Le 16 novembre 2016, Sogyal, le gourou
tibétain de Rigpa, était au
RAI Amsterdam (ou RAI complexe de halls d'exposition destiné à
accueillir de grandes manifestations événementielles à Amsterdam
aux Pays-Bas), pour y enseigner.
Le public fut
accueilli par une protestation silencieuse dénonçant les « abus
sexuels et psychologiques » commis par le gourou.
Le journaliste d'enquête
néerlandais Dirk Mostert de Brandpunt (KRO-NCRV) a enquêté sur les
abus sexuels commis par des enseignants bouddhistes, avec un accent
particulier sur Sogyal Lakar (alias Sogyal Rinpoché) et son
organisation internationale Rigpa.
Sogyal
and Rigpa on Dutch TV (Brandpunt 13-06-2017)
The
English manuscript of the documentary.
Sacha
de Boer00:00:00.00
And now: abuse within the Buddhist community. A peaceful, cuddly religion. Incense, meditation, monks that are fond of laughing, and, above all, very ‘zen’: that is our idea of Buddhism. But it has a very different side as well, which is hardly ever discussed. A world of abuse of power, sexual abuse, and violence. How is it possible that a religion that is thought to be so peaceful, enables monks and gurus with wrong ideas?
And now: abuse within the Buddhist community. A peaceful, cuddly religion. Incense, meditation, monks that are fond of laughing, and, above all, very ‘zen’: that is our idea of Buddhism. But it has a very different side as well, which is hardly ever discussed. A world of abuse of power, sexual abuse, and violence. How is it possible that a religion that is thought to be so peaceful, enables monks and gurus with wrong ideas?
Rob
Hogendoorn00:00:28.17
People assume that any person from Asia wearing yellow ochre robes is respectable. And that is just not true.
People assume that any person from Asia wearing yellow ochre robes is respectable. And that is just not true.
Oane
Bijlsma00:00:28.60
He said: “Look! Look!”, as he showed an image of a Tibetan deity with an enormous erection, a fat, veined erection, forcing me to watch.
He said: “Look! Look!”, as he showed an image of a Tibetan deity with an enormous erection, a fat, veined erection, forcing me to watch.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:00:41.00
This is Sogyal. Sogyal abuses a number of young female members in his entourage.
This is Sogyal. Sogyal abuses a number of young female members in his entourage.
Olivier
Raurich00:00:51.56
The system is such that the bad Lama can do anything: he can ask money, sex, he can ask anything.
The system is such that the bad Lama can do anything: he can ask money, sex, he can ask anything.
Ron
Sinnige00:00:55.40
Over here, it’s very easy to pose as a teacher. Nobody knows what you did in Tibet or Japan: perhaps you were a butcher on the next corner.
Over here, it’s very easy to pose as a teacher. Nobody knows what you did in Tibet or Japan: perhaps you were a butcher on the next corner.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:01:09.60
There’s a lot of dead wood.
There’s a lot of dead wood.
Oane
Bijlsma00:01:10.39
Indeed, a gross abuse of power.
Indeed, a gross abuse of power.
Voice-over00:01:13.28
At thirty, Oane Bijlsma is not quite sure what to do with the rest of her life. A friend suggests that she might join a meditation course.
At thirty, Oane Bijlsma is not quite sure what to do with the rest of her life. A friend suggests that she might join a meditation course.
Oane
Bijlsma00:01:22.04
At first, it did not mean much. But I was looking for something, and the idea of learning more about meditation and practicing meditation appealed to me. I thought the first night was really good.
At first, it did not mean much. But I was looking for something, and the idea of learning more about meditation and practicing meditation appealed to me. I thought the first night was really good.
Voice-over00:01:42.88
Very quickly, Oane immerses herself completely in the practice of meditation. She starts here, at the Buddhist organization Rigpa in Amsterdam. Because she wants to intensify her meditation practice, she spends time at Lerab Ling, Rigpa’s headquarters in the South of France. There, she meets Rigpa’s great spiritual leader: Sogyal Rinpoche.
Very quickly, Oane immerses herself completely in the practice of meditation. She starts here, at the Buddhist organization Rigpa in Amsterdam. Because she wants to intensify her meditation practice, she spends time at Lerab Ling, Rigpa’s headquarters in the South of France. There, she meets Rigpa’s great spiritual leader: Sogyal Rinpoche.
Oane
Bijlsma00:02:02.20
He is a Tibetan Lama with a portly build, who has certain mannerisms and a quaint accent, which suggest that he is somehow different.
