A Letter from Gyalwa Karmapa concerning bomb attacks in Bodhgaya.

I am deeply saddened to hear of the bomb attacks at the sacred place of Bodh Gaya this morning.My heartfelt prayers go to both the victims and the attackers. We are living in the 21st century, where more information than ever before is available, to help us understand our world, ourselves and our human history. If there is one thing that history teaches us, it is that violence of any kind does not benefit anyone, and runs counter to our innate qualities of wisdom and compassion.Violence of all kinds stems from ignorance, and can only be tackled through understanding. Ignorance only leads to misunderstanding, and disturbing emotions, such as anger, fear, hatred and confusion.

I pray that we are all able to respond with compassion to all those affected by this tragic event. When we meditate and tap into our limitless pool of inner wealth, we find understanding and our innate qualities of compassion and wisdom. Compassion brings peace in our heart, and ultimately to the world.

I pray that we may respond to violence with compassion, and find solace and understanding in our innate qualities

Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje