountains of Han and Tibet, Though languages and customs differ, And family names are not the same, While there are many beautiful women, None are fit to be your queen, None are fit to be the stepmother of the prince, None are fit to be the mistress of your kingdom, None are fit to be the mother of your people. Hearing the crow’s account, the White Tent King was furious at the other birds and felt an overwhelming urge to punish them. To reward the crow, he ordered his guards to slaughter a sacred white sheep as a feast for it. He then asked the crow again, “Where is the beautiful woman?” The crow shook its head and refused to answer. The king, desperate, ordered the sacrifice of a long-haired sacred bull. Still, the crow shook its head, dissatisfied with the offering. Finally, the king, determined to please the crow, had a golden horse sacrificed for it. Only then did the crow stop demanding more. The Crow’s Report Seeing the White Tent King’s furious expression and murderous gaze, the crow dared not bargain anymore. It immediately sang: I, the crow, flew to Ling Gabu, To that dragon-coiled, tiger-crouched land. Heavenly dragons soared and sang in the sky, Cuckoos chirped joyfully, Larks trilled melodiously. In the magnificent palace, On the square royal carpet, Beneath the nine-pillared turquoise canopy, Lives a woman named Zhumuo, Truly the most beautiful woman in the world. Her skin is like white silk, Her flesh as radiant as red satin, Her eyes are as sharp and bright as a hawk’s, Her eyebrows curve like crescent moons. A single step forward is worth a hundred horses, Like a celestial maiden dancing gracefully, Even a hundred horses could not compare. A single step back is worth a hundred purple mules, Like soaring clouds across the sky, Even a hundred mules could not compare. Her thick black hair is worth a hundred oxen, Each strand like a string of pearls, Even a hundred oxen could not compare. Her smile is worth a hundred sheep, Her tongue tip forms the sacred “Ah” shape, Even a hundred sheep could not compare. She is the pinnacle of earthly beauty, The ornament of all daughters of the land. Among the women of Ling, She is the finest of them all. In winter, she is warmer than the sun, In summer, she is cooler than the moon. Her scent surpasses flowers, Bees swarm around her in delight. Though there are countless beauties in this world, Only she is worthy of the king. She was once Gesar’s beloved queen, Known as the renowned Zhumuo. Gesar ventured north to slay demons, Leaving her behind to guard an empty room. Don’t miss this chance to take her, Her turquoise hair ornament is proof, And only I, the crow, am truly loyal. “Wonderful! The gods have granted me this opportunity. I’ll bring her here immediately!” exclaimed the White Tent King. He was so eager to have Zhumuo by his side that he didn’t want to listen to any more of the crow’s chatter. The White Tent King’s Ambition and Sinba’s Advice The White Tent King didn’t want to hear any more of the crow’s chatter. He was eager to bring Zhumuo to his side immediately. Minister Sinba Meruze, who overheard the conversation between the king and the crow, grew uneasy. He thought: Waging war against Ling Gabu without cause not only violates the heavens’ compassion but will also bring disaster to the people. Though Ling Gabu is small, the Lion King Gesar is incredibly powerful. How can we win an unjust war? Why can’t the king see this? Hoping to stop the king from making a mistake, Sinba advised, “My king, we have lived in peace with Ling Gabu for many years without conflict. Is it worth starting a war over one woman? Even if you capture Zhumuo, do you think the Lion King will let this go? Please reconsider your decision.” Sinba continued, “Perhaps we should send the disaster bird to investigate Ling Gabu before taking any action.” But the White Tent King dismissed Sinba’s advice. He was entirely focused on obtaining Zhumuo and said, “Our Yellow Hor Kingdom is stronger than Ling Gabu in every way—land, soldiers, and leadership. That poor boy Gesar has no real skills. If we strike first, we will surely win. We’ll wipe out the Ling people completely, and no misfortune will come upon us. However, sending the disaster bird to investigate is still a good idea.” The disaster bird was ordered to fly to Ling Gabu and scout its current condition. Zhumuo’s Unease and Nightmare Meanwhile, in Ling Gabu, Zhumuo had been feeling uneasy ever since her encounter with the crow and the loss of her turquoise hair ornament. Her maids, Arongji and Lirongji, were also anxious. They noticed that their queen, who had recently shown signs of joy, now looked even more worried. That night, Zhumuo had a terrible dream. She dreamed of mountains collapsing, floods engulfing Ling Gabu’s homes, and cattle and sheep being swept away. In her nightmare, she saw demonic hawks flying chaotically, wolves descending from the mountains, horses scattering, and livestock being taken away. Zhumuo woke up in terror, drenched in sweat. She remembered the dream that Meza had once told her about and how Meza had been captured by the black demon afterward. Zhumuo thought: Could a disaster be about to strike Ling Gabu? It must be! And this disaster may fall upon me. “Oh, my king, it’s been three years. Why haven’t you returned?” Overwhelmed by fear, Zhumuo missed Gesar more than ever. She woke her maids and told them about her dream. Her maids were horrified. “Queen, this is terrible! Meza had a nightmare before she was taken. A few days ago, the black crow came to propose for the Hor King. Could it be that the Hor Kingdom is planning to invade and take you?” The Disaster Bird and Ling Gabu’s Alarm The queen and her maids were filled with panic and unease. At that moment, the massive disaster bird from the Hor Kingdom arrived at the sacred grounds of Ling Gabu, where heavenly dragons roared. It landed on the top of the nine-pillared turquoise canopy. Suddenly, a sturdy golden pillar cracked, the strong ropes holding the canopy snapped, and the ruby pulley used to tighten the ropes broke apart. The entire canopy began to sway dangerously. Zhumuo rushed to the entrance and saw an incredibly hideous and ferocious bird perched on the canopy. She shouted, “Brave warrior Yuda! Come quickly! There’s an ugly bird on the roof of the canopy. Can you shoot it down?” Yuda fetched his bow and arrows, but the dazzling radiance of the disaster bird’s feathers intimidated him, and he didn’t dare to shoot. Instead, he went inside the tent and looked at the bird’s twelve tail feathers through the skylight. He shot an arrow, knocking the tail feathers to the ground, but the disaster bird flew away. Afterward, the disaster bird thoroughly scouted Ling Gabu, flying all over the land. Once its mission was complete, it returned to the Hor Kingdom. Zhumuo turned to her maid Lirongji and said, “First, the black crow came to propose, and now the disaster bird has come to spy on us. This can’t be a good sign. Go and report this to Chief Steward Rongchachagen immediately.” Having witnessed these ominous signs alongside her mistress, Lirongji was also deeply worried. She hurried to the steward’s tent and reported everything about the black crow and the disaster bird. However, the steward dismissed her concerns, saying, “How could such things happen in this dragon-coiled, tiger-crouched land? There’s an old saying: ‘Mules can’t run far, and women’s words can’t be trusted.’ The divine tribes of Ling are as calm as solidified yogurt. Why are you stirring up trouble like blood in water? What good will this do?” Lirongji replied, “There’s another saying: ‘The sun will rise because the heavens push it forward.’ I’m not stirring up trouble. The queen sent me to deliver this message. She’ll be here shortly. Let her decide what to do. In the meantime, please gather the divine tribes for a meeting.” Hearing this, the steward immediately ordered the drums to be beaten and the conch shells to be blown. Letters were sent out like snowflakes falling from the sky, and messengers flew like birds, summoning the people of Ling Gabu. They were instructed to gather at Datang Chamotan at sunrise the next day. Notes Saiqing : Means "big yellow"; Hor Saiqing refers to "Yellow Hor." Xinba : Originally means "butcher," but here it refers to a hero.

I met Yongzhu Tashi Rinpoche in 2006 while working alone in Shanghai. From our perspective, he dedicated each day to contributing to the Dharma, as if he were racing against time. As his disciple, we witnessed his greatness firsthand. He not only helped countless children with their education but was also fervently committed to the propagation of King Gesar's culture. In Loving Memory of Yongzhu Tashi Rinpoche of Shechen Monastery To Yongzhu tashi Rinpoche I met Yongzhu Tashi Rinpoche in 2006 while working alone in Shanghai. From our perspective, he dedicated each day to contributing to the Dharma, as if he were racing against time. As his disciple, we witnessed his greatness firsthand. He not only helped countless children with their education but was also fervently committed to the propagation of King Gesar's culture. Because our master was younger than me, I mistakenly believed there would always be opportunities to follow him. His passing in 2024 left me heartbroken. Yet, we have not forgotten his teachings. we determined to continue following in our master's footsteps for the rest of our life. This website is a tribute to his legacy and a platform for sharing the teachings and values he embodied. Through this site, we hope to inspire others and keep his spirit alive in our community. This is a way for us to ensuring that his impact continues to resonate. Your Disciple 2024/12/21 Year of Wood Dragon Your presence has illuminated our life, guiding us to find direction and purpose 2020-2024 2015-2019 2010-2015 About Yongzhu rinpoche During the era of the ancient Tibetan Empire, when Princess Wencheng traveled from the Tang Dynasty to marry into Tibet, she used the art of geomancy to survey the Tibetan landscape. She observed that Tibet's terrain resembled a supine demoness (Rakshasi). The specific location of this area corresponded to the palm of the demoness's left hand. Therefore, King Songtsen Gampo specially constructed several border temples here to subdue the demoness. Among them was Gyala Juekong Monastery, which was built in this area. Ancient Tibetan texts also record that during the reign of King Trisong Detsen and his heirs, the Gyala Juekong Monastery was renovated and expanded, including its assembly halls and Buddha statues. It was in this sacred and extraordinary place that the reincarnated tulku, Yongzhu Tashi Rinpoche, was born. His father was named Nianrong Jiarang Axiao, and his mother was named Yangzong. He was born in 1983, the Water Pig Year of the Tibetan calendar (the 17th Rabjung cycle), on the 15th day of the waxing moon in the Month of Miracles (the first month of the Tibetan calendar). When he reached the age of nine, his father took him to visit Lama Pema, a recluse practicing strict precepts and meditation at Ahde Monastery. At that time, Lama Pema prophesied that the child would face a major life-threatening obstacle. If he were ordained as a monk, he would soon become a virtuous person dedicated to benefiting all sentient beings and spreading the Dharma. Following the lama's prophetic instructions, his father immediately arranged for Yongzhu Tashi Rinpoche to be ordained and enter the Buddhist path. Subsequently, the dakini Khandro Kaje Angmao, consort of the Dolotsongma Yeshe Tulku of Nianrong Aopeng Monastery, formally bestowed upon him the name Yongzhu Tashi. Shechen Monastery Situated in Dege County, emerged as a central hub for a vast network encompassing nearly 160 monasteries. Its establishment dates back to 1695, initiated by Rabjam Tenpai Gyaltsen under the directive of the Fifth Dalai Lama. The primary mission was to establish a foundation for the Nyingma tradition in the region of Kham. This sect, known as the "ancient" tradition, is one of the oldest schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery quickly ascended to prominence, becoming one of the six key monasteries of the Nyingma tradition. In the 20th century, the monastery continued to play a critical role in the Buddhist spiritual landscape, with figures such as Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and Chogyam Trungpa receiving teachings there. Their contributions to Buddhism, particularly in the West, have helped to cement Shechen Monastery's legacy as a pivotal institution in the global Buddhist community.

Tibetan dancing masks are an integral part of Tibetan Buddhist culture, primarily used during ritualistic Cham dances. Cham, a sacred form of dance performed by monks or lay practitioners, is an important element of Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies, particularly during major festivals like Monlam (Great Prayer Festival) or Losar (Tibetan New Year). Yong's Gallery - Dancing Mask Dancing Mask Tibetan dancing masks are an integral part of Tibetan Buddhist culture, primarily used during ritualistic Cham dances. Cham, a sacred form of dance performed by monks or lay practitioners, is an important element of Tibetan Buddhist ceremonies, particularly during major festivals like Monlam (Great Prayer Festival) or Losar (Tibetan New Year). These dances and their accompanying masks serve both spiritual and cultural purposes, embodying Buddhist teachings, warding off evil spirits, and invoking blessings for the community. The masks themselves are highly symbolic. They usually represent Buddhist deities, wrathful protectors, mythical beings, or spirits. For example, Yamantaka, a wrathful deity, symbolizes the conquest of death and ignorance, while Mahakala, another protector deity, represents the destruction of obstacles to spiritual growth. By donning these masks, performers are believed to channel the energy of the beings they represent, transforming the dance into a spiritual practice. Each mask is designed with specific symbolic features, such as horns, fangs, or a third eye, to reflect the divine attributes of the deity or spirit it portrays. The vivid colors and intricate designs of the masks are also deeply meaningful, with each hue representing specific aspects of Buddhist philosophy—for instance, white symbolizing purity, red for power, and black for protection. Crafted from materials like papier-mâché, wood, or clay, Tibetan dancing masks are works of art in their own right. They are often elaborately painted with bright colors and adorned with details like gold leaf, brocade, or even semi-precious stones. The creation of these masks is considered a sacred act, often involving prayers and rituals to imbue them with spiritual significance. Monasteries or skilled artisans typically make the masks, ensuring that both the artistic and religious aspects are respected. The Cham dance, in which these masks are used, is more than a simple performance—it is a form of meditation in motion. The dances tell stories from Buddhist scriptures, including tales of good triumphing over evil, the impermanence of life, and the path to enlightenment. Through elaborate choreography and the use of masks, the performers bring these teachings to life, making them accessible to the lay audience. The movements are often slow and deliberate, accompanied by traditional Tibetan instruments like drums, horns, and cymbals to create an otherworldly atmosphere. The dance is believed to purify the environment, drive away negative energies, and bring blessings to both the participants and the spectators. In Tibetan culture, dancing masks and Cham dances also play a crucial role in preserving their rich spiritual and artistic heritage. They are not only religious rituals but also a way to pass down Buddhist teachings and cultural traditions through generations. In summary, Tibetan dancing masks are a profound fusion of art, spirituality, and storytelling, embodying the deep-rooted connection between Tibetan Buddhism and its cultural expression.

