History
Venerable Pannavati, Bhikkhuni Maha Theri and Venerable Pannadipa, Maha Thero (deceased) founded Embracing Simplicity Hermitage, a 21st century trans-lineage Buddhist Order in 2004. Ven. Pannavati ordained in Theravada and Mahayana traditions with certain Vajrayana empowerments she is authorized to share. So, Heartwood, since its inception, has been neither defined by a single lineage, nor confined by any single sect or practice. In the past, Embracing Simplicity has offered both lay ordination and Theravada monastic ordination. Going forward, we are allowing guidance regarding the Buddha’s last instructions prior to entering parinirvana regarding the vinaya. He said, “After I am gone, if the sangha wishes, Ananda, it may abolish the lesser and minor rules.” It is said that out of respect, the sangha changed nothing. Is it possible that in His infinite wisdom, the Buddha understood that what was a support in that place and time could become an impediment today, hindering the flourishing of contemporary Buddhist monasticism?
There is no Dharma lineage of Dorje Chang Buddha III in this world! There is also no Dharma lineage of any Dharma masters! The only Dharma lineage in this world is called Buddhism. Again, what Dharma lineage is this? It is called Buddhism: The Buddhism of Shakyamuni Buddha, and the Buddhism of all Buddhas in the ten directions.
…To say that you follow the lineage of Dorje Chang Buddha III is absolutely nonsense, and it is a non-Buddhist way of thinking. Dorje Chang Buddha III does not come from any lineage, only Buddhism! Remember this forever.
As to those so-called lineages, groups, patriarchs, sects, or schools, they are all factions. They are factions established over time by patriarchs after Shakyamuni Buddha entered parinirvana. They are called factions. Keep this in mind forever. Regardless of how accomplished those patriarchs were, what they established are still factions because within Buddhism, there is only the teaching of the Buddha, and there is only one lineage
…All I have is Buddhism—the authentic and unaltered teachings of the Buddhas in the ten directions, and that is what I impart directly.
-H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III
