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Shambhala Delek System
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The idea of having a delek system and dekyongs developed out of the [local centers] and Karma Dzong. It came from thinking of them as a society, actually, and about how society could function and manifest at its best. Such a society would have good communication, a sense of dignity and realistic vision so that we could actually nurture our children as well as ourselves. ...
The delek system cuts down the extraordinary hypocrisy of dictatorship as well as the idea of too much democracy. It brings us to a middle path, which is somewhat democratic: your individual contributions could become very positive and excellent through the delek system, and the dictatorial aspect of society could be cut down. Our notion of hierarchy is more like a flower than a lid. It is more like a waterfall than a volcano.
Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche
Dekyong Oath Ceremony, June 15, 1982
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The delek system we set up and the sangha we have is a mandala. We need to keep the inspiration of this. As the teachings and the sangha spread and more people become interested, they won’t feel there is this vast ocean of bureaucracy they have to deal with in order to practice. Rather, they can come in and just connect immediately because people are willing to share with them. So we’re creating a system where everybody is basically happy.
Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche
Dekyong Oath Ceremony, August 5, 1990
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 What is a delek?
Delek means “good happiness” in Tibetan. Lek means “good” and de means “bliss” or “happiness.” So good bliss or good happiness is the name for a neighbourhood grouping of Shambhala Community members and associates. A member of a delek is called a delekpa.
Through the delek system, Shambhala community members meet and socialise with other members who live in their neighbourhood. The delek system is intended to be inclusive rather than exclusive, like a clan or extended family. It’s a place to catch up on community and personal news, discuss community issues, ask and receive answers to questions, and just have a good time.
Read more about deleks (pdf)
Watch a Midsummer's Day 2006 video - deleks on parade
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Ground
- In order to realise our precious human birth
- It is necessary to share the Buddhadharma.
- In order to share the Buddhadharma it is necessary to make friends with each other.
Path
- When we are friends with each other we are aware of others’ needs.
- When we are aware of others’ needs everyday life is not limited to personal concerns.
- When our life is not limited to personal concerns we consider others as part of our family.
Fruition
- When others are part of our family we are dedicated to their benefit.
- When we are dedicated to the benefit of others we protect their well-being.
- When we protect the well-being of others this precious human birth becomes
continuous delight.
Vajra Regent Ösel Tendzin
May 12, 1981
Three-Fold Logic of Deleks
Midsummer's Day, Halifax, NS
June 25, 2007
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