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The horse race was in full swing. Chao Tong, riding the Yuja horse, was leading the pack, while Joru, on his steed Jiangga Peibu, was trailing behind. Jiacha, whipping his horse forward, occasionally turned back to look at Joru, but Joru paid him no attention. Instead, Joru appeared to be enjoying the beautiful scenery, riding leisurely as if he were on a casual stroll. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 21: Defeating Three Demons, the Divine Heir Rides Across the Racetrack; Testing the Crowd, Jue Ru Probes Loyalty and Betrayal The Race, The Monsters, and Joru’s Conflicts The horse race was in full swing. Chao Tong, riding the Yuja horse, was leading the pack, while Joru, on his steed Jiangga Peibu, was trailing behind. Jiacha, whipping his horse forward, occasionally turned back to look at Joru, but Joru paid him no attention. Instead, Joru appeared to be enjoying the beautiful scenery, riding leisurely as if he were on a casual stroll. The grand horse race was unprecedented in scale. As the racers reached the halfway point, Joru instinctively nudged his horse’s side with his legs, and his steed sped up slightly. The other competitors whipped their horses harder, pushing forward with all their might. Chao Tong and his Yuja horse remained firmly in the lead. At that moment, a small cloud resembling a sheep appeared in the sky. Strangely, it began to grow larger and larger, darkening the heavens. A clap of thunder split the sky, and it seemed as though hail was about to fall. Was this sudden change due to the unpredictable mountain weather, or were the gods displeased with the horse race? Neither. It was the work of three demonic spirits from Ayudi Mountain: Tiger-Head, Leopard-Head, and Bear-Head. The Tiger-Head demon grumbled, “Ling Gabu is holding a horse race today. All the human legs bend backward, their knees stick out forward, and their horses kick up dust and manure everywhere. They’re polluting our mountain!” “That’s right! They’re not only shaking the snowy mountains but also ruining the grasslands!” added Bear-Head, speaking clumsily but clearly agitated. Leopard-Head, always sharp-tongued, chimed in, “I don’t understand how the neighboring mountain gods tolerate these humans messing around here. If we don’t teach them a lesson today, anyone will think they can trample our sacred grounds! The merchants, horsemen, nobles, and even poor shepherds will stop offering us tributes. This is unacceptable!” The three demons agreed to retaliate. They summoned their dark army, covered the sky with clouds, and sent thunderbolts to announce their fury. Just as they were about to unleash a hailstorm, they suddenly felt uneasy. Joru had already noticed their actions. How could Joru, the son of the gods, allow demons to disrupt the grand horse race? If the three demons were not subdued, the people of Ling Gabu would suffer endlessly. In an instant, Joru threw his divine lasso into the air, capturing the three demons and binding them in front of his horse. Realizing they were in the presence of a divine child, the demons immediately lost their power. They knelt down repeatedly, begging for mercy and pledging their loyalty to Joru. Joru commanded, “Dismiss the clouds immediately, return to your mountain, and await my orders. From now on, you must not harm humans again. If you disobey, I will not forgive you.” The clouds vanished instantly, and the sunlight became brighter and more radiant than before. A celestial maiden from the Mamei region appeared and presented Joru with three treasures: a crystal vial filled with divine nectar, a key to unlock the treasures of the ancient Hot Mountain, and an auspicious silk scarf adorned with eight symbols. Joru accepted the treasures and resumed the race. Joru’s Encounter with Gulu and Others In an instant, Joru caught up with the hunchback Gulu, who was trailing at the back of the race. Joru, seeing Gulu struggling with his hunched posture, found it amusing and decided to tease him: "I am Joru, standing tall and proud, You are Gulu, bent and bowed. Why don’t we team up for this race, Together we’ll run at the same pace. If we win, we’ll split the prize in two, If we lose, we’ll share the debt too." Hearing this, Gulu became agitated. He looked at Joru, with his poor and ragged appearance, and scoffed at the idea of Joru winning anything. “Team up with him?” Gulu thought. “What he really means is that he wants me to share his debt!” With a stern face, Gulu said, “Don’t even think about it! Gulu isn’t foolish enough to pay your debts for no reason. We’ve already lost hope of winning anything. If the gods help me win, I won’t share it with you. And if you win, I wouldn’t even want your prize, let alone repay your debts! You and I are as incompatible as snow and fire. There’s no way we can work together.” Joru, still smiling, replied, “Gulu, I only mean well. I see you struggling with your hunchback, and I genuinely want to help you. Are you sure you won’t regret your words?” But Gulu laughed mockingly and said, “Help me? Regret? Hah! You don’t know who I am, do you? I, Gulu, am the sacred camel of Ling Gabu. Without me, even the gods would decline. I am the prosperous camel of the land, bringing wealth to all. And I am the lucky camel of Ling Gabu—without me, blessings would wither away. Haven’t you heard the song sung by the people of Ling Gabu?” "The crescent moon bends beautifully, Decorating the azure sky so gracefully. The bountiful grain bends with pride, Filling the barns, feeding far and wide. The rainbow bends across the vast blue, Linking heaven and earth with its brilliant hue. A man bends his back to show his might, A woman bends hers to gain insight. Weapons bend for fierce combat, Roads bend for racers like that." Gulu continued smugly, “Joru, compared to wealthy men, I may not be much. But compared to you, I’m rich! I have nine oxen, nine plots of farmland, nine sons, and nine daughters. In spring and winter, my wine never runs out, and in summer and autumn, my dairy is abundant. How could I ever team up with someone like you? I absolutely refuse!” Joru chuckled and replied, “Gulu, do you think I don’t desire the golden throne and Zumu? Of course, I do. But Zumu is so perfect, and I, Joru, am so poor. The heroes competing for her are all so powerful—I don’t even know what to do. This morning, I heard Zumu say that no matter who wins the prize, it must be shared between Gulu and me. That’s why I told you the truth. When I win, will you really refuse to take your share? Won’t you regret it later? Let me tell you, Gulu, whether I participate in the race or not, the treasures of Jialuo, Zumu as my wife, and the throne of Ling Gabu are all destined to be mine. But since you don’t want to team up, we’ll go our separate ways. Just don’t follow behind my horse. Be careful—it might kick you!” Joru then sang, teasing Gulu further: "A curved blade cuts its wielder’s hand, A bent horn blinds the eye on command. A crooked arm punches its own face, A hunchback’s mouth bites its leg in disgrace. An overturned jar holds no water, A bent rainbow is no robe for a daughter. A twisted body comes from disease, When it flares, it robs your ease. A twisted heart reflects selfish desire, Too much greed turns one into a liar. A hundred climb the mountain steep, The hunchback bends like legs for feet. A hundred stand tall, proud and straight, The hunchback lies as if it’s too late. Brothers race forward with ambition, Gulu rides backward in opposition!" Joru whipped his horse and sped forward. Gulu, furious, trembled with rage. He tried desperately to straighten his back and argue with Joru, but no matter how hard he tried, his hunched back remained. “That wretched Joru!” Gulu thought. “Even if I can’t win the prize, I’ll make sure he doesn’t either!” Enraged, Gulu began whipping his white-faced camel recklessly. The camel, confused and frightened, bucked and swayed, blocking Joru’s path. Joru laughed at Gulu’s foolishness. He gently tapped his horse’s ear. The divine steed understood immediately, kicked Gulu’s camel into a ditch, and swallowed Gulu whole. Inside the horse’s body, Gulu found himself in what looked like a golden temple with glowing red walls and shining statues. Just as Gulu knelt to pray, the horse spat him out, along with a pile of dung, onto the ground. Gulu landed on the dung unharmed. His camel licked his hand, and Gulu stood up, trembling and disheartened. Watching Joru disappear into the distance, Gulu sighed deeply, mounted his camel, and turned back. Joru’s Encounters with Beautiful Oro and Others The divine steed Jiangga Peibu carried Joru forward like the wind, overtaking one excellent horse after another and surpassing group after group of racers. Soon, Joru caught up with one of the three handsome men of Ling Gabu, Oro. Joru, seeing that there was still plenty of time, patted Jiangga Peibu’s neck. The steed immediately understood that its master wanted to chat and slowed its pace. Joru observed Oro closely. Oro was indeed handsome: a glowing forehead, rosy cheeks, pearl-like teeth, and starry eyes. He wore a plain white silk robe and rode a “Tibetan Snow Mountain” horse. He was a striking figure, like a youthful nobleman dressed in radiant silver. Joru admired Oro silently but wondered whether this beautiful young man’s heart was as good as his appearance. He decided to test him. “Hey, handsome Oro, do you know who I am?” Joru called out. Oro was so focused on the race that he hadn’t noticed Joru watching him. Hearing Joru’s voice, he turned and immediately recognized him. “Of course, Joru! The people of Ling Gabu may not know every lion in the land, but no one fails to know you!” Oro replied with a smile. “Oh? Then can I ask you for a favor?” “Of course, just tell me!” Oro answered without hesitation. “Look at the two of us. We are so different! You are so handsome, and I am so plain. You are so wealthy, and I am so poor. We live under the same sky and share the same earth—why should there be such differences? Shouldn’t we be equals? Will you help me become as handsome and rich as you?” Joru asked. He didn’t look at Oro while speaking, but when he finished, he stared at Oro intently. Oro thought to himself: “This Joru is a divine being with great power and wisdom. He is said to be a Bodhisattva who took human form to save all beings. If Ling Gabu is fortunate enough to have him, he could lead not only humans but also gods and spirits. His current disheveled appearance and his song must be a test for me.” “Well… of course, I’m willing to help you. After the race, come to my home, and I’ll share half of my wealth with you,” Oro replied, hesitating only slightly but remaining generous. “But I can’t wait that long,” Joru said. “Then what can I give you right now? Hmm… how about this? I’ll give you my precious ceremonial hat,” Oro offered. Joru, knowing the hat’s extraordinary value, had already seen that Oro’s heart matched his outward beauty. However, he wasn’t sure if Oro truly understood the significance of the hat or if he was just offering it as an ordinary gift. Joru pretended to be unimpressed. “What’s the use of a hat? Can it make me handsome or rich?” “Joru, don’t you know the value of this hat? It’s a treasure from our family shrine. You want to be handsome? Physical beauty doesn’t fill an empty stomach. True beauty isn’t just about appearance—it comes from within. Haven’t you heard the song? ‘Youthful boys are handsome with arms, Without courage, they’re just cowards. Beautiful girls shine in fine clothes, Without wisdom, they’re nothing but fools.’ “This hat may not make you more handsome, but it can give you something far greater,” Oro explained. “Oh? Then tell me,” Joru said, intrigued. “Look at the four feathers on its top—they symbolize the ability to travel unhindered across the land. And look closer: Four sides represent the four great continents, Its eight corners symbolize the eight sub-continents. Fold it, and it lies flat on two sides, Unfold it, and it forms a perfect square. Three tassels hang down gracefully, Guarding you against the Five Poisons and Three Defilements. The four sides, pure white and soft, Wearing it, your heart will shine bright. Six petals of a green lotus, Grant liberation to all beings in six realms. The high ear flaps on both sides, Endless wisdom and knowledge to guide.” “This ceremonial hat suits you perfectly, Joru. Please accept it,” Oro said sincerely. Joru, secretly delighted, took the hat and placed it on his head, tucking his old sheepskin hat into his robe. In return, he gave Oro the crystal vial and the auspicious silk scarf gifted to him by the celestial maiden, wishing Oro even more beauty and wealth. Joru then galloped forward, overtaking more riders. Soon, he spotted the fortune-teller Gunxie Tibu and thought, “Everyone says his predictions are incredibly accurate. Since there’s still time, why not let him read my fortune?” With this in mind, Joru approached Gunxie Tibu and rode alongside him. “Great Fortune-Teller, I’ve heard of your fame. Today, I, Joru, would like to ask for a reading,” Joru said with a smile. “Oh, Joru, what would you like to know?” Gunxie Tibu asked without slowing his horse. “I’ve been wondering—how did the treasures of the Dharma King, the empire of the Jiana Emperor, and the thrones of the eighteen border kingdoms come to be? None of these were won by racing fast horses. Yet here in Ling Gabu, why does the throne depend on having the fastest horse? If your horse is fast, you’re the king. If it’s slow, you’re a slave. Isn’t that strange?” “That’s not a question I can answer,” Gunxie Tibu said with a frown. “I understand. I don’t need you to answer that. I just want you to tell me—will I win the prize?” “Joru, if this were a normal day, I would lay out my prayer mat, calm my mind, and pray sincerely to the gods for guidance. But today, with horses racing and reins snapping, I can only give you a quick fortune. I hope you don’t mind,” Gunxie Tibu said. “Of course! As long as it’s accurate, I will reward you generously,” Joru replied. Gunxie Tibu prayed and cast his fortune while riding. After a few moments, he shouted excitedly, “Joru, this is an excellent omen! The first sign descends from the heavens, Symbolizing the vast sky above. It’s an omen of securing the land, A sign that you will be king of Ling Gabu. The second sign rises from the earth, Symbolizing solid foundations. It’s an omen of peace and prosperity, A sign that you will be a great ruler. The third sign emerges from the ocean, Symbolizing unity and harmony. It’s an omen of family happiness, A sign that you will marry Zumu.” Joru laughed, delighted by the accuracy of Gunxie Tibu’s fortune. He gifted the fortune-teller a pure white scarf as a token of gratitude. Joru’s Feigned Illness and the Advice of the Doctor Joru ran a bit further before suddenly groaning and clutching his chest. His face turned pale, his body appeared weak, and he fell from his saddle, collapsing to the ground. He lay there moaning, “Oh no! I’m in so much pain! It hurts so badly!” At that moment, the renowned physician Gongga Nima happened to pass by. He immediately stopped his horse and asked, “Joru, what’s wrong? Are you sick?” “Yes, Doctor. Eight years of wandering have left me with chronic illnesses. Can you give me some medicine to help?” Joru replied weakly. Gongga Nima hesitated because he didn’t have his full medicine bag with him. While he had some emergency remedies, he wasn’t sure if they could treat Joru’s condition. Seeing Joru in such apparent pain, the doctor felt pity. He dismounted, crouched beside Joru, and asked, “Joru, where does it hurt? Is the pain severe? Let me check your pulse and see if I can help.” The doctor placed his fingers on Joru’s wrist as Joru continued to complain. “Oh, it hurts so much! My upper body feels like it’s burning—like a fever scorching my heart. My waist feels icy cold—like frost stabbing into my bones. My lower body feels like it’s boiling—like hot water searing my skin. Inside, it feels like my heart is breaking apart; outside, my body feels like it’s decaying. Doctor, am I dying?” After listening to Joru and finishing his pulse check, Gongga Nima looked at him with a puzzled expression. “Joru, illnesses are caused by three imbalances: wind, bile, and phlegm. They arise from greed, anger, and ignorance. When these three mix, they cause 424 types of diseases. But your pulse… it doesn’t match your symptoms. You have no signs of illness. Your body is balanced, harmonious, and clear of impurities. Either my diagnosis is wrong, or your pulse is an illusion—or perhaps, Joru, you’re faking this illness. Joru, there’s no need for this. Your pulse is strong, your future is bright, and you will succeed in your endeavors. The prize is already yours to claim.” Hearing this, Joru immediately jumped to his feet, his sickly appearance vanishing in an instant. He smiled, draped a white scarf around the doctor’s neck, and said, “The people of Ling Gabu say you, Gongga Nima, are the most skilled physician. Now I’ve seen it for myself—you’re truly extraordinary! Doctor, I’ll see you again after the race.” Joru mounted his horse and sped off, and in no time, he caught up with the overseer, Wang Rongchacha Gen. Joru called out cheerfully, “Uncle!” “Where have you been all this time? If you don’t catch up soon, Chao Tong will take the throne!” the overseer said sternly, his tone filled with frustration. “Don’t worry, Uncle. That won’t happen. You should know better than anyone—how could the throne, destined by the heavens, be taken by a mere beast? The masters and gods can testify to this. Along the race, I’ve already done many good deeds for everyone. Of course, I’ve also seen quite a lot of excitement,” Joru said, recalling his earlier encounters, especially with the hunchback Gulu, which made him laugh again. “Joru, stop treating this race like a joke. Go now! If you don’t hurry, even the gods won’t help you!” the overseer said, giving Joru’s horse a firm slap on the rear. The divine steed Jiangga Peibu leaped forward like a bolt of lightning, leaving the overseer far behind. Notes Jue Ru: Means "to lift upward" or "to straighten up." Gu Ru: Means "to bend down" or "to hunch over."

featured Book for king gesar Gesar: Tantric Practices of the Tibetan Warrior King Gesar: Tantric Practices of the Tibetan Warrior King Gesar of Ling is well known in Tibetan history, literature, and folklore. But, for Buddhist practitioners, he is an enlightened tantric protector and deity—an emanation of Padmasambhava. Engaging in Gesar practice is meant to generate positive circumstances and increase one’s experiences and realization in Buddhist practice. ByJamgon Mipham (Author), Gyurme Avertin (Editor, Translator), Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse (Foreword) The Song of King Gesar The Song of King Gesar is one of the world’s great epics, as significant for Tibetans as the Odyssey and Iliad were for the ancient Greeks. Passed down in song from one generation to the next, it is sung by Tibetan bards even today. Set partly in ancient Tibet, where evil spirits mingle with the lives of humans, and partly in the modern day, the tale tells of two lives inextricably entwined. by Alai (Author), Howard Goldblatt (Translator), Sylvia Li-chun Lin (Translator)

The people of the Ling tribe settled peacefully in the fertile Yellow River valley. The land was lush with grass and grain, and the livestock grew strong and healthy. It was indeed a wonderful place. Seeing the people living in peace and prosperity, Joru felt like he had completed an important mission. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 14: Chao Tong’s Fury and Dansa’s Silent Resolve Joru's Prophecy The people of the Ling tribe settled peacefully in the fertile Yellow River valley. The land was lush with grass and grain, and the livestock grew strong and healthy. It was indeed a wonderful place. Seeing the people living in peace and prosperity, Joru felt like he had completed an important mission. However, Joru wanted to venture to Mamey Yulong Songduo, a wild and dangerous land full of demons and evil spirits, to transform it into a new and peaceful home. But he feared the people of Ling would not allow him to leave. So, just as he had done when he lived in Ling, he created many disturbances that caused annoyance and hatred among the people. Eventually, Joru and his mother were once again driven out of the Yellow River valley and sent to the perilous land of Mamey Yulong Songduo, where demons roamed freely, and malevolent deities wreaked havoc. Despite the adversity, Joru’s pure and noble intentions never wavered. During the day, he sang and joked with the people, while at night he played dice games with the gods and gambled with demons. Using his divine powers and miraculous transformations, he subdued the demons and evil spirits one by one. Gradually, Joru turned the once wild and desolate land of Mamey Yulong Songduo into a peaceful and auspicious place. Time passed quickly, and before he realized it, Joru had turned 12 years old. It was the Tibetan Iron Pig Year. On the 8th day of the first month, just before dawn, as Joru was still fast asleep, the goddess Mandanaze descended to his side. She was surrounded by a host of sky-dancing dakinis and rode on a majestic white lion. Leaning close to Joru’s ear, she sang him a gentle and prophetic song: “In fields as neat as a chessboard, The green crops grow tall and strong. But without heavy fruits to adorn them, Even the lushest growth becomes mere fodder, Leaving nothing but empty sorrow. In the vast blue sky above, Countless stars twinkle and shine. But without the bright moon to reflect, Even the stars lose their brilliance, Leaving the earth in darkness. In the beautiful land of Ling, Joru performs countless wonders. But if he does not take the throne to rule, And merely intimidates his uncles, His miracles will tarnish his name. A thousand-mile steed from Uddiyana Roams among the northern wild horses. Born on the same day, month, and year as you, If you don’t capture it this year, Like a rainbow, it will vanish forever. The gods have chosen your bride— Sangjang Zumu, the Jewel Maiden of Jara. If you do not marry her this year, The Darong family will claim her instead. Without her help, your great deeds will fail. At dawn tomorrow, You must transform into the wrathful Horse-Headed Deity, And deliver a prophecy to Chao Tong. Tell him to host a grand banquet for the Ling brothers, And let the Darong family prepare the feast. Tell him the throne, treasures, and the Jewel Maiden Will be wagered in a horse race. Assure him that his Jade Horse will win, And the Jewel Maiden will become his family’s.” The Goddess's Instructions to Joru Joru, in a half-asleep, half-awake state, heard the goddess Mandanaze continue speaking: “My child, tomorrow at this time, you must transform into the wrathful Horse-Headed Deity and deliver a prophecy to Chao Tong. Tell him that he must immediately organize a grand horse race. The stakes should include the throne, the seven treasures, and the most beautiful girl in Ling—Sangjang Zumu, the Jewel Maiden of the Jara family. Also, tell him that the final victory of the race will surely belong to his Jade Horse.” Joru woke up suddenly, opening his eyes to the pitch-black darkness around him. The goddess had already disappeared, but her instructions were deeply imprinted in his mind. He thought to himself: “The goddess is right. For the past twelve years, I have been like a lotus hidden in mud. Aside from my mother, Guomu, no one knows who I truly am. I have done so many good deeds, yet no one understands or recognizes my efforts, and instead, I am often misunderstood. Now the time has come for me to reveal my abilities, follow the goddess’s instructions, participate in the horse race, and claim the throne.” Joru Delivers the Prophecy to Chao Tong To take the throne, the first thing Joru needed to do was to get Chao Tong, the leader of Darong, to host the horse race. At that time, Chao Tong was diligently practicing the rituals for the protector deity, the Horse-Headed Deity. This was a divine opportunity. On the night of the 9th day, Joru transformed into a crow. While Chao Tong was half-asleep during his practice, Joru sang him a prophetic song: “This is the Darong region of Wiyu, I am the red-faced Horse-Headed Deity. Wake up, Chao Tong, and listen to my prophecy! There’s an old saying: In fields scattered like stars, Barley is sown, hoping for timely rain. If southern clouds don’t bring rain now, Snowfall in winter will come too late. Chao Tong, practicing the Horse-Headed Deity’s ritual, You hope for blessings in great matters. If the gods do not grant blessings now, Their help will come too late. Tomorrow, prepare yourself. Gather all the brothers of Ling. Invite everyone, rich and poor alike, And host the banquet in your home. The Jewel Maiden of the Jara family, The seven treasures from the treasury, And the throne of the Ling Kingdom Will be wagered in the horse race. The throne will belong to your family, The Jewel Maiden’s husband will be from your line. Among the thirty horses of the brothers, Your Jade Horse will surely win.” When Chao Tong opened his eyes, he saw the crow—Joru’s transformation—disappear into the statue of the Horse-Headed Deity that he worshipped. Believing in the prophecy without a doubt, Chao Tong immediately got up, bowed repeatedly to the deity, and told his wife, Dansa, about the Horse-Headed Deity’s prophecy. Chao Tong Relays the Prophecy to Dansa Chao Tong immediately explained the situation to his wife, Dansa, and urged her to prepare the feast for the upcoming horse race: “Dansa Setso, don’t sleep in late. Lazy sleepers find no peace. Stones gather dust when they sleep, Trees rot at the roots when they sleep. Masters lose discipline when they sleep, Officials neglect laws when they sleep. Women ruin households when they sleep, Warriors lose to enemies when they sleep. At dawn, the northern deity delivered a prophecy. He said all six clans must gather. The Ling brothers must all be invited, And the banquet must be hosted by our family. The Jewel Maiden of the Jara family, The throne and the treasures of Ling, Will be wagered in the horse race. He said the Jewel Maiden will be ours, The golden throne will be ours, And I will inherit the kingship of Ling. Noble power and treasures, Together they shine brighter and brighter. Dishonorable companions and worn boots, Together they sink lower and lower, Until they are thrown out, unwanted. Remember this: To take what you want, your hands must be steady. To win the race, your knees must not tremble. Great achievements shine like pure banners— Never let them be stained by dirt. Celebrations are like polished white copper— Never let them tarnish with resentment. Setso, get up quickly! Prepare the banquet to welcome our guests. Sweet butter cakes in abundance, Mountains of fresh and tender meat, Oceans of fragrant wine. Prepare the finest teas, Brewed in auspicious copper pots, With salt and calf milk. The tea must be rich and delicious. Let the banquet be grand and magnificent. Wealth increases when generously shared, But hoarded treasures bring no joy. Give freely to trusted friends!” Dansa Suspects the Prophecy Dansa thought for a moment. She had heard rumors in the past that the throne of Ling, the seven treasures, and the Jewel Maiden Sangjang Zumu had already been prophesied to belong to Joru. Knowing Joru’s talent for transformations, she suspected that this prophecy might have been fabricated by him. Feeling it was her duty to clarify things to Chao Tong, she said: “My king, do not believe the cries of a crow in the middle of the night. That is not a deity but an evil spirit; it is not a prophecy but a trick. My king, as the saying goes: ‘Darkness forces people to rest at night; Deep in the night, one must sleep. Rising depends on the call of daylight; The bright day urges people to plow the fields.’ Everyone follows these four natural arrangements, so why is this 'Wrathful Deity' acting against them? Forcing you to wake up in the middle of the night is not a good omen! I urge you to sleep soundly tonight and discuss this matter with others tomorrow. It’s not too late to decide then…” Chao Tong Rejects Dansa's Plea Before Dansa could finish speaking, Chao Tong recalled the prophecy of the Horse-Headed Deity: “Superior men dedicate their hearts to the gods; Their hearts are bright like the sun. Mediocre men dedicate their hearts to their kings; They remain free and unconfused. Inferior men dedicate their hearts to their wives; And their fates are destined for misfortune.” Chao Tong thought to himself: “Only inferior men listen to their wives. I, Chao Tong, the leader of Darong, am a superior man. Naturally, I must listen to the prophecy of the gods. Besides, the seven treasures, the throne of Ling, and especially the unforgettable Jewel Maiden Sangjang Zumu—if I can bring her into my home, I would be completely satisfied, even if I gain nothing else!” The more Chao Tong thought about it, the happier he became. The prophecy of the Horse-Headed Deity seemed to align perfectly with his desires. He was particularly confident in his Jade Horse, the finest steed in Ling, and was certain it would win the race. However, one thing worried him: would Sangjang Zumu agree to be a wager in the horse race? If she agreed, there would be no doubt that she would become his wife. But Chao Tong also began to consider the possible conflicts between Zumu and Dansa once Zumu entered the household. He thought to himself: “How could I let Sangjang Zumu be mistreated? Even if she experienced the slightest unhappiness, I, Chao Tong, would also feel uneasy. This wretched Dansa could cause trouble in the future. It’s better to get rid of her now to avoid future problems.” Chao Tong Rebukes Dansa Thinking about all of this, Chao Tong turned to Dansa with fury and said: “Poison-tongued Dansa with lips like a sheep, Open your ears and listen well. If the gods did not pity and enlighten you, Your mind would remain muddled, your thoughts dim. The Horse-Headed Deity personally delivered the prophecy, And yet, you claim it brings disaster and misfortune. Challenging a good omen deserves punishment, But considering you’ve borne children for me, I’ll spare you this time out of kindness. The mistress of Darong Castle, When Sangjang Zumu arrives, will be her. The treasure vaults, golden chests, and royal chambers— All will be entrusted to her hands. As for you, wretched Dansa, Your hands will fetch wooden bowls and ladles. If you wish to stay, then stay; If not, you are free to leave! Spring brings warmth to the earth, Forcing ice to melt away. Autumn frost urges the harvest, Forcing ripe crops to be gathered. Dansa, you are like withering leaves, Destined to fall and fade from favor. When Sangjang Zumu rises like the morning sun, Your owl-like eyes will surely go blind. Zumu is a radiant, pure flower, Blooming on the shores of Darong Lake. All who see her regard her as sacred nectar, And the Wrathful King is enchanted by her beauty. You, Dansa, are just an ordinary prairie flower, Once vibrant in youth, now withered by time. Now, like an old rug underfoot, You are trampled and forgotten. The fate of past lives determines the suffering of this one— You cannot escape it. My household is abundant with food and drink, If you refuse to work, then sit aside. The princess, Chao Mu Cuo, Clever and capable, can assist Zumu. The grand banquet will surely be well-prepared. Chao Tong Gives Orders for the Banquet After speaking to Dansa, Chao Tong turned to his trusted servant Akui Tabasolang and gave him the following orders: “Akui Tabasolang! Waste no time and set out immediately! At the upper banks of Matiyada, Beat the ritual drum and blow the conch horn. Deliver this message to Gyacha and Xiega, Whisper the news to Siping in secret. Summon all the heroes of Ling, And announce this decree publicly: The beautiful lotus is about to be struck by hail; The brothers of Ling must act quickly, Or the stunning Sangjang Zumu Will be married off to another tribe. Therefore, a national horse race is to be held. Sangjang Zumu, along with her servants, And the seven treasures from the treasury, Will be the stakes for the horse race. Our Darong family will host the event, With a grand banquet to discuss important matters. Invite all the brothers to the feast. On the 10th day of the month, decisions will be made, And on the 15th, the horse race will take place.” Dansa's Silent Resolve Dansa was so angered by Chao Tong’s words that she trembled. As the saying goes: “The mountain lord cannot avoid debt collectors, And an old forehead cannot escape wrinkles.” Back when she was young and beautiful, like a vibrant flower of the grasslands, Chao Tong had married her into his home. Over the years, she had borne him children and managed the household. Now that she was old, Chao Tong had grown tired of her. He dismissed her good advice as malicious words and was ready to cast her aside after half a lifetime together. Dansa wanted to argue back but feared that Chao Tong would say even harsher things, disturbing the family’s harmony. She thought to herself: “The gods are always fair. I shall wait and see what becomes of this petty man.” With this thought, Dansa said nothing further. She continued to manage the household as she always had, silently and diligently preparing the banquet for Chao Tong. Notes : Seven Treasures: A Buddhist term. In the Lotus Sutra, the Seven Treasures are listed as gold, silver, lapis lazuli, crystal, agate, pearl, and ruby. However, the description of the Seven Treasures varies in different Buddhist scriptures.

