G.A. Viray
A mummified monk found in Mongolia is believed by Buddhists to be only meditating. Buddhist mummies are also called “living buddhas” or Sokushinbutsu. These mummies are bodies of Buddhist monks and nuns that have not decomposed and are believed to be successful in mortifying their flesh to death.
According to Independent, the mummified monk was found wrapped in animal hide in a lotus position called where vajra, the left hand is opened, and the right hand symbolizes of the preaching Sutra.
This is a sign that the Lama is not dead, but is in a very deep meditation according to the ancient tradition of Buddhist lamas.
According to Time, Dr. Barry Kerzin, a famous monk and physician to the Dalai Lama also said that being in the meditative state called “tukdam” is not only one step away from becoming a Buddha but it can also bring to joy to others.
Reaching such a high spiritual level the meditator will also help others, and all the people around will feel a deep sense of joy.
In a recent news from NDTV, the body of the mummified monk is believed to be the teacher of 12th Pandito Hambo Lama Dashi-Dorzho Itigilov, who was Russia’s spiritual leader. His body was also found in the same lotus position. Itigilov told his students that he was planning to die and exhume his body after 30 years. His body was also found to be incorrupt.
Photo Credit: Buddhist Channel
The mummified monk, which is believed to be 200 years old, is currently in the possession of Ulaanbataar National Centre of Forensic Expertise for examination.
