Highlight #3: Huaden Lhamo Caves in Henan
So as the legend goes…there was a cruel, wrathful diety who ruled over North Eastern Tibet. He cared nothing for other beings, slaying humans and livestock where ever he went, causing immense suffering. Seeing that nothing would disuade him from doing harm, his goddess wife after many failed attempts finally divised a fool-proof plan. Being equally fierce in her compassion, she murdered the couple’s only son, allowing her husband to feel the pain that he had been so recklessly causing. This is that bodhisattva’s abode, Huaden Lhamo, the protector of this part of the Amdo grassland.
It’s a story that would easily send chills up one’s spine, especially since the shrine was nearly abandoned, caves lurking close by. Murdered babies? Dismembered animal parts (at the entrance)? Statues with manical smiles hidden in the dark? My head missing!?
That’s real fear on my face people. And nervous relief!