After a long period of rest, Zumu finally recovered. She carefully thought about Joru’s request: K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 17: "With Divine Help, the Thousand-Mile Steed Is Captured; Zumu's Witty Praise for Jang Gapeibu" Zumu Prepares to Catch the Divine Horse After a long period of rest, Zumu finally recovered. She carefully thought about Joru’s request: “If I don’t capture that horse, there seems to be no other way. Joru is a man of extraordinary abilities, and if he says such a horse exists, it might actually be real. As the saying goes, ‘If you don’t have treasures of your own, how can you find them in the mountains?’ But if it really does exist, it must be an extraordinary divine horse. What does it look like? If I don’t ask clearly and search blindly, wouldn’t that be a wasted effort?” So, Zumu composed a song to ask for the features of the wild horse: "Joru, the divine son, has given me this task, To capture a divine horse from the wild. But animals belong to their owners, And Guomu would never steal a horse. Wild mules cannot be ridden, Wild oxen cannot be tamed. How could I take another’s horse home, And feel shame riding it afterward? This horse is no mountain mule, This horse is not among the usual herds. It resembles a mule but is not a mule, Wandering freely in the wild lands. If it is a gift from the gods, It will naturally come to Joru’s hands. If it is a treasure of the dragon king, It will surely come to Guomu’s home. To find something, you need its name, To retrieve something lost, you need its features. What are the characteristics of this horse? What is its color and how can it be recognized? Please, Joru, tell me clearly, So I can fulfill your command." Joru replied with a smile, “Zumu, you’re right. Without knowing the horse’s features, you won’t be able to catch it.” He then sang a song, describing the origins of the horse and its current location: "My dear mother, who raised me, Beautiful and wise, oh Zumu, listen well! Fields, seeds, and rainwater, Must all come together to grow crops. Arrows, strong bows, and steady hands, Are all needed to defeat enemies. Joru, Guomu, and Zumu, Only together can we capture the divine horse. The horse’s homeland lies in the holy lands of Maza, On the sacred peaks of Bangle Mountain. It is my destined steed, born alongside me. Its father is Garbo, the divine stallion, Descended from the celestial horses of the east. Its mother is Mada Jormo, A mare born into the wild herds. Its body is not light red but deep crimson, Its fur glistens like polished gemstones, Its ears are tipped with eagle feathers, And its hooves have wind-like swirls. It stands out from all other horses, With nine unique features that you must remember: Its forehead resembles a falcon’s, Its neck looks like a weasel’s. Its face is like a goat’s, And its jaw is as delicate as a rabbit’s. Its eyes are like a frog's, And its pupils shine like a serpent’s. Its nose is soft like silk, And its ears are pointed, adorned with feathers. It has eighteen powerful tendons, And twenty strong joints. This horse is no ordinary creature. It can fly to the skies and speak human words. Among thousands of horses, none are like it. Only with the help of the gods and Guomu’s skills Can this divine horse be captured." Guomu and Zumu Capture the Divine Horse After listening to Joru’s explanation, Guomu and Zumu set out to capture the divine horse, with the assistance of heavenly gods, dragon deities, and protective spirits. When they arrived at the Mulanmu mountain pass, they gazed upon the Bangle Mountain slopes. Some wild horses roamed freely on the mountain peaks, while others grazed on the valley's lush grasslands. Looking closer, they spotted the extraordinary divine horse! It had a tail like jade, a mane as green as emeralds, and fur that shimmered like red rubies. Its coat sparkled with rainbow-like hues, and its hooves danced with an unceasing rhythm. From the front, it resembled a "Rigma," standing tall and proud. From behind, it looked like an eagle swooping down for its prey. Its legs were as agile as a fox’s, with patterns on its skin resembling the flowing movement of fish. Its powerful thighs were well-defined, and its chest resembled the delicate build of a songbird. Each of its four legs had a unique swirl of hair, and its proportions were perfectly balanced. The horse had thirteen distinct abilities, hidden like a gathering of eagles. Upon seeing the horse, Zumu turned to Guomu and sang: "Oh masters, gods, and protectors, I offer you my humble song. This here is the sacred Mulanmu pass, A place of great beauty and renown. Look toward the mountain ahead, Like a king seated upon a throne. The Chinese call it 'Dongqing Nian Nian,' And the Tibetans name it 'Bangle Mountain.' Clouds swirl around its peaks, Green grass covers its slopes, Flowers bloom brightly at its base, Competing in beauty and fragrance. This is where the divine horse resides, Hiding among the wild white-mouthed horses. It plays with hundreds of mares, Frolics with countless foals. Its tail and mane dance with the wind, Its fur shines with rainbow colors. Sometimes it appears, sometimes it vanishes, Creating illusions and countless mirages. Above, a majestic eagle spreads its wings, Behind it, a lion roars with pride, And in front, a tiger leaps fiercely. Its eyes, heart, and legs, Shoulders, cartilage, and ribs, Are as strong as a gathering of hawks. This is no ordinary horse; It has the power to fly to the heavens, And it understands human words. Among thousands of horses, None can compare to this divine creature. Its unique traits are etched in my mind, But capturing it will require the help of gods and protectors, And the skill of Guomu, my dear mother." Guomu Captures the Divine Horse Following Zumu's guidance, Guomu spotted the divine horse and was filled with joy. She thought to herself: "Capturing this divine horse will require more than just effort. Without the blessings of the gods, the power of the Three Jewels, and the karmic connections of past lives, it would be impossible for me to catch it. Since my son Joru said the horse is intelligent and can even speak human language, I should also sing about its connection to Joru while praying to the gods and the Three Jewels. Perhaps the horse will understand." With this in mind, Guomu sang a prayer in the auspicious six-tone melody: "At the crown chakra of supreme bliss, Sits the master, Padmasambhava, Along with the divine East Joro Garbo. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the throat chakra of enjoyment, Sits the deity Hayagriva, Guiding beings with true prophecies. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the heart chakra of Dharma, Sits the divine protector Nagasri Vichu. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the navel chakra of transformation, Sits the countless formless dakinis, Along with the goddess Tara Viga. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. At the secret chakra of bliss, Sit the many protective deities, Along with my own son, Joru. Please, come quickly to help me, Guomu, And cast the celestial lasso to capture the divine horse. Oh gods and protectors, lend me your strength. Together, let us catch this divine horse, And place the lasso's end in my hands." Then, Guomu turned her attention to the horse and continued singing: "Oh divine horse, listen carefully! I have a few words for you: A sharp arrow, sleek in its golden casing, Is a hero's adornment. But if it fails to strike the enemy, Its sharpness matters not. A brave and cherished son, Is regarded as a treasure in the world. But if he cannot protect his kin, His existence matters not. Lush green fields are adorned by crops, Making the land more beautiful. But if the harvest cannot be reaped, Blossoms matter not. A divine horse, like you, Adorns the mighty Mount Meru. But if you are not saddled and ridden, Your speed matters not." The Divine Horse's Song After finishing her song, Guomu stepped forward. The other wild horses scattered in all directions, but the divine horse stayed behind. It showed affection toward Guomu, looking joyful, and neighed loudly as it sang: "If you do not know this place, It is the famous sacred Bangle Mountain. If you do not know who I am, I am the messenger sent by the gods. The celestial spirits regard me as a treasure, And I am the one who determines the fate of all horses. I am the king of horses, Jang Gapeibu is my name. Guomu, listen carefully, I have a few words to say to you: Without taming wild beasts, They cannot become domestic animals. Without hard work and ambition, Dreams will vanish like bubbles. Without good fortune, wealth is hard to gain. Without karmic ties, children cannot grow. I, the king of horses, Spent three years in Nama Xiong, Three years in Kuruja, Three years in Yuzhi’e, And three years grazing on Bangle Mountain. For twelve springs, I have endured hardship. In summer, I had no shelter from rain. In winter, I had no blanket to keep warm, The howling winds pierced my bones. In spring, I had no food to fill my belly, I was hungry and miserable. Twelve long years I have waited, Longing for a saddle and bridle that never came. Twelve years have passed like flowing water, And no master has come to seek me. I have never been adorned with a fine saddle, Nor have I ever rested in a warm stable. My mouth has never tasted exquisite food, And all my hopes remain unfulfilled. I have never heard Joru’s name, Nor have I seen Guomu’s face. Now, I am old and weary, Unable to be trained or fulfill my destiny. If seeds are not sown in spring, How can crops be harvested in autumn? If cows are not fed in winter, How can butter be churned in spring? If horses are not trained in times of peace, Where will steeds be found in times of war? I cannot stay here to suffer, Nor will I roam the world to help mortals. If Joru does not regret losing me, I would rather return to the heavens. If you understand my song, it will sweeten your ears. If you do not, I have no regrets." After finishing its song, the divine horse prepared to take flight, spreading its wings like an eagle soaring into the sky. Realizing the urgency, Guomu focused all her attention on praying to the gods and spirits. From the clouds above, countless gods, dragon deities, and celestial spirits descended, as numerous as dust illuminated by sunlight. Leading them were Joru’s divine siblings—East Joro Garbo, Naga Vichu, and Tara Viga. They cast a celestial lasso around the horse’s neck and handed the other end to Guomu. The gods scattered auspicious flowers, created rainbows in the sky, and revealed countless miraculous signs. Guomu successfully captured the divine horse. Slowly, she descended the mountain, thinking: "This divine horse is truly extraordinary. It understands human emotions, Speaks human words, And has wings to soar through the heavens. No other horse in the Ling Kingdom can compare." Turning to Zumu, Guomu asked: "Oh Zumu, from the wealthy Jara family, Your family has thousands of fine horses, And every noble in Ling owns an exceptional steed. Have you ever seen a horse like this?" The Divine Horse's Escape and Song After Guomu finished her question, she was about to sing a song praising the divine horse. However, the horse's abilities had yet to be fully demonstrated, and it was not yet the right time for Zumu to offer her praise. Suddenly, the divine horse became frightened by the thought of being captured. With a powerful leap, it soared into the sky like an eagle spreading its wings. Guomu clung tightly to the horse’s neck, hanging on like an ornament. As the horse ascended higher into the air, the lands of Jara, Jaga, Persia, Tibet, Jiang, and the Demon Kingdom clearly appeared beneath their feet. At that moment, the divine horse neighed loudly and sang: "Oh gods of bliss residing within my body, Oh dakinis flowing through my veins, Oh Buddhas who guide my soul, Please watch over me, And help me fulfill my mission to benefit all beings! If you do not know this place, It is the celestial realm where birds soar freely. Look below at the beautiful lands! There lies the sacred Jaga Eagle Mountain, Like an eagle resting on the ground. There lies the holy Mount Emei of Jara, Like a great reclining elephant. There lies the sacred Wutai Mountain, Like the crown of five Buddhas. And there lies Mount Kailash, Like a crystal vase of enlightenment. These are the four sacred mountains of the southern continent, Majestic and revered by all. That place, where clouds shroud the peaks, Where day becomes as dark as night, Is the Muba Chuchu Mountain in the north. That mountain, where black braids sway like dancers, Is Jowo Langri Mountain in the far north. That fortress, sharp as a black iron stake, Is the Demon Stronghold of Sharulangmu City. It is also called Bangnaka Ruogu Jiao. It is where Joru will subdue demons, And where I, the divine horse, will benefit all beings. Please, Guomu, remember it well! If no one in Ling praises me, If Guomu does not sing my virtues, Then I cannot stay in the Ling Kingdom. I would rather return to the celestial heavens. If you understand my song, it brings sweetness to your ears. If you do not, I have no regrets." At that moment, the divine horse performed a miraculous act, transporting itself to the Five Peaks Mountain in the mainland, where Joru was already waiting. Guomu and Zumu Deliver the Divine Horse to Joru Joru lightly struck the divine horse three times with his whip. The horse swayed and dashed forward, ultimately flying back to the summit of Bangle Mountain. When Guomu landed on the ground, she was overjoyed to take hold of the horse and began leading it down the mountain. Seeing this, Zumu quickly exclaimed, "Guomu! Since we’ve already captured the horse, let’s hurry and deliver it to Joru. Once the horse is handed over, our mission will be complete." As they spoke, the two women led the horse toward Joru. However, before they could reach him, the horse broke free and ran directly toward Joru. Despite their efforts, neither Guomu nor Zumu could catch it again. Zumu, alarmed, shouted, "Joru! Joru! The horse is running away!" Joru, calm and composed, said to Guomu, "Mother, let go of the rope. This thousand-mile steed is destined to be with me. Today is the day of our fated reunion—it will not run away again." Guomu thought to herself, What my son says is true. Based on past experiences, I cannot capture this horse with my strength alone unless divine power intervenes. With this realization, she released the rope, letting it fall onto the horse’s back. The divine horse, upon seeing Joru, ran toward him with affection, like a child reuniting with its mother. Joru gently stroked the horse for a long while, took hold of the celestial lasso, and then turned to Zumu, saying: "Ah, Sister Sonam Zumu! Now the celestial thousand-mile horse is mine, and it’s time to head to the Ling Kingdom. In the past, my mother and I were unfamiliar with horses. But you, as a daughter of the wealthy Jara family and the owner of countless fine steeds, must be well-acquainted with the thirty steeds of the Ling brothers. Please examine this horse and tell me: Does it rank as superior, average, or inferior? Can it stand alongside the brothers’ steeds? What are the advantages of ordinary horses, and what unique traits does this one possess? Please share your thoughts." Zumu’s Song of Praise for the Divine Horse Zumu, born into wealth and the owner of nine herds of fine horses, naturally knew how to distinguish the qualities of horses. From a young age, she had learned from her father about the traits of excellent steeds. Thus, she began to describe the characteristics of ordinary horses and the unique traits of the divine horse, singing in the Nine Lions Six Variations Melody: "I pray sincerely to the Three Jewels, May my words today come true. Joru, son of Guomu, I have a few things to tell you. As Tibetans say: "If one does not understand the guru’s virtues, Worshiping is like smearing butter on a rock. If one does not comprehend the teachings, Chanting scriptures is no different from a parrot’s mimicry. If one does not know their origins, They are like a monkey lost in the forest. If one cannot distinguish treasure from stone, They are like a stranger lost on the road." Without understanding the traits of fine horses, One might mistakenly call an ordinary horse a steed. Good horses are divided into four types: Jining, Mukeng, Bodu, and Dowa. Among them, Dowa horses are the best when