Birth and Early Life Konchok Tenpai Dronme, revered as the Third Gontang Lama, was born on February 18, 1762, in the serene village of Zogay Manma, situated in the historical region of Amdo, Tibet. His birth predestined him to a significant role in the spiritual landscape of Tibetan Buddhism. Even at a tender age, Konchok...Read More
Introduction to Dombi Heruka Dombi Heruka, often referred to as Dombipa, holds a significant place in the history of Buddhism as an influential 8th-9th century Indian mahasiddha. His life and teachings have left an indelible mark on the evolution of the Hevajra lineage, a vital current within Vajrayana Buddhism. Dombi Heruka’s contributions are paramount, as...Read More
Introduction to Tibetan Buddhist Canon The Tibetan Buddhist canon represents a rich and extensive collection of scriptures that serve as the foundation for Tibetan Buddhism, encapsulating the core teachings and philosophy of this ancient tradition. It is divided into two primary parts: the Kangyur and the Tengyur, each playing a vital role in the preservation...Read More
Introduction to Taranatha’s Legacy Taranatha, a luminary figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is revered for his profound contributions to the Jonang school, particularly through his historical scholarship and spiritual teachings. Born in the 17th century in Tibet, Taranatha’s scholarship is characterized by a deep engagement with Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, history, and practice. His impressive body of...Read More
Introduction to Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, was born in the year 1292 in the remote region of Dolpo. His remarkable intellectual and spiritual contributions have earned him the revered title of the ‘Buddha from Dolpo,’ a testament to his mastery in the Buddhist doctrines as well as...Read More
Introduction to Khetsun Yonten Gyatso Khetsun Yonten Gyatso was born in the year 1206 in the region of Dogkarniang, an area nestled within the cultural and spiritual landscape of Tibet. His birth into a family of prominent tantric masters endowed him with access to profound teachings and practices that would significantly shape his spiritual journey....Read More
Introduction to Kunpang Thukje Tsondru Kunpang Thukje Tsondru was an influential figure in the realm of Tibetan Buddhism, known primarily as the founder of the Jonang school. Born in the 12th century in the region of Tsang, Tibet, his background is steeped in the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tibetan traditions. Tsondru’s early life...Read More
Introduction to the Jonang Tradition The Jonang tradition, an often overlooked yet profoundly significant school of Tibetan Buddhism, has captured the interest of scholars and practitioners alike due to its distinct philosophical framework and unique contributions to the broader Buddhist discourse. Emerging in the 12th century, Jonang Buddhism is particularly noted for its formulation of...Read More
Introduction to Thubten Jamphel Yeshe Gyaltsen Thubten Jamphel Yeshe Gyaltsen, revered as the 5th Reting Rinpoche, holds a prominent place in the annals of Tibetan Buddhism. Born in 1912 in the Nyemo region of Tibet, he was recognized early on as the reincarnation of the 4th Reting Rinpoche, making him an essential figure in the...Read More
Introduction Panchen Sonam Drakpa holds a distinguished position in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly within the Gelug monastic tradition. His unique status as the only abbot to oversee the three major Gelug monasteries in Lhasa—Sera, Drepung, and Ganden—marks him as a pivotal figure in this lineage. This role not only underscores his exceptional leadership...Read More
Introduction Jamyang Choejey Tashi Pelden, an eminent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, is renowned for founding Drepung Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Tibet. Born in the early 15th century, Tashi Pelden embodies the spiritual lineage and teachings of the Gelug tradition, which emphasizes rigorous monastic discipline, ethical conduct, and philosophical education....Read More
Introduction to Gyaltsab Je Gyaltsab Je, a prominent figure in Tibetan Buddhism, was born in 1364 and passed away in 1432. He is revered as the first Ganden Tripa, a position that solidified his significance within the early Gelug tradition. His contributions to Buddhist philosophy and practice cannot be overstated, as he played a crucial...Read More
Historical Background of the Gelug School The Gelug School, also known as the Yellow Hat Sect, traces its origins back to the early 15th century, significantly marked by the contributions of Je Tsongkhapa. Born in 1357, Je Tsongkhapa was a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism, advocating for a revival of monastic discipline and scholarly rigor....Read More
Introduction to Ngorchin Kunga Sangpo Ngorchin Kunga Sangpo stands as a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly revered within the Sakya tradition. His contributions to the spiritual landscape of