He is a Tibetan Lama with a portly build, who has certain mannerisms and a quaint accent, which suggest that he is somehow different.
Dirk
Mostert00:02:21.68
And that is thought of as inspiring?
And that is thought of as inspiring?
Oane
Bijlsma00:02:23.40
Yes. At first, you might believe him to be wise because of the one-liners and stock phrases he uses. His stories suggest much of what is thought of in the West as being Buddhist wisdom.
Yes. At first, you might believe him to be wise because of the one-liners and stock phrases he uses. His stories suggest much of what is thought of in the West as being Buddhist wisdom.
Voice-over00:02:44.63
In France, Oane is inspired by her spiritual leader. She is not alone. Sogyal has thousands of followers worldwide, some of whom come from the Netherlands. At the end of May, they gather in this venue near Amsterdam. Sogyal is leading the yearly Amsterdam City Retreat.
In France, Oane is inspired by her spiritual leader. She is not alone. Sogyal has thousands of followers worldwide, some of whom come from the Netherlands. At the end of May, they gather in this venue near Amsterdam. Sogyal is leading the yearly Amsterdam City Retreat.
Dirk
Mostert00:02:55.98
Good morning madam, can I ask you a question?
Good morning madam, can I ask you a question?
Passer-by
100:02:56.96
That depends.
That depends.
Dirk
Mostert00:03:01.41
Why are you here?
Why are you here?
Passer-by
100:03:05.64
Sogyal Rinpoche, the retreat.
Sogyal Rinpoche, the retreat.
Dirk
Mostert00:03:07.91
What does he mean to you?
What does he mean to you?
Passer-by
100:03:08.36
Very much. Good advice, and wisdom.
Very much. Good advice, and wisdom.
Passer-by
200:03:13.96
To me he is a spiritual teacher who is very great help in day to day life.
To me he is a spiritual teacher who is very great help in day to day life.
Passer-by
300:03:22.60
He is a very inspiring man.
He is a very inspiring man.
Passer-by
400:03:24.32
It makes me glad and happy, and he has a great part in that.
It makes me glad and happy, and he has a great part in that.
Dirk
Mostert00:03:28.54
Enjoy yourself, bye.
Enjoy yourself, bye.
Voice-over00:03:28.64
Back to Oane: She enjoys life in Lerab Ling a lot. She starts to volunteer. Moreover, she has a relationship with one of Sogyal’s confidants. This gives her direct access to the spiritual leader, so that she can observe him behind the scenes.
Back to Oane: She enjoys life in Lerab Ling a lot. She starts to volunteer. Moreover, she has a relationship with one of Sogyal’s confidants. This gives her direct access to the spiritual leader, so that she can observe him behind the scenes.
Dirk
Mostert00:03:48.02
How does he behave?
How does he behave?
Oane
Bijlsma00:03:48.12
He is a real tyrant. He behaves as if he has a natural right to demand anything, anytime—no matter if it is in the middle of the night, or from the other side of the world. His will alone is the law.
He is a real tyrant. He behaves as if he has a natural right to demand anything, anytime—no matter if it is in the middle of the night, or from the other side of the world. His will alone is the law.
Voice-over00:04:09.80
Who is this Sogyal Rinpoche? Why does he behave like a tyrant? The answer comes from researcher and publicist Rob Hogendoorn. He is a practicing Buddhist, and he has been researching Buddhism and spiritual leaders for years. Sogyal Rinpoche is one of them.
Who is this Sogyal Rinpoche? Why does he behave like a tyrant? The answer comes from researcher and publicist Rob Hogendoorn. He is a practicing Buddhist, and he has been researching Buddhism and spiritual leaders for years. Sogyal Rinpoche is one of them.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:04:28.08
Sometimes Sogyal takes some food in his mouth, chews on it, and hands that bite to a follower who is expected to chew on it some more. It has been documented that Sogyal gathers members of his entourage around him while he is taking a crap.
Sometimes Sogyal takes some food in his mouth, chews on it, and hands that bite to a follower who is expected to chew on it some more. It has been documented that Sogyal gathers members of his entourage around him while he is taking a crap.
Voice-over00:04:50.13
Sogyal has been active in Europe since the 1970s. Dozens of lectures are available on the internet.
Sogyal has been active in Europe since the 1970s. Dozens of lectures are available on the internet.
Sogyal00:04:55.44
Then the trouble with us, is that we have so many stories. Stories, stories, stories.