long-bodied. Bodu horses are excellent when sturdy. Mukeng horses are praised for their strong build. And Jining horses are admired for their lightness. The best Dowa horse is like the rising sun, Its four sides built as if perfectly aligned. The middle Dowa horse resembles a drawn string, Loose on the outside but tight within. The lowest Dowa horse is like an iron ox, Its body long but its skin thin. The appearance of a horse falls into three categories: A phoenix-shaped face is the finest, A goat-shaped face is average, And a deer-shaped face is inferior. The legs of a horse fall into three categories: Cow’s legs rank first, Deer legs come second, And goat legs are the least desirable. The teeth of horses fall into seven categories: First, like a wild mule’s teeth, wide and deep—this is the best. Second, like a white-faced yak’s teeth, slightly crooked. Third, like a sheep’s teeth, white and fine. These three types of teeth belong to the best horses. Fourth, like a tiger’s fangs, sharp and long. Fifth, like a camel’s teeth, drooping outward. Sixth, like a pig’s teeth, with rough bumps all over. These three types of teeth belong to inferior horses. Seventh, like a riding horse’s teeth, with narrow grooves—this is average. The quality of a horse’s coat falls into five categories: First, like a deer’s coat—coarse and long—this is the best. Second, like a tiger’s coat—short and strong. These two types of coats are ideal. Third, like a fox’s coat—soft and long. Fourth, like a bear’s coat—short and rough. These two types of coats are the worst. Fifth, like a donkey’s coat—neither soft nor strong. This is considered average. The hooves of horses fall into seven categories: First, hooves shaped like wooden bowls. Second, edges worn smooth like copper petals. Third, short, upright hooves resembling iron pig hooves. These three types of hooves belong to the best horses. Fourth, curled edges with no indentation in the center. Fifth, flat hooves with no heel. Sixth, hooves that are round and smooth with no edges. These three types of hooves are inferior. Seventh, hooves that are four-curved and three-straight—these are average. The structure of a horse’s bones and joints is critical: The topmost joint is the neck. A neck with round, evenly spaced vertebrae is excellent. The middle joint is the spine. A spine with three slightly curved segments is ideal. The lowest joint is the hoof. Short, thick hoof bones are considered superior. Behind the ears is the skull. A lower skull is better than a higher one. Behind the tail is the rump. A higher rump is better than a lower one. The calf should resemble the udder of a pregnant mare. A flatter shape is better than a protruding one. The top of the head should be straight and thick. A higher head is better than a lower one. The mane should flow like white silk. Longer is better than shorter. Upright manes resemble pillars reaching to the sky. Taller is better than shorter. The throat and neck should be stretched taut like a ribbon. A longer neck is more desirable than a shorter one. The collarbone should house small lungs, Smaller lungs are better than larger ones. The outer ribs should house the kidneys. Protruding ribs are better than sunken ones. Rounded ribs gathered beneath the chest are ideal. The abdomen should have symmetrical ribs. The lungs should be wide and spacious. The liver should be small and compact. The intestines should be thick and strong. The heart should be thin and light. These internal organs define a fine horse. A large head needs a crown. Large ears resemble a hat on the head. Small legs need shoes. Hooves should look like sturdy, well-fitted footwear. The first of the sixteen vertebrae Should be able to hold a liter of barley. The space between the eyes and ears should be hidden. The top of the head and the nose should be narrow. The mane should be neatly tucked between the shoulders. The four limbs should appear as though carved, Resembling four lambs standing apart. Now let me describe five types of swift horses: First, a hawk-chested, bull-shouldered horse, Which can herd a group of horses with a whip. Second, a horse with upright manes and a sharp snout, Which can lasso wild oxen even at night. Third, a horse with an arched waist and wide flanks, Which can crack a deer’s skull with its bite. Fourth, a rabbit-headed, round-nosed, buckwheat-eyed horse, Which can snatch a rabbit from the mountains. Fifth, a horse that leaps like a tiger or a rat, Which can chase the clouds and catch the moon, Racing faster than even the birds of the sky. Next, I’ll describe four types of long-distance horses: First, the ‘Jajang Wu Ba Paibo’ horse, Which can gallop a hundred miles without sweating. Second, the ‘Tongjang Zhu Gu Bai Xie’ horse, Which can travel a thousand miles tirelessly. Third, the ‘Chijang Ka Wa Gang Bo’ horse, Which can gallop ten thousand miles without fatigue. Fourth, the ‘Benza Chang Ba Ben Deng’ horse, Which can cover a hundred thousand miles with ease. This divine horse is unlike ordinary ones. On its head are seven animal-like features: First, the forehead of a yak. Second, the eye sockets of a frog. Third, the fierce eyes of a viper. Fourth, the snow-white nostrils of a lion. Fifth, the lips of a tiger. Sixth, a tuft of eagle feathers near the ears. Seventh, the lower jaw of a stag. These seven features make up the perfect steed. Additionally, every fine horse has eighteen tendons, Each unique and unlike those of ordinary horses. The tendons resemble the following: Like crows crossing necks, They are found on the horse’s forehead. Like a tiger’s embrace, They are found on the back of the head. Like a water-filled stomach, They are found on the cheeks. Like a fish swimming, They are found along the ribs. Like a jade dragon drilling through, They are found in the horse’s armpits. Like heaps of wool, They are found on the top of the head. Like a pig’s nest, They are found on the horse’s thighs. Like a bag of barley, They are found on its shinbones. Like a coiled thread, They are found on the inner thighs. Like a drum, They are found on the belly. Like thick fingers, They are found along the tail. This divine horse possesses every single one of these traits. It is perfect in every way. Its coat shines brighter than rubies. It races like a shooting star. It was born from the deity Hayagriva. Those who ride it will not fall into hell, But instead will ascend to the heavens. This horse is the very embodiment of liberation." Zumu's Continued Praise for the Divine Horse At this point, Zumu paused for a moment, thought deeply, and then continued singing: "To praise ordinary horses in such a way would not be right, This divine steed truly deserves such admiration. Oh, how happy I am! A thousand-mile horse, how miraculous! A divine steed from the heavens, praised by all. Among the thirty fine horses of the Ling Kingdom, There is Dongzan’s jade-hued Iron-Blue Horse, Said to have the strength of a great roc bird. But this ability is not so special, For it is merely an animal’s natural instinct. There is Chaxiang Danma’s ‘Divine Silver-Grey Steed,’ And Chaotong’s mount, the ‘Black-Tailed Jackal.’ These are said to understand human emotions and speak human language. While all praise them as extraordinary, It is not worth being amazed, For clever animals can also mimic speech. Yama Sendha’s ‘Thousand-Mountain Charger,’ Jiacha’s ‘White-Shouldered Phoenix Horse,’ And the Grand Chief’s ‘Mule-Headed Chestnut Steed’ Are all said to have the abilities of a thousand-mile horse. Yet, there is no need for astonishment. Their outward appearance and inner nature, Are no more than what ordinary animals possess. But your divine steed is truly exceptional. Though it has the body of an animal, Within it lies the heart of a Buddha. It was born from the deity Hayagriva. Seeing it ensures one will not fall into hell. Riding it will carry you to the heavens. Such an extraordinary divine steed, To see it today is truly rare. What I have witnessed firsthand is even more astonishing: It was captured by heavenly gods, dragon deities, and celestial spirits. The lasso used to capture it was a miraculous celestial rope. In the sky, it has wings to fly, On the ground, it has hooves to gallop. It is as gentle as a domesticated horse, Yet such a magnificent steed is hard to find in this world. When it flies, it spreads its wings through the nine heavens, Even a great roc cannot match its height. When it runs, it races as fast as the wind, No steed in the Ling Kingdom can compete with it. Joru, your red rabbit-like divine steed, Is truly a thousand-mile horse that chases the wind and rides the clouds. Now that the divine horse is in your hands, Joru, quickly return with me to the Ling Kingdom. Winning the horse race will be as easy as turning your hand. Your divine steed will certainly take first place. With this horse, Joru will undoubtedly ascend to the throne, And Zumu will always belong to you. Oh, divine steed! Every word of Zumu’s praise is true. Ling Gabu needs you, And my entire life depends on you! If you understand my song, you are truly fortunate. If you do not, I will not explain further. Joru, please remember this in your heart." The divine steed’s past karmic connection with Zumu made her praise perfectly fitting. After hearing her song, the divine steed felt deeply joyful. It stood obediently by Joru’s side, waiting for its master to mount its back. It was ready to carry Joru to victory in the horse race. Notes Lhagma: A type of giant sacred pillar.

K i n g G e s a r The Great Person that Connected with King Gesar YangthANG rinpoche Yangthang Rinpoche on How to Practice a Yidam Yangthang Rinpoche, a great accomplished master of the Palyul lineage, discusses in this teaching the inseparable nature of the guru, yidam (deity), dakinis, and dharma protectors with our own essence. Whether we take Tara as our yidam or bring home a thangka of King Gesar for protection, these practices introduce us to our own mind’s nature through what appears to be an “external” and seemingly more elevated object. Attaining Buddhahood does not mean achieving something external or higher; instead, every sentient being already possesses Buddha-nature. The purpose of connecting with yidams and protectors is to help us recognize the innate abilities we already have. If we practice the yidam and offer praises to protectors with faith in our own complete and perfect Buddha-nature, then we are cultivating immense merit! Let’s take a look at what Yangthang Rinpoche has to say: King Gesar Some people say King Gesar is a yidam, others say he is a dharma protector. If you regard him as a protector, then he is a protector. If you regard him as a guardian, then he is a guardian. If you regard him as a yidam, then he is a yidam. If you regard him as a guru, then he is a guru. You can also regard him as a combination of guru, yidam, and protector all in one. Some people have received this empowerment multiple times. Based on faith in the guru and devotion to the yidam, receiving the empowerment more than once—five or six times, even—is perfectly fine. Some people attend many empowerments and receive many yidam practices but worry about not being able to practice all of them, and therefore hesitate to attend empowerments. There’s no need to worry. It’s impossible to practice all the yidams one receives empowerments for. Practicing just one method is sufficient, and you can still attend other empowerments. A Brief Story of King Gesar Some people are unfamiliar with the origins of King Gesar, so here is a brief explanation:Over 1,300 years ago, when Guru Rinpoche’s time of benefiting sentient beings in the human realm was coming to an end, he prepared to travel to the land of the rakshasas to liberate beings there. His disciples came to see him off, and the son of King Trisong Detsen was so grief-stricken that he fainted, crying that he would not know how to carry on without Guru Rinpoche. Guru Rinpoche comforted him, saying, “Do not grieve. Many years from now, when the world is in need, I will appear in the human realm in flesh and blood.” Later, during the time of King Langdarma, who was influenced by Bon practices, there was a decline in respect for the Dharma. Many demonic forces manifested as kings in neighboring regions of Tibet, plotting to destroy the Dharma. At that time, Guru Rinpoche manifested as King Gesar, born into the human realm. Leading an army, King Gesar defeated the demonic armies of these neighboring kingdoms, transferred their consciousnesses to pure realms, and restored the Dharma. From the age of 13 to over 80, King Gesar spent his life in battle. His generals were emanations of Guru Rinpoche’s 25 main disciples and the 84 great mahasiddhas of India. King Gesar himself was an emanation of Manjushri’s body, Avalokiteshvara’s speech, and Vajrapani’s mind. Therefore, King Gesar and his generals are “transcendental deities” (beyond the worldly), not “worldly deities.” If you practice King Gesar as your guru, you can visualize him as Guru Rinpoche. Practice him as guru yoga, imagining that Guru Rinpoche is King Gesar, and recite Guru Rinpoche’s mantra. Guru Rinpoche embodies the essence of guru, yidam, and protector, so practicing Guru Rinpoche is equivalent to practicing all three. Alternatively, you can practice King Gesar in this way. Some people like to practice the Three Roots (guru, yidam, dakini) separately. For guru yoga, visualize Guru Rinpoche. For the yidam, you can choose Avalokiteshvara, Vajrakilaya, or Wrathful Guru Rinpoche. For the dakini, you can choose Vajrayogini, Green Tara, or Yeshe Tsogyal. How to Visualize a Yidam Visualizing a yidam clearly is very difficult. Many people are aware of the generation stage and the completion stage in tantric practice. When visualizing the yidam’s color, clothing, ornaments, and hand-held implements, we often focus on one detail, such as the face, and forget the others. If we focus on the clothing, we may forget the implements, and if we focus on the implements, we may forget the face. It’s hard to hold all the details at once. Even Tibetan scholars who have studied texts for years still struggle with yidam visualization when they enter retreat. True visualization is incredibly complex. To reach the level of the generation stage, one must visualize the yidam’s infinite palace, its intricate details, the yidam, and its retinue with the clarity of a reflection in a mirror, while simultaneously perceiving them as illusory appearances. Few can achieve this, so don’t worry if your visualization isn’t perfect. Simply visualize the yidam in the space in front of you and deeply believe that they are truly present. This is sufficient to achieve the generation stage. Then, recite the yidam’s mantra, conclude by imagining the yidam radiating light to purify you, and finally dissolve the yidam into light, merging it with yourself. This completes the completion stage. Faith and Trust in the Yidam Whether you are practicing guru yoga or a yidam, cultivate deep trust that wherever you are—heaven, hell, or anywhere—the yidam knows. Trust that in this life, at the moment of death, and in the next life, you will rely on them. Have unwavering faith. Offering to Protectors When offering to protectors, regard them as part of your own nature and an expression of your mind’s essence. If you treat protectors as merely external entities, they can help you, but you won’t be able to realize their qualities as part of yourself. Rely on transcendental deities. If you rely on worldly deities, such as mountain gods, earth gods, river gods, or local spirits, they may sometimes help you, but they may also harm you. At the time of death, they might even lead you into darkness. Do not regard worldly deities or demons as part of your mind’s nature. Doing so can lead to confusion, madness, and emotional instability. Many cases of mental instability are related to faith in worldly deities. Avoid relying on them or interacting with them. Balancing Practice and Daily Life Everyone is busy with work and earning a living. Wealth depends on karma—those with merit will naturally have wealth without much effort, while those without merit must work hard and still may not have much. Having enough food, clothing, and a vehicle for transportation is sufficient. Beyond this, consider spending more time on practice. Even if you are busy, you don’t need to recite many mantras while practicing. Recite a manageable amount, live joyfully, and remain free of worries. That is enough.

Chao Tong rode his fine horse leisurely, feeling confident. The finish line at Hot Mountain was not far ahead, and he was secretly delighted. Originally, his only real competitor was Joru, but Joru was nowhere to be seen. This confirmed the prophecy of the Horsehead King: the throne, the seven treasures, and the peerless beauty Senjang Zumu would all belong to his family, the Darong clan. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 22: Winning the Horse Racing Championship and Ascending the Golden Throne, The Lion King Grants Titles to Benefit the Mountain Region. Joru’s Final Victory Chao Tong rode his fine horse leisurely, feeling confident. The finish line at Hot Mountain was not far ahead, and he was secretly delighted. Originally, his only real competitor was Joru, but Joru was nowhere to be seen. This confirmed the prophecy of the Horsehead King: the throne, the seven treasures, and the peerless beauty Senjang Zumu would all belong to his family, the Darong clan. As Chao Tong indulged in his joy, he suddenly saw Joru riding up right in front of him. It was as if a bucket of cold water had been poured on his burning excitement, extinguishing all his happiness. But Chao Tong, pretending to be calm, forced a smile and asked Joru: “Nephew, why have you only just caught up? Who do you think will win today’s prize?” Joru could see from Chao Tong’s calm exterior that he was actually very nervous inside. To toy with him, Joru replied, “Uncle, I’ve already passed the golden throne twice but didn’t dare sit on it. Now, all the racers are exhausted, their horses trembling with fatigue. Who knows if anyone will even reach the finish line to sit on the throne?” Hearing that Joru had already passed the golden throne twice, Chao Tong’s heart tightened. But when Joru said he hadn’t dared to sit down, Chao Tong relaxed. He decided to try convincing Joru to give up the race. Smiling warmly, he said, “Someone will surely reach the throne, but sitting on it isn’t necessarily a good thing. For the young and inexperienced, the prize is just a trap. Winning it will bring trouble to your family and misfortune to yourself. Haven’t you heard the song?” “The ‘radiant and glorious’ drum, Is but a wooden shell wrapped in hide. The ‘pure white, resounding’ conch, Is nothing more than an empty shell. The ‘thunderous, roaring’ cymbal, Is merely a bronze instrument. Slaughter it, and it gives no meat; Milk it, and it yields no cream. Wear it, and it brings no warmth; Eat it, and it will not fill your hunger. Flowers in a pile of dung, Though bright in color, Will defile the gods as offerings. A foolish woman from the Jialuo clan, Though beautiful in appearance, Will bring chaos to her family. A poisonous sweet fruit, Though tasty at first, Will kill you once swallowed. Becoming a ruler of many clans, Though it sounds glorious, Brings unbearable burdens and pain.” Chao Tong continued, “Nephew, I’m offering you kind advice. Don’t trouble yourself over this prize anymore.” Joru listened to Chao Tong’s long speech and sneered. “If the prize brings so much misfortune, then you shouldn’t want it either, Uncle. But I, Joru, fear nothing. I’ve always let others take the good, while taking the bad for myself. Let me be the one to bear the curse of this prize!” With that, Joru cracked his whip, leaving Chao Tong behind in a cloud of dust. Realizing he had been tricked, Chao Tong stood there stunned, ashamed and angry. “I tried to deceive him, but I ended up deceiving myself!” he thought bitterly. Filled with regret and frustration, Chao Tong whipped his horse and chased after Joru. Joru Tests His Brother Gacha and the Final Race In an instant, Joru caught up with his brother, Gacha Xiega. Seeing his brother’s back, Joru suddenly came up with an idea. Gacha was dressed in shining white armor, riding a horse called “White-Shouldered Phoenix,” with a hidden treasure blade at his waist. He was whipping his horse forward with all his strength. The white-backed horse was already exhausted—its mane was drenched in sweat, its legs trembling, and it didn’t even have the energy to whinny anymore. Suddenly, in front of Gacha appeared a black man riding a black horse, blocking his path. The black man said, “Hey, Gacha! I’ve heard the wealth of the Jialuo clan and the beautiful Senjang Zumu have been entrusted to you. Hand them over quickly, and I’ll spare your life. But if you dare say ‘no,’ I’ll make sure your blood flows through three valleys!” Hearing this, Gacha’s teeth clenched in fury, grinding audibly. “Black demon! Don’t dream of it. The seven treasures of Ling Gabu and the maiden Zumu can never be taken by you, and even I have no right to claim them. Only my brother Joru has the right to be king. If you know what’s good for you, step aside now, or I’ll send you straight to hell to meet the King of Death!” “And if I don’t step aside?” The black demon sneered, showing a row of bloodstained teeth. “Then so be it!” Gacha pulled out his hidden treasure blade and swung it fiercely at the black demon. However, the blade struck only empty air, and Gacha almost fell off his horse. The black man and his black horse had disappeared, and in their place sat Joru, calmly on his divine steed Jiangga Peibu. Smiling at Gacha, Joru said, “Brother Gacha, please don’t strike! Don’t be angry with me. I only wanted to test you. I was worried that if something happened in Ling Gabu, especially if infighting broke out among our brothers, you might not be able to handle it fairly or protect the throne.” Gacha instantly understood that it was Joru in disguise. He straightened his posture and said solemnly, “Beloved Joru, my dear brother, you don’t need to test me. The heavens have already foretold your destiny—to subdue the four demons, to be invincible in heaven and on earth. I, Gacha, have no other wish but to serve my younger brother. Please, Joru, whip your horse and ride swiftly to claim the throne.” “What? Brother, you don’t want the throne or Ling Gabu? If you don’t want them, then what use are they to a beggar like me?” Joru said, dismounting his horse and taking off his calfskin coat. He sat on the ground, relaxed and unmoving. Seeing this, Gacha hurriedly dismounted as well. “Brother Joru, the importance of the throne is not in the power it brings, but in the good you can do for the people. For the sake of the people, we must do everything we can. If you delay now, not only will you lose the throne, but the people will suffer. Think about it—if Chao Tong takes the throne in front of everyone, what good will your divine powers do afterward? Joru, for the people of Ling Gabu, get on your horse and ride as fast as you can!” Hearing Gacha’s words, Joru realized his brother was absolutely right. Looking at the sky, he saw that time was running out. Chao Tong was already far ahead, nearing the golden throne. There was no time to waste—any further delay would lead to lifelong regret and failure to fulfill his mission on earth. Joru leapt onto his horse and galloped toward the finish line. Joru Ascends the Throne as King Chao Tong was overjoyed. The golden throne was just within reach. As long as his prized steed, Yuja Horse, leapt forward one more time, he would sit firmly on the golden throne and announce to Ling Gabu that he was the victor. The race's prize, the throne, and the peerless beauty Senjang Zumu would all belong to the Darong clan. Let those who doubted him stew in jealousy! With that, Chao Tong squeezed the horse’s sides and urged it forward. But the Yuja Horse did not charge ahead as Chao Tong had hoped. Instead, it reared back and leapt several strides in reverse. Chao Tong watched in horror as the golden throne grew farther and farther away. He screamed in panic. After a moment, he remembered to pull the reins, but no matter how hard he tugged, the Yuja Horse refused to stop and continued retreating. “Could there be some kind of demon guarding the golden throne?” Chao Tong thought. Regardless, he jumped off the horse, desperate to reach the throne on foot. The Yuja Horse collapsed onto the ground, panting heavily and letting out pitiful cries. Chao Tong turned back, unable to leave his loyal steed behind. He stroked the horse’s mane gently, and it stopped crying but continued gasping for air. Chao Tong tried to pull the reins to help the horse stand, but the Yuja Horse only closed its eyes and gave a faint whimper. Chao Tong realized that the horse could no longer continue. Seeing other racers catching up, Chao Tong steeled his resolve, abandoned the Yuja Horse, and sprinted toward the throne. However, his legs felt like they were running on a treadmill, moving but going nowhere. No matter how hard he pushed, he couldn’t get closer to the golden throne. Exhausted, drenched in sweat, and gasping for breath, Chao Tong turned around and saw his Yuja Horse lying at his feet, staring at him with sorrowful eyes, as if pleading, “Master, save me, please.” Chao Tong’s heart softened. He stopped running and knelt beside his horse, trying to comfort it. At that moment, Joru arrived, riding his divine steed Jiangga Peibu like a gust of wind. Chao Tong’s muscles tensed in fear. Forgetting about his horse, he dashed madly toward the throne. Watching him, Joru let out a mocking laugh. Hearing Joru’s laughter, Chao Tong burned with anger. “You wretched beggar! Are you laughing at me?” “Honorable uncle, are you speaking to me?” Joru replied calmly. Chao Tong stopped running altogether. He turned to Joru and demanded, “Why are you opposing me? Why must you take the golden throne from the Darong family?” “Is the golden throne yours, Uncle?” Joru asked. “Of course! The Horsehead King prophesied this long ago. Everyone in Ling Gabu knows it!” Chao Tong shouted. “Well then, I’ll stand here and not move. Go ahead and claim it,” Joru said casually. “Stop playing tricks on me, Joru! As long as you’re here, I can’t get near the throne!” Chao Tong roared. “Why not? I wasn’t even near you earlier,” Joru said with a smirk. Chao Tong paused, his mind reeling. “That’s true. Joru wasn’t near me earlier. Could the Horsehead King’s prophecy have been wrong? Could the golden throne not belong to the Darong family? Could the prize of this race not be mine after all?” He turned his gaze to the Yuja Horse, its sorrowful eyes brimming with despair. Overwhelmed, Chao Tong collapsed to his knees, wrapped his arms around the horse’s neck, and sobbed uncontrollably. “Uncle, do you still want the race’s prize?” Joru asked. “No! No! I don’t want anything anymore. I only care about my Yuja Horse! Please, save my Yuja Horse!” Chao Tong cried out, his voice hoarse. “If I can heal your Yuja Horse, will you lend it to me for a task?” Joru asked. Chao Tong’s sobs stopped abruptly. Nodding repeatedly, he said, “Anything, Joru! Just make my Yuja Horse as good as it was before!” “I need it to carry tea to Jiana. Does that sound fair?” Joru asked with a sly grin. “Yes, yes! Whatever you need!” Chao Tong exclaimed, having completely forgotten about the throne. His only concern was saving his horse. Joru gently waved his whip, and the Yuja Horse leapt to its feet. He whispered a few words into the horse’s ear, and its exhausted demeanor vanished instantly. It stood tall and spirited, just as it had been before the race. Seeing his horse restored, Chao Tong’s desire for the golden throne surged once more. He grabbed the reins and prepared to mount the horse. But Joru stopped him. “Uncle, the Yuja Horse can only go back now. If you try to claim the throne again, it will never rise again.” Chao Tong saw the determination in Joru’s eyes and felt his intimidating aura. Though unwilling, he dared not challenge Joru further. Realizing the throne was beyond his reach, he reluctantly decided to prioritize his horse’s safety over his ambitions. Joru Ascends the Throne and Becomes King Gesar Joru stood before the golden throne, but he wasn’t in a hurry to sit down. Instead, he carefully observed the dazzling throne in front of him. How many people had gone mad over this throne? How many horses had bled and collapsed for it? Chao Tong had spent a fortune to host the horse race for it, and even his own divine steed was not unaffected by the struggle to reach it. Was it just a golden chair? No—it was a symbol of power, a symbol of wealth. Joru looked around: the sky was a clear blue, the grass was vibrant green, the snowy mountains sparkled like silver, and the rocks stood tall and majestic. Everything around him would belong to the person who sat on this throne. With this thought, Joru climbed onto the golden throne calmly. At that moment, the sky filled with auspicious clouds, and the Five Goddesses of Longevity appeared, riding a rainbow of brilliant colors. They held arrows adorned with jewels and a treasure vase. Queen Mandanaze carried a quiver and a divine mirror, while her sister-in-law, Guo Jia Guomu, held a treasure bottle. They led their attendants and many celestial beings, who all appeared together. Jiangga Peibu, Joru’s divine steed, stood proudly next to the throne and let out three long, resounding neighs. Instantly, the earth trembled, mountains cracked, and the gates to the treasure troves of crystal mountains swung open. Gods such as Machen Pomra, the fierce deity Getro, and the Dragon King Zounarenqing came to offer gifts. The gods presented victory items: a white helmet, bronze armor, a red vine shield, a tiger-skin quiver, and a leopard-skin bow case. They also brought a crystal spear, a divine longbow, and the indestructible robes of longevity. Joru stood tall as the gods bestowed upon him these treasures, dressing him in majestic armor and robes, transforming him into a magnificent and imposing king. The people who had come to watch the race were stunned by what they saw. It was the first time they had ever witnessed the gods perform such beautiful dances and play celestial music. They stood in awe, not knowing how to react, as if they were in a dream. From the moment he was born, Joru had been like a sun hidden behind clouds, like a lotus trapped in mud. Though he had done countless good deeds for the world, he had been misunderstood, rejected, and forced to wander far and wide, enduring immense hardships. Perhaps this was Heaven’s way of tempering him, making him endure human suffering before becoming a king, so he could truly understand the people and bring them prosperity. Finally, Joru ascended the throne and was officially named the World Lion King, Gesar Lobsang Dradul. After a spectacular celestial celebration, the gods slowly disappeared. The people of Ling Gabu, as if suddenly awakened, surged toward the throne and cheered for King Gesar. Their heartfelt cries of joy shook the mountains and the earth, with the clouds in the sky and the waves in the sea dancing in harmony. The people shouted, “The sun has finally emerged from behind the clouds! The lotus has finally broken free from the mud! Ling Gabu finally has its own king! Peace and prosperity are here at last!” Everyone fell silent, waiting for their new king to speak. King Gesar rose from the golden throne. He looked at the ecstatic crowd of people and paused for a moment. Then he spoke: “My brothers who raced, the