Then the trouble with us, is that we have so many stories. Stories, stories, stories.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:04:56.80
There are two Sogyals. According to Sogyal himself, he is a highly realized Tibetan master, who has been spoonfed on enlightenment, so to speak, which is supposedly why he behaves as enlightened as he does. The Sogyal of the facts on the ground, however, is a son of a family of traders. After his flight from Tibet, this Sogyal was first trained by French friars, and later by English Anglicans. He does not know the Tibetan tradition from the inside out at all.
There are two Sogyals. According to Sogyal himself, he is a highly realized Tibetan master, who has been spoonfed on enlightenment, so to speak, which is supposedly why he behaves as enlightened as he does. The Sogyal of the facts on the ground, however, is a son of a family of traders. After his flight from Tibet, this Sogyal was first trained by French friars, and later by English Anglicans. He does not know the Tibetan tradition from the inside out at all.
Voice-over00:05:40.98
According to Hogendoorn, Sogyal is nothing but a merchant’s son from Tibet who has set himself up as a spiritual leader with a YouTube channel and meditation centers in 40 countries.
According to Hogendoorn, Sogyal is nothing but a merchant’s son from Tibet who has set himself up as a spiritual leader with a YouTube channel and meditation centers in 40 countries.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:05:45.52
Apparently, some day he found that he could launch himself as a Lama, and he did just that.
Apparently, some day he found that he could launch himself as a Lama, and he did just that.
Sogyal00:05:52.64
It is there when you are happy. It is there when you are sad. It is there when you are lonely.
It is there when you are happy. It is there when you are sad. It is there when you are lonely.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:06:06.86
He is not a monk, but he is wearing a garb that hints at a monk’s robe. This appeals to the perception and appreciation of all things Asian and exotic. Because this film offfers no journalistic perspective, viewers would never surmise that something is wrong.
He is not a monk, but he is wearing a garb that hints at a monk’s robe. This appeals to the perception and appreciation of all things Asian and exotic. Because this film offfers no journalistic perspective, viewers would never surmise that something is wrong.
Voice-over00:06:23.00
But there is definitely something wrong. Clearly, Sogyal likes to surround himself with attractive young women. They are called ‘dakini’s’ and form an inner circle. Here, they appear during a ceremony in Lerab Ling.
But there is definitely something wrong. Clearly, Sogyal likes to surround himself with attractive young women. They are called ‘dakini’s’ and form an inner circle. Here, they appear during a ceremony in Lerab Ling.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:06:44.11
Sogyal surrounds himself with an entourage of followers and he abuses young women that belong to that entourage.
Sogyal surrounds himself with an entourage of followers and he abuses young women that belong to that entourage.
Oane
Bijlsma00:06:52.56
At the time, several people told me that Sogyal enters into a ‘contract’ with members of the inner circle. Whoever asks him ‘work with me’, allows him to demonstrate unacceptable behaviour towards him or her. From then on, Sogyal has ‘permission’, so to speak, to beat you, have sex with you.
At the time, several people told me that Sogyal enters into a ‘contract’ with members of the inner circle. Whoever asks him ‘work with me’, allows him to demonstrate unacceptable behaviour towards him or her. From then on, Sogyal has ‘permission’, so to speak, to beat you, have sex with you.
Dirk
Mostert00:07:27.00
Whenever and however he likes?
Whenever and however he likes?
Oane
Bijlsma00:07:27.10
Exactly.
Exactly.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:07:27.24
Supposedly, his sexual relations with these young women fall within the scope of ‘tantra’. Another excuse would be ‘guru devotion’, a submission to the teacher that is supposed to accept anything he does, without protest. And his behaviour is also legitimized with the notion of ‘crazy wisdom’. This would be a form of wisdom that is beyond the ken of ordinary mortals, looks crazy, and is supposed to assist Sogyals followers on their spiritual path. This then would turn beating a student from being downright crazy into wise.
Supposedly, his sexual relations with these young women fall within the scope of ‘tantra’. Another excuse would be ‘guru devotion’, a submission to the teacher that is supposed to accept anything he does, without protest. And his behaviour is also legitimized with the notion of ‘crazy wisdom’. This would be a form of wisdom that is beyond the ken of ordinary mortals, looks crazy, and is supposed to assist Sogyals followers on their spiritual path. This then would turn beating a student from being downright crazy into wise.
Voice-over00:08:06.91
During our investigation, we receive rather risqué photographs from an anonymous source. These photographs, that were never shown in public before, show ‘dakini’s’ in provocative clothing and partly nude. They also show Sogyal in a way that is unfamiliar to most people. We showed the photographs to Oane.