people of Ling Gabu, I am the son of the gods, the grandson of the Dragon King. Today, I proclaim myself King Gesar Lobsang Dradul, the Lion King. Twelve years I have walked among you, enduring hardships and overcoming trials. Today, I finally sit on the golden throne, fulfilling Heaven’s will. But I must ask—do you sincerely accept me as your king?” The people of Ling Gabu immediately prostrated themselves. They had already witnessed the gods showering Gesar with flowers, rainbows, and celestial music when he ascended the throne. How could they not be convinced? Not only were they sincerely convinced, but they also felt this was the result of their prayers. Heaven had answered their devotion by sending a divine child to become their king. Gesar, seeing their sincerity, began to appoint officials and generals: “Since you have accepted me as king, I hereby appoint: Gacha Xiega as General of the East, to guard against the Sadan King of the Ginger Kingdom. Senda Adong as General of the South, to defend against the southern demon king, Sinchi. Chaxiang Danma as General of the West, to resist the Yellow Hor people. Rongcha Adan as General of the North, to guard against the enemies of Rong and the land of demons. Other than the public enemies of Ling Gabu, I, Gesar, have no personal enemies. Other than the public laws of the Tibetan people, I have no private laws. From this day forward, the people of Ling Gabu will embrace the ten virtues and abandon the ten evils. If we work together, peace will surely reign.” The crowd roared with approval, their voices echoing across the land. Everyone sincerely accepted Gesar as their king. Gifts and Celebrations Amid the thunderous cheers, the overseer Wang Rongchachagen presented the genealogy of the noble Mubudong family and five ceremonial flags to the Lion King: On the golden throne sits the Lion King of the World, With a face as radiant as a red date and teeth as white as snow. Gesar’s abilities are unmatched under Heaven. Above, adorned banners and rare flags flutter; In the middle, people sing joyfully; Below, the dragon clans offer treasures, And gentle rain nourishes blooming flowers. The gods above smile with joy, The people on earth sing and dance, The dragons below spread auspicious clouds, And the demons in hell mourn their defeat. This white flag is a symbol of the sun’s brilliance. This yellow flag sings the praises of power. This red flag represents auspiciousness. This green flag is a tribute to the Mother of the Earth. This blue flag is a ceremonial gift from the Dragon King Zounar. We present this genealogy to you, May you and your people never part. We present these flags to you, May you bring prosperity to all beings. After the overseer’s blessings, the brothers of Ling Gabu stepped forward with their own gifts. Gacha Xiega presented a white victory helmet adorned with silk plumes symbolizing the “Radiance of the Sun,” a victory banner with “Nine Layers of Fortune,” and eagle feathers symbolizing “The Sentinel of the Gods.” Gacha, overwhelmed with emotion at seeing his brother finally ascend the throne, sincerely wished that King Gesar’s helmet would remain steady and his power reach the skies. Danma offered bronze armor and a red vine shield. The armor was decorated with flags and symbols of longevity, while the shield shone with rainbows and clouds. The Seven Heroes presented seven indestructible robes of longevity. The Eight Warriors offered boots that symbolized dominion over the eight realms. The brothers of the Qijiu clan gifted a divine quiver, a leopard-skin bow case, and a finely crafted ceremonial bow. The brothers of the Zhenju clan presented an incredibly sharp treasure blade, a spear that could conquer three realms, and a nine-fathom-long frog-skin rope imbued with magical powers. Lastly, the brothers of the Qiongjue clan offered a crystal knife forged from thunderbolts, which shimmered with violet lightning. All the brothers collectively wished their powerful Lion King, Gesar: May you crush the Black Demon King, Defeat King Sinchi, Overcome the Hor King, Subdue King Sadan, Conquer the Four Great Evils, And sweep away all darkness from the four directions! Even Chao Tong stepped forward to bow and offer his congratulations. However, the once-arrogant Chao Tong was no longer the same. He had lost his pride and joy. While the people of Ling Gabu celebrated, Chao Tong was consumed by shame and sorrow. He stood among the brothers who were congratulating Joru, but inwardly, he wished he could devour Joru whole. Hatred buried itself deep in Chao Tong’s heart. One day, he vowed, he would take revenge and ease his burning hatred. For now, however, Chao Tong dared not show his true feelings. He maintained a façade of happiness and congratulated Joru. King Gesar, pretending not to notice, accepted Chao Tong’s ceremonial scarf and even gave him the items he had promised earlier—a staff used during his ascetic practices and a treasure pouch from the God of Wealth. Gesar also said, “These are my sacred items. I give them to you today, but when the time comes to slay the Demon King Luzan, I will need to borrow them again.” Chao Tong repeatedly bowed and said, “Your Majesty, rest assured. I will take good care of them and return them whenever you need.” At this moment, the gods showered flower petals like rain. The people of Ling Gabu struck the “Radiant and Glorious” ceremonial drums, blew the “Snow-White Resounding” conchs, and clashed the “Thunderous Dragon Roar” cymbals. The maidens danced and sang: Rejoice, Lion King! Be glad, people of Ling Gabu! Senjang Zumu, the peerless beauty, stepped gracefully out from the group of singing and dancing maidens. She carried a long ceremonial scarf draped over a treasure bowl from the God of Wealth. The bowl contained the Longevity Mother’s sacred wine and nectar of immortality. Smiling, she presented the offering to King Gesar and sang a beautiful blessing: Honorable Lion King Gesar, I am Senjang Zumu of the Jialuo clan. I offer thirteen ceremonial scarves, And the divine wine held in this treasure bowl. Wear these scarves for long life, Drink this wine to accomplish great deeds. Around your body that shines like a golden mountain, Let radiant clouds embrace you. May the brilliance of your weapons and your power Forever shine brightly! On your majestic body, Precious light radiates endlessly. May the blessings of nourishing rain Always accompany you and all beings, Lion King! On my delicate body, My youthful face like a lotus flower, Sparkling eyes full of life Are devoted to you, Lion King. On winding paths And in handling the affairs of your people, I will follow you like a shadow, Never leaving your side, Lion King. As Zumu sang, her sisters danced with even more grace. Zumu’s eyes shone with joy, making her even more beautiful and enchanting than usual. Gesar, deeply moved, left his throne, took Zumu’s hand, and together they danced among the people, celebrating in the midst of the joyous music and singing. From the moment Gesar officially became king after the horse race, the people of Ling Gabu lived in peace and happiness. They smiled from their hearts, and the Lion King Gesar ensured that their days were filled with prosperity. Gesar married Senjang Zumu as his queen, and their love was as harmonious as fish swimming in water. Zumu cherished the king’s bravery and handsomeness, while Gesar admired his queen’s beauty and diligence. Later, following tradition, Gesar married twelve more maidens, including Meisabungji, making Zumu and her twelve sisters the famous “Thirteen Queens of Ling Gabu.”

On the 10th day of the Tiger Month, as the sun crowned the mountains with gold, thirty heroes of Ling gathered in Darong at Chao Tong’s invitation. Among them were eight great heroes, seven warriors, and three generals, all accompanied by their respective entourages. Rows of fluttering banners and glimmering helmets created a majestic and awe-inspiring scene. K i n g G e s a r of Tibet The Legend from ling King Gesar (about 1038-1119 AD) was a legendary Tibetan hero who was born in Dege County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Later generations called him King Gesar of Ling. According to legend, King Gesar is also the incarnation of the Guru Rinpoche and his wisdom, compassion and power. Chapter 15: Chao Tong Hosts a Grand Banquet to Plan the Horse Race, The People of Ling Make Good Wishes to Welcome Joru Heroes Gather for the Grand Banquet On the 10th day of the Tiger Month, as the sun crowned the mountains with gold, thirty heroes of Ling gathered in Darong at Chao Tong’s invitation. Among them were eight great heroes, seven warriors, and three generals, all accompanied by their respective entourages. Rows of fluttering banners and glimmering helmets created a majestic and awe-inspiring scene. Chao Tong’s loyal servant, Akui Tabasolang, carried out his master’s orders and addressed the gathered heroes. He announced that Chao Tong had received a prophecy from the Horse-Headed Deity and declared that a grand horse race would soon be held. He asked the guests whether the 15th day of the month would be a suitable date for the race. “What will the winner of the race receive?” asked Gyacha Xiega. “You haven’t understood yet? The prophecy is clear: the seven treasures of Ling, the throne, and Sangjang Zumu will all be the stakes for this horse race!” Akui Tabasolang replied confidently, shaking his head. Like his master, he firmly believed that the victory would undoubtedly belong to Darong’s Jade Horse. Once Chao Tong became the King of Ling, Akui imagined himself being promoted to a high-ranking position, though he wasn’t sure what title he might receive. To ensure everyone understood, Akui began singing: “An old proverb says: Many seek beautiful women, but few succeed. Many hope for bountiful harvests, but few are blessed. With arrows, horses, and dice, we compete, Many crave the prize, but few win. Sangjang Zumu is Ling’s beauty, The throne is Ling’s power, The seven treasures are Ling’s wealth. Only through swift horses can they be won. Whoever’s horse runs the fastest Will win and fulfill their desires. Heaven’s will and men’s hearts align, But if you lose, don’t despair.” The Guests Understand Chao Tong’s Intentions Gyacha, Senda, and the other brothers quickly understood Chao Tong’s intentions. He wanted to use the horse race as a legitimate and honorable way to claim Ling’s golden throne, secure the power to rule over Ling, and win the hand of the beautiful Sangjang Zumu. Although the guests understood Chao Tong’s motives, they were dissatisfied with his methods. However, they couldn’t openly refute his self-righteous arguments. Instead, they turned to the chief steward, Wang Rong Chachagen, to see how he would respond. The steward had been pondering how to counter Chao Tong’s scheme. Suddenly, he recalled a prophecy from the gods made to him over a decade ago: “At the age of twelve, a boy will win the stakes of a horse race, like the golden sun rising over the eastern mountains.” Remembering this prophecy, the old steward’s face lit up with a smile. He said: “Oh, Akui Tabasolang, you’re absolutely right. Winning the stakes of a horse race is the most honorable and fair way to claim the throne, treasures, and Sangjang Zumu. Everyone knows that Sangjang Zumu is extraordinarily beautiful, and the Jara family is incredibly wealthy—there’s no comparison. Let’s follow the prophecy and set them as the stakes for the horse race.” After a pause, he continued: “However, in the dead of winter, with snow covering the mountains and icy winds sweeping the valleys, holding a horse race now is dangerous. On frozen ground, heroes could fall off cliffs, and horses could injure themselves. I suggest postponing the race to a later date. For now, let’s invite everyone in Ling, regardless of status, to a grand feast on the 15th. We can discuss the details of the race during the banquet.” Preparations, the Grand Feast, and Chao Tong’s Hidden Agenda Gyacha understood the intention of Steward Wang Rong Chachagen. Delaying the date of the horse race was meant to give Joru enough time to be notified and prepare. Understanding this, Gyacha nodded in agreement. There were only five days left until the 15th day of the Tiger Month. Even so, Chao Tong felt the wait was too long. He wished the horse race could take place immediately, and he hated that the 15th would be spent discussing details at the banquet instead of holding the race. The sooner the horse race happened, the sooner he could ascend to the throne, claim the seven treasures, and marry Sangjang Zumu. In Chao Tong’s mind, these five days felt longer than five years. Restless and impatient, he spent these difficult days making arrangements. He worked tirelessly to ensure the banquet would be as grand and luxurious as possible, intending to display his wealth and cleverness. Chao Tong also harbored a secret thought, one he had never shared with anyone: through this banquet—essentially a preparatory meeting for the horse race—he hoped to gain the favor of the people. This, he believed, would make it easier to rule the Ling tribes once he became king. Finally, the 15th day of the Tiger Month arrived. The guests who came to the banquet were numerous, filling the area with life and energy. There were uncles and elders as dignified as Mount Sumeru, aunts and sisters-in-law as steady as a frozen sea, young men as sharp as bamboo arrows ready to be launched, and young women as beautiful as summer flowers. All of them crowded toward the grand tent of Darong. The scene was so lively that it overwhelmed the chief seating arranger, the Grand Arbiter Weimala. He was busy assigning seats according to the status of each guest within the Ling Kingdom. Standing in the center of the commotion, he sang to invite the guests to their seats: “Oh Sodog, deity of Machen Mountain, Gods, dragon spirits, and deities of blessings, Weimala, the Arbiter, calls for your aid today! This place, near the Darong Fortress, Is called Gongga Rewa, the gathering site. The great tent of Chixiong Guomu Is the hall where discussions will take place. If you do not know me, I am Weimala, the Arbiter. Today’s weather is full of joy and celebration. First joy: all brothers have gathered in harmony. Second joy: the prophecy brings auspicious blessings. Third joy: heroes discuss the horse race. Fourth joy: the Darong family hosts the feast. Fifth joy: a grand celebration is held. By my hand as Arbiter, I shall assign every seat.” On the silver chairs with silk cushions, the four noble sons shall sit: Gyacha Xiega Serpa Nipendaya Wenbu Arubasen Mujang Renqing Daru The noble sons are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions in the center, covered with silk: Uncle Steward Wang The Wrathful King of Darong King Senlun Kama Langka Senxie Guru Jianzang Dunba Jianzang Garu Nima Jianzang Naru Taba Jianzang The four men named Jianzang are invited to take their seats, and all other uncles and elders are also invited to join. On the thick cushions on the right, covered with grass leopard-patterned hides: The Chief of Darong, Sipan Garde Qujiong Bena Dongqu Lubu Dapan Bala Senda Adong Chaxiang