During our investigation, we receive rather risqué photographs from an anonymous source. These photographs, that were never shown in public before, show ‘dakini’s’ in provocative clothing and partly nude. They also show Sogyal in a way that is unfamiliar to most people. We showed the photographs to Oane.
Oane
Bijlsma00:08:29.12
I know both of these girls. They belonged to the inner circle at the time when I met them first in 2011, and still do. To be frank, these photographs confirm the image of Sogyal having a harem and actually living this way.
I know both of these girls. They belonged to the inner circle at the time when I met them first in 2011, and still do. To be frank, these photographs confirm the image of Sogyal having a harem and actually living this way.
Voice-over00:08:55.48
As far as we can see, what is shown in these photographs is not illegal. But according to Oane, all of this is miles way from Buddhism as she understands it.
As far as we can see, what is shown in these photographs is not illegal. But according to Oane, all of this is miles way from Buddhism as she understands it.
Oane
Bijlsma00:09:02.52
I have always considered it to be perverse. It does not feel healthy. It does not look healthy. He might as well be a wealthy little business man with a prediliction for certain women and cigars. He is not alone in that, but if that is the case do not call yourself a Buddhist organization.
I have always considered it to be perverse. It does not feel healthy. It does not look healthy. He might as well be a wealthy little business man with a prediliction for certain women and cigars. He is not alone in that, but if that is the case do not call yourself a Buddhist organization.
Voice-over00:09:24.44
Shortly after the photographs were taken, one of the ‘dakini’s’ accuses Sogyal openly of sexual abuse. She has left Rigpa and tells her story in a Canadese documentary.
Shortly after the photographs were taken, one of the ‘dakini’s’ accuses Sogyal openly of sexual abuse. She has left Rigpa and tells her story in a Canadese documentary.
Mimi00:09:32.96
So there was this moment when I was alone in his room with him, and then he said: ‘undress’. And having been for only two months working as an attendant for him, I just considered it to be another test of devotion.
So there was this moment when I was alone in his room with him, and then he said: ‘undress’. And having been for only two months working as an attendant for him, I just considered it to be another test of devotion.
Voice-over00:09:56.84
Before that, Sogyal had already been discredited. In the 90s, a woman files a complaint for damages caused by sexual harassment. By reaching a settlement , Sogyal does not have to appear in court.
Before that, Sogyal had already been discredited. In the 90s, a woman files a complaint for damages caused by sexual harassment. By reaching a settlement , Sogyal does not have to appear in court.
Dirk
Mostert00:10:09.40
Did his organization or Sogyal argue against the charges being made?
Did his organization or Sogyal argue against the charges being made?
Rob
Hogendoorn00:10:11.05
No, and that is typical: Sogyal and his organization do not deny that he does these things, they merely deny that he brings harm to others.
No, and that is typical: Sogyal and his organization do not deny that he does these things, they merely deny that he brings harm to others.
Voice-over00:10:24.62
Meanwhile, in Lerab Ling, things become clearer to Oane: this is not right. During breakfast, she herself is confronted with the perverse behaviour of her spiritual leader.
Meanwhile, in Lerab Ling, things become clearer to Oane: this is not right. During breakfast, she herself is confronted with the perverse behaviour of her spiritual leader.
Oane
Bijlsma00:10:43.98
At that time, he asked me: ‘Did you have a good fuck?’
At that time, he asked me: ‘Did you have a good fuck?’
Dirk
Mostert00:10:49.32
This is what he asked, this Tibetan Buddhist teacher?
This is what he asked, this Tibetan Buddhist teacher?
Oane
Bijlsma00:10:50.71
Yes, in front of everybody. He asked this during breakfast in the morning, with everyone present. People giggled and laughed, finding it hilarious, waiting to see how I would respond.
Yes, in front of everybody. He asked this during breakfast in the morning, with everyone present. People giggled and laughed, finding it hilarious, waiting to see how I would respond.
Dirk
Mostert00:11:04.14
Did you find it degrading?
Did you find it degrading?
Oane
Bijlsma00:11:04.24
Yes. It is shocking and gripping, to say the least, because it hurts people’s integrity.
Yes. It is shocking and gripping, to say the least, because it hurts people’s integrity.
Dirk
Mostert00:11:10.48
Yours as well?
Yours as well?
Oane
Bijlsma00:11:14.40
Yes, mine as well.
Yes, mine as well.
Voice-over00:11:14.40
By this time, we would like to hear what Sogyal and Rigpa have to say about this. We ask the spiritual leader for an interview. The retreat in Amsterdam seems to be a good occasion to speak with him, and we await his response to our request. Within the Netherlands there are more than 50.000 practicing Buddhists and some 350 persons who call themselves Buddhist teacher. One of them is Ron Sinnige.
By this time, we would like to hear what Sogyal and Rigpa have to say about this. We ask the spiritual leader for an interview. The retreat in Amsterdam seems to be a good occasion to speak with him, and we await his response to our request. Within the Netherlands there are more than 50.000 practicing Buddhists and some 350 persons who call themselves Buddhist teacher. One of them is Ron Sinnige.
Dirk
Mostert00:11:27.38
Where could I check if you are any good?
Where could I check if you are any good?
Ron
Sinnige00:11:46.44
Nowhere. I cannot tell you that.
Nowhere. I cannot tell you that.
Dirk
Mostert00:11:53.26
There is no register, for instance?
There is no register, for instance?
Ron
Sinnige00:11:53.36
No.
No.
Dirk
Mostert00:12:02.05
Sinnige, who works for the trades union FNV, gives guidance to a small group of Zen Buddhists in Utrecht. He regularly witnesses charlatans and fake-guru’s popping up around him.
Sinnige, who works for the trades union FNV, gives guidance to a small group of Zen Buddhists in Utrecht. He regularly witnesses charlatans and fake-guru’s popping up around him.
Ron
Sinnige00:12:10.60
Over here, it is very easy to pose as a teacher. Nobody knows what you did in Tibet or Japan: perhaps you were a butcher on the next corner. And people will in fact join you. When you say things that seems deep or wise, people will find it wonderful.
Over here, it is very easy to pose as a teacher. Nobody knows what you did in Tibet or Japan: perhaps you were a butcher on the next corner. And people will in fact join you. When you say things that seems deep or wise, people will find it wonderful.
Dirk
Mostert
00:12:32.12
Before you know it, you have a class of your own?
00:12:32.12
Before you know it, you have a class of your own?
Ron
Sinnige
00:12:32.12
Before you know it you will have a class of your own, yes.
00:12:32.12
Before you know it you will have a class of your own, yes.
Dirk
Mostert
00:12:36.96
While drivelling on a bit?
00:12:36.96
While drivelling on a bit?
Ron
Sinnige
00:12:36.96
Yes, I do know a few of those.
00:12:36.96
Yes, I do know a few of those.
Dirk
Mostert
00:12:38.36
Does this worry you?
00:12:38.36
Does this worry you?
Ron
Sinnige00:12:44.52
Well, it is not good PR, of course. In fact, it is very bad. I think people still believe that Buddhism is a fairy tale, an island of uniqueness and quiet, and of immaculacy and purity: these kind of things, these kind of things! It is not like that! We are all human! We are all human! And those who pronounce most loudly that they are a ‘teacher’ or a ‘master’: well, look again. I would look again, if I were you.
Well, it is not good PR, of course. In fact, it is very bad. I think people still believe that Buddhism is a fairy tale, an island of uniqueness and quiet, and of immaculacy and purity: these kind of things, these kind of things! It is not like that! We are all human! We are all human! And those who pronounce most loudly that they are a ‘teacher’ or a ‘master’: well, look again. I would look again, if I were you.
Dirk
Mostert
00:13:22.38
Those, you would have to mistrust them?
00:13:22.38
Those, you would have to mistrust them?
Ron
Sinnige
00:13:22.48
I would be careful, to be sure.
00:13:22.48
I would be careful, to be sure.
Voice-over
00:13:25.62
According to researcher Hogendoorn, many people in the Netherlands have no clue as to what might be expected of a Buddhist teacher—and what not.
00:13:25.62
According to researcher Hogendoorn, many people in the Netherlands have no clue as to what might be expected of a Buddhist teacher—and what not.
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:13:32.60
Once, I got a telephone call by a man whose wife had visited a small Buddhist temple in some town. During the first visit, she was asked to undress. She did, upon which the teacher undressed himself and began stroking and touching her, ever more intimately. This man called me, feeling completely insecure, and asked: ‘Is this normal? Does this go with it?’
00:13:32.60
Once, I got a telephone call by a man whose wife had visited a small Buddhist temple in some town. During the first visit, she was asked to undress. She did, upon which the teacher undressed himself and began stroking and touching her, ever more intimately. This man called me, feeling completely insecure, and asked: ‘Is this normal? Does this go with it?’
Dirk
Mostert
00:14:10.30
Apparently, he thought it did.
00:14:10.30
Apparently, he thought it did.
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:14:14.20
So, it was left to me to say: ‘What you are telling me is not normal, and it does not go with Buddhism.’
00:14:14.20
So, it was left to me to say: ‘What you are telling me is not normal, and it does not go with Buddhism.’
Rob
Trip
00:14:19.27
Good night. Abuse cases: usually, this makes us think of the Catholic Church. But now victims of sexual abuse within Buddhist circles step forward. The past months, the NOS spoke to several victims. At least eight Buddhist teachers are said to have been responsible for dozens of sexual abuse cases. This is the first time that victims speak out openly.
00:14:19.27
Good night. Abuse cases: usually, this makes us think of the Catholic Church. But now victims of sexual abuse within Buddhist circles step forward. The past months, the NOS spoke to several victims. At least eight Buddhist teachers are said to have been responsible for dozens of sexual abuse cases. This is the first time that victims speak out openly.
Voice-over
00:14:41.56
In 2015, research by Hogendoorn brings to light a large abuse case within the Buddhist community of Waalwijk. It was reported first by the NOS Eight O’Clock News.
00:14:41.56
In 2015, research by Hogendoorn brings to light a large abuse case within the Buddhist community of Waalwijk. It was reported first by the NOS Eight O’Clock News.
Anonymous
00:14:52.00
At some moment, he reaches over and pulls your pants down, telling you: ‘I am doing this for you. Do not think of girls. Try to just feel it.’
00:14:52.00
At some moment, he reaches over and pulls your pants down, telling you: ‘I am doing this for you. Do not think of girls. Try to just feel it.’
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:15:04.38
There was publicity in 2015, but at that time the exact nature and scale of the abuse was not brought out fully into the open. One of the reasons I know this, is because after that I have been approached by new sources, new victims, and new bystanders.
00:15:04.38
There was publicity in 2015, but at that time the exact nature and scale of the abuse was not brought out fully into the open. One of the reasons I know this, is because after that I have been approached by new sources, new victims, and new bystanders.
Voice-over
00:15:19.64
According to Hogendoorn, he is working on 17 files on Buddhist teachers who are or were active in the Netherlands and went too far, for example in Middelburg.
00:15:19.64
According to Hogendoorn, he is working on 17 files on Buddhist teachers who are or were active in the Netherlands and went too far, for example in Middelburg.
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:15:23.94
This is footage shot by Omroep Zeeland of the community of ‘Lama Kelsang Chöpel’, who had previously been known as the Austrian Gerhard Mattioli. He used to be a skipper writing books on pleasure cruising.
00:15:23.94
This is footage shot by Omroep Zeeland of the community of ‘Lama Kelsang Chöpel’, who had previously been known as the Austrian Gerhard Mattioli. He used to be a skipper writing books on pleasure cruising.
Dirk
Mostert
00:15:48.04
And he abused people?
00:15:48.04
And he abused people?
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:15:48.40
Yes. He has abused several women in his community. The wounds are very deep. It has cost people their marriage. It has cost children the marriage of their parents.
00:15:48.40
Yes. He has abused several women in his community. The wounds are very deep. It has cost people their marriage. It has cost children the marriage of their parents.
Dirk
Mostert
00:16:06.33
Did the police or judicature intervene?
00:16:06.33
Did the police or judicature intervene?
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:16:06.39
Some of the victims in Middelburg have talked to the police, but so far they did not report a crime.
00:16:06.39
Some of the victims in Middelburg have talked to the police, but so far they did not report a crime.
Dirk
Mostert
00:16:09.08
Why did they not do that?
00:16:09.08
Why did they not do that?
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:16:13.20
They were very afraid of this Lama. He had them believe that he was capable of performing ‘black magic’, so that he could harm them from a distance with certain ailments, etcetera.
00:16:13.20
They were very afraid of this Lama. He had them believe that he was capable of performing ‘black magic’, so that he could harm them from a distance with certain ailments, etcetera.
Dirk
Mostert
00:16:28.48
Did they really believe that he could?
00:16:28.48
Did they really believe that he could?
Rob
Hogendoorn
00:16:28.48
Some did. I have spoken to people who still believe that this man posesses such powers, even though they have known for some time now that he was a charlatan.
00:16:28.48
Some did. I have spoken to people who still believe that this man posesses such powers, even though they have known for some time now that he was a charlatan.
Voice-over
00:16:39.76
After he was accused, Mattioly flees the Netherlands. Reportedly, he is working in Germany now. Shortly after the first incident, Oane, once again, is confronted with Sogyal’s unacceptable behaviour. She was working in Sogyal’s appartment at the time.
00:16:39.76
After he was accused, Mattioly flees the Netherlands. Reportedly, he is working in Germany now. Shortly after the first incident, Oane, once again, is confronted with Sogyal’s unacceptable behaviour. She was working in Sogyal’s appartment at the time.
Oane
Bijlsma
00:16:52.68
He grabbed my head from behind, and pushed me towards an image he held in his hand, saying: ‘Look! Look!’. It was a drawing of a deity with a very huge, fat, veined, larger than life erection in his hands. And I thought: ‘OK?’
00:16:52.68
He grabbed my head from behind, and pushed me towards an image he held in his hand, saying: ‘Look! Look!’. It was a drawing of a deity with a very huge, fat, veined, larger than life erection in his hands. And I thought: ‘OK?’
Voice-over
00:16:54.33
Right before the retreat, Rigpa let us know that there would be no interview with Sogyal. Supposedly, he did not have the time. In an attempt to get some response, we visit the retreat.
00:16:54.33
Right before the retreat, Rigpa let us know that there would be no interview with Sogyal. Supposedly, he did not have the time. In an attempt to get some response, we visit the retreat.
Dirk
Mostert
00:16:56.52
We cannot film here?
00:16:56.52
We cannot film here?
Daan
Meerburg
00:17:39.12
This is a private retreat. You have not been invited and you have to leave.
00:17:39.12
This is a private retreat. You have not been invited and you have to leave.
Dirk
Mostert
00:17:44.68
And you are not willing to answer my questions?
00:17:44.68
And you are not willing to answer my questions?
Daan
Meerburg
00:17:45.20
We are busy doing other things. We are busy with a retreat, not with a television programme. So, once again, I request you to leave.
00:17:45.20
We are busy doing other things. We are busy with a retreat, not with a television programme. So, once again, I request you to leave.
Dirk
Mostert
00:17:54.38
And if I remain here?
00:17:54.38
And if I remain here?
Daan
Meerburg
00:17:56.64
Than I will in fact have you removed.
00:17:56.64
Than I will in fact have you removed.
Voice-over
00:18:09.48
Rigpa and Sogyal refuse to answer direct questions about the abuse. We get in touch with Olivier Raurich, former director of Rigpa France. He tell us that this has been a deliberate strategy for years.
00:18:09.48
Rigpa and Sogyal refuse to answer direct questions about the abuse. We get in touch with Olivier Raurich, former director of Rigpa France. He tell us that this has been a deliberate strategy for years.
Olivier
Raurich
00:18:10.04
Rigpa paid quite a lot of money to train some of the main people, including myself, because I was really one of his main spokesmen in France, to learn how to answer questions like: ‘Your guru is accused of sexual abuse, what is your answer?’ So, I began to be trained in that. They told me not to answer at all, and instead to say things like ‘The Dalai Lama is supporting Sogyal Rinpoche one hundred pecent’, and repeat that, only that, without answering ‘yes’ or ‘no’. And at that time, I began to understand that there really was something fishy about this, so I decided to quit.
00:18:10.04
Rigpa paid quite a lot of money to train some of the main people, including myself, because I was really one of his main spokesmen in France, to learn how to answer questions like: ‘Your guru is accused of sexual abuse, what is your answer?’ So, I began to be trained in that. They told me not to answer at all, and instead to say things like ‘The Dalai Lama is supporting Sogyal Rinpoche one hundred pecent’, and repeat that, only that, without answering ‘yes’ or ‘no’. And at that time, I began to understand that there really was something fishy about this, so I decided to quit.
Voice-over
00:19:03.52
Raurich leaves, as does Oane. By that time, she has spent almost a year within Rigpa. She visits Rigpa’s headquarters in Amsterdam to talk about the abuse.
00:19:03.52
Raurich leaves, as does Oane. By that time, she has spent almost a year within Rigpa. She visits Rigpa’s headquarters in Amsterdam to talk about the abuse.
Oane
Bijlsma
00:19:12.36
I got no answers.
00:19:12.36
I got no answers.
Dirk
Mostert
00:19:14.54
Answers that go to the question why and how?
00:19:14.54
Answers that go to the question why and how?
Oane
Bijlsma
00:19:14.64
I got answers like: ‘This is beyond your ken. It is tantra. People ask for it. They want to be worked with,’ these types of answers. Like: ‘Nobody is unhappy. Nobody considers this abuse.’
00:19:14.64
I got answers like: ‘This is beyond your ken. It is tantra. People ask for it. They want to be worked with,’ these types of answers. Like: ‘Nobody is unhappy. Nobody considers this abuse.’
Voice-over
00:19:31.92
In the end, Rigpa sends us a statement. The organization writes that any form of abuse is thought to be ‘unacceptable’, and that complaints are taken ‘seriously’. Supposedly, Oane had every opportunity to share her story. Rigpa writes: ‘We are not familiar with the facts that Oane reported, so we can not respond to them.’ The full statement is on our website. In 2015, Oane also reports to the complaints office for sexual abuse in Buddhist circles, which had just been founded.
00:19:31.92
In the end, Rigpa sends us a statement. The organization writes that any form of abuse is thought to be ‘unacceptable’, and that complaints are taken ‘seriously’. Supposedly, Oane had every opportunity to share her story. Rigpa writes: ‘We are not familiar with the facts that Oane reported, so we can not respond to them.’ The full statement is on our website. In 2015, Oane also reports to the complaints office for sexual abuse in Buddhist circles, which had just been founded.
Oane
Bijlsma
00:19:58.76
I reported to the complaints office.
00:19:58.76
I reported to the complaints office.
Dirk
Mostert
00:20:05.00
What did that get you?
00:20:05.00
What did that get you?
Oane
Bijlsma
00:20:05.74
So far, it got me nothing, because they do nothing beyond registring stories.
00:20:05.74
So far, it got me nothing, because they do nothing beyond registring stories.
Dirk
Mostert
00:20:11.40
What use does that have to us?
00:20:11.40
What use does that have to us?
Oane
Bijlsma
00:20:14.80
No use at all: that is why I share my story with you.
00:20:14.80
No use at all: that is why I share my story with you.
Voice-over
00:20:17.96
Last Saturday: Oane meets former Rigpa members who have turned their back on the organization because of the continuing reports on sexual abuse.
00:20:17.96
Last Saturday: Oane meets former Rigpa members who have turned their back on the organization because of the continuing reports on sexual abuse.
Eremita
Zekaite
00:20:29.96
Hey hello, I’m Eremita!
00:20:29.96
Hey hello, I’m Eremita!
Oane
Bijlsma
00:20:32.08
I did not know it was you!
00:20:32.08
I did not know it was you!
Odette
Groenheide
00:20:38.00
A teacher having sex with someone who is his student, is unacceptable to me. It involves so much power. You cannot say: ‘Well, it is up to them. It is their own responsibility.’
00:20:38.00
A teacher having sex with someone who is his student, is unacceptable to me. It involves so much power. You cannot say: ‘Well, it is up to them. It is their own responsibility.’
Voice-over
00:20:53.32
What do these two ex-members make of the photographs?
00:20:53.32
What do these two ex-members make of the photographs?
Eremita
Zekaite00:20:53.78
Are these connected to Sogyal?
Are these connected to Sogyal?
Odette
Groenheide00:20:59.12
These were probably taken during one of his yearly visits to Australia. Apparently, anything goes while he is there. This is not normal.
These were probably taken during one of his yearly visits to Australia. Apparently, anything goes while he is there. This is not normal.
Eremita
Zekaite00:21:08.60
This is horrible. It is very confronting that this is possible.
This is horrible. It is very confronting that this is possible.
Odette
Groenheide00:21:09.03
This blond woman looks very unhappy.
This blond woman looks very unhappy.
Eremita
Zekaite00:21:23.95
Rigpa must stop! Such a club should not exist. But they are very powerful.
Rigpa must stop! Such a club should not exist. But they are very powerful.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:21:30.76
In the West, Buddhist teachers are often soloists, with no oversight. There is no central organization or hierarchy. When a Catholic priest abuses a child or an adult parishioner, everyone knows that that is not right. Within Buddhism, powerful voices say about sexual relations between teacher and student : ‘That depends.’
In the West, Buddhist teachers are often soloists, with no oversight. There is no central organization or hierarchy. When a Catholic priest abuses a child or an adult parishioner, everyone knows that that is not right. Within Buddhism, powerful voices say about sexual relations between teacher and student : ‘That depends.’
Oane
Bijlsma00:21:53.87
This is the mysterious, unique and wise Buddhism from Shangri-la, which is so very beautiful. The idea that there is no abuse of power or sexual abuse because it is Buddhism, is naive.
This is the mysterious, unique and wise Buddhism from Shangri-la, which is so very beautiful. The idea that there is no abuse of power or sexual abuse because it is Buddhism, is naive.
Rob
Hogendoorn00:22:17.91
I support the unambiguous standard: sexual relations between teacher and student are taboo, full stop.
I support the unambiguous standard: sexual relations between teacher and student are taboo, full stop.
Source :
Letter
to Sogyal Rinpoche by senior Rigpa members (14 July 2017):