Danma Jiangcha Bagui Niancha Adan Dongzan Langdu Aban Guibo Nima Wuzhu The heroes are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions on the left, covered with tiger-patterned hides: Miqin Jiewa Dongben Ceze Jiaben Segangmen Yuya Gongbu Serpa Buqiong Cangba Eru Dazong Eru Shencha Eru The three men named Eru are invited to take their seats, and all others are asked to sit according to their rank. On the thick cushions in the right corner, covered with leopard-patterned hides: Rongcha Lobu Lata Angqiong Yuye Meiduo Jialuo Buya Zhujie Jiao Aba Seda Wa Kongba Buye Jiacha Jiana Chief Sensen Wenbu Jiangchi Angqing Muba Xiega Jiangzha The brothers are invited to take their seats in order. On the thick cushions in the left corner, covered with white bear-patterned hides: Lingqin Daba Solang Aba Buye Ban Jue The impartial judge Dapan I, Weimala, the Arbiter The divine doctor Gongga Nima The fortune-teller Gunxie Tibu The astrologer Lawu Yangga The magician Kaqie Mima Family and friends are invited to take their seats in order. On the silk cushions in the back right: Sangjang Zumu of the Jara family Laichong Lugu Chaya The steward’s daughter Yuzhen Zhuoluo Baiga Nazhe Chaxiang’s daughter Zhenzhen Yata’s daughter Saicuo The daughter of Darong, Chao Mucuo The seven beauties of Ling are invited to take their seats first, and the other women of Ling are invited to sit in order. On the silk cushions in the back left: The Tibetan consort Zaxi Lacuo The Han consort Naga Zhuoma The Khare consort Sucuo The Pachin consort Gecuo The mothers and aunts are invited to take their seats. On the long, single-layered cushions: The young noble Michong Kade The servant Guoqu Baji Danyu Akui Tabasolang Qixie Buye Guru All are invited to take their seats in order of age. At the highest point of the white ceremonial tent, no invitation is needed; the master will find his own seat. “Today is a joyous feast, I invite everyone to sing a song. Welcome the beauties to dance a tune. Uncles and elders, let us discuss with joy. May the blue sky not envy this life. May the earth not resent this gathering. May Tibet not exaggerate this event into disaster.” Guests Feast and Chao Tong Sings His Hidden Agenda Once the Grand Arbiter had seated the prominent and wealthy individuals of Ling, the remaining guests were left to sit wherever they liked. People feasted on fruits, meats, and snacks that tasted like heavenly nectar, and drank wine and tea that flowed like rivers. After eating and drinking to their hearts’ content, the young men sang joyful songs while the young women danced gracefully to the music. As everyone enjoyed themselves, Chao Tong, the King of Darong, stood up and began explaining the purpose of the banquet. He recounted the prophecy delivered by the Horse-Headed Deity and the joy the upcoming horse race would bring. He then sang to the crowd: "Among thirty heroes, No matter how skilled, ranks must be set. Among the many tribes of Ling, The people need a chief to lead them. This horse race will settle it— The winner shall be king and lead the people. In my white tent, All are equal, regardless of status. From the noble sons to the poorest beggar, Everyone has the right to compete in the race, Everyone has a chance to claim the throne. How fast a horse runs Depends on the water and grass it has overnight. How strong a hero is Depends on his lifelong training. Whether the horse wins or loses Determines the rise or fall of one’s destiny. When should the race be held? Should the track be long or short? Let us discuss these matters, brothers!" Chao Tong, though hiding his ulterior motives, spoke with a honeyed tongue. He was eloquent, able to twist black into white, square into round, and death into life. His song made it seem as though he was advocating for fairness and equality, giving everyone an equal chance to win. The gathered heroes, not detecting any ill intent behind his words, began discussing as instructed. Steward Wang and Gyacha Advocate for Joru Steward Wang Rong Chachagen did not want to expose Chao Tong’s scheme because he believed in the prophecy given by the gods—that Joru would win the horse race. However, he noticed that in this grand gathering of Ling’s people, Joru and his mother were nowhere to be seen. If Joru wasn’t informed about the race, how could he win? Wouldn’t that allow Chao Tong’s plot to succeed? Thinking of this, Steward Wang stood up and said to everyone: “Judging from the movement of the stars in the sky, the seasonal changes on the earth, and the prophecy of the gods above, there is no reason not to hold this horse race. However, I suggest that every member of the Mubudong family, no matter whether they live in the upper or lower regions of Ling, must be informed. Otherwise, if someone later complains that they weren’t notified and demand a share of the stakes, it will cause unnecessary disputes. As the saying goes: ‘A foolish woman churns frozen milk in winter— She won’t get butter and will only freeze her hands. A foolish man races horses on frozen ground— He won’t flatten the earth and will only injure himself.’ Also, it is unreasonable to make the people of Ling travel great distances in the cold to watch the race—they may not say it aloud, but they will harbor resentment. Furthermore, in such conditions, even the best horses cannot perform well. In the warm months of May or June, when the grass is lush, it will not only be the best time for the race but also a joyful experience for everyone watching.” The steward’s implication was to delay the race and give Joru time to prepare and return. Gyacha Xiega understood this but felt it wasn’t appropriate for the steward to say it outright. So, Gyacha stood up and said: “This horse race, proposed by Uncle Chao Tong and approved by Steward Wang, is a major event. As the saying goes: ‘Though a leg of lamb is small, it still belongs to the sheep. Though a colt is small, it still belongs to the steed. Though a person is small, he is still his uncle’s nephew.’ The royal descendant of the Mubudong family—my younger brother, Steward Wang’s nephew, and the son of Mother Guomu—is still a part of Ling’s royal lineage. Though he has been exiled, he is still your nephew, Uncle Chao Tong. Guomu is the daughter of the Dragon King and the queen of King Senlun. She and her son are treasures of Ling. When the horse race determines the throne, treasures, and Sangjang Zumu, how can we not invite him? If Joru is not included, the people of my branch will refuse to participate in the race or compete for the stakes.” Joru’s Absence and Chao Tong’s Manipulations Gyacha continued, his voice filled with both passion and frustration: “Right now, my poor brother Joru lives in exile, far from his homeland. He has no wealth, no position, and no home to call his own. He shelters in caves, struggling to survive. He fights with dogs over bones and competes with chickens for scraps of grain. In his current state, how could he possibly dream of winning a horse race or claiming any prize? Yet, here we are, gathered for a feast as brothers, and not even the lowest seat has been reserved for him. Isn’t this going too far? Am I wrong to say so? Please, everyone, weigh my words in your hearts!” Hearing the words of Steward Wang and Gyacha, Chao Tong’s heart burned with anger. He thought to himself: “That wretched Joru! He’s nothing but a lowborn fool, unfit for the world. Even his mother, Guomu, was rotten to the core when she carried him in her womb. Yet, Steward Wang keeps fawning over him, and Gyacha won’t stop clamoring to have him brought back to participate in the race. But what’s the point? Joru lacks the cunning to win anything. That twelve-year-old brat couldn’t possibly claim victory in the race. Even if the prize were handed to him, he’d likely push it away with his tongue. And if, by some miracle, he won the race, he’d probably give away the throne, the treasures, and Sangjang Zumu to someone else. The people of his branch family overestimate him, and Dansa speaks of him as if he’s some divine figure. They’re mistaking brass for gold—Joru doesn’t even value himself.” Feigning agreement, Chao Tong said aloud: “Gyacha Xiega, you’re right. As the noble son of King Senlun and the blood relative of Guomu, Joru’s absence from this feast is indeed regrettable. But it’s not my fault he hasn’t been invited—it was your branch family’s responsibility to call him. Now, what’s most important is deciding the route and timing of the horse race.” The Race Route Debate and Settling Plans Chao Tong’s son, Dongzan Langdu Aban, could no longer keep quiet. He blurted out arrogantly: “If our Ling Kingdom’s horse race route is too short, we’ll be ridiculed. If the race isn’t grand enough, we’ll be shamed. To make this race famous across the world, the starting point should be at Jiaga and the finish line at Jiana.” The other brothers found Dongzan’s words boastful and ridiculous. Senda, from the middle branch, responded sarcastically: “Oh, if you want to hold a world-famous horse race, then the starting point should be in the sky, and the finish line in the depths of the sea. The stakes should be the sun and the moon, and the people of Ling should watch the race from the heavens.” The gathered brothers and people burst into laughter. Senda’s sharp wit was too much for Dongzan, whose face turned red with embarrassment. The veins on his neck bulged, but he had no response. Gyacha Xiega stepped in to calm the crowd. He proposed a practical plan that satisfied everyone and even saved Dongzan from further humiliation. Ultimately, the group agreed on Gyacha’s suggestion: The starting point of the race would be Ayudi Mountain. The finish line would be Gure Stone Mountain. Prayers and incense offerings would be held on the summit of Ludi Mountain. The people would gather on Radi Mountain to watch the race. The event would take place in summer when the weather was warm, and the grass was lush. Steward Wang, seeing that a general plan had been settled, worried that Chao Tong or other heroes might later go back on their word. To prevent this, he said: “For such an important matter, I fear it might stir discord among the brothers. Let us ask the Grand Arbiter and the impartial judge, Dapan, to sing a song of fair judgment to finalize the decision.” Arbiter Dapan’s Song of Justice At this moment, the Grand Arbiter had completed arranging the seating for the banquet. The impartial and highly respected judge, Dapan, understood that Steward Wang’s suggestion was directed at him. With a cheerful and melodic tone, he sang a song of judgment to finalize the decision: "First, we invite the celestial god Brahma, Second, we invite the wise deity King Gezhuo, Third, we invite Zouna Renqing, the Dragon King of the Seas, May they bless the people of Ling today! Though I, Dapan, serve as the mediator, Power is only granted by three conditions: First, blessings and authority determined by past lives, Second, fairness and integrity as steady as a ruler, Third, inheriting a role from father to son. This year’s horse race in Ling, All necessary conditions have been met: Gentle sunlight shines upon us, The earth is warm, and the air is moist, Dragons roar in the sky, Rain descends gently from the heavens. Green meadows are covered in blooming flowers, The summer season is perfect for the event. All the brothers of Ling will race, And Joru must not be excluded. We should send someone to invite him. Whether he wins the prize or not depends on his fate. This horse race in Ling will be a grand spectacle, A rare event in history. Such joyous news should be spread So the whole world can know. Let us see who will claim victory in the race, Holding the divine spear and arrow to win the prize. The seven treasures, not previously described in detail, Shall now be explained one by one: The golden throne that commands the three realms, The incomparable beauty, Sangjang Zumu, The seven treasures passed down by the Jara family, The twelve scrolls of the Jilong Sutra, The Dragon King’s black grand tent, The wooden fortress of Dazong, The twelve thousand households of Ling’s people. From the highest-ranking Steward Wang To the humblest beggar Gulu, Whoever has the skill may claim these prizes. This is the decision of the uncles and elders. The thirteen spiritual masters of Ling, Led by Gunga, Gejie, and Taben, Will pray to the gods for blessings. We will burn incense and worship the war gods. May the warhorses remain unharmed, May the brothers be free from insult or injury. The key points have been stated clearly, But let me leave a few reminders: Public virtue is like the crescent moon on the third night— Though not yet full, it will grow brighter and rounder. Private desires are like the full moon on the sixteenth night— Though round, it will inevitably wane and darken. Power is but an ornament of the world, Too precious to gamble in a horse race. Everyone wishes to keep it for themselves, But selfishness will only cause disputes. If Ling is divided by conflict, There will be no peace, And the horse race would be better left undone. Whether or not one wins depends on fate, Not on the speed of a beast. If one is not destined to rule, Even the fastest steed will fail. These words may seem unreasonable, But they are heartfelt truths, not mere jest. This year’s horse race in Ling, Is both the will of the heavens and the wish of the people. May the prophecy of the northern deity come true, May all desires be fulfilled! May the spiritual masters bestow their blessings, May the deities remove disasters! May the guardians protect great achievements, May the local spirits ensure peace and safety! May joy and fortune fill everyone’s hearts. My words are spoken with good intentions, Let the people of Ling remember them well!" Heroes Accept the Decision, but Hidden Thoughts Remain People always admire those who are fair and just, and this is an undeniable truth. After hearing Dapan’s judgment, all the heroes agreed that it was reasonable. They expressed their determination to follow the decision and happily returned to their respective tribes. As the saying goes, “A decision made by someone wearing a sheepskin cannot be overturned by someone wearing a tiger’s skin.” However, there were three individuals with their own private thoughts and hidden plans. First was Gyacha Xiega. While he didn’t desire the prize or the throne for himself, he worried that Dongzan might win the race and claim the stakes. He secretly resolved: “I must remain vigilant. As long as the courage of the heroes hasn’t completely dwindled, I cannot let Chao Tong’s scheme succeed.” Next was Chao Tong, the King of Darong. He was deeply worried: “If Joru returns to Ling, the consequences will be disastrous. I must do everything in my power to prevent Joru from joining the brothers in the race.” Finally, there was the poor beggar Joru. He was utterly destitute, worrying about his lack of fine clothing, treasures, or any means to participate in the race. Notes Burning Sang: "Sang" is a Tibetan term referring to sacrificial offerings, often made from juniper branches or aromatic shrubs. "Burning" is the verb, so "Burning Sang" means burning incense as an offering to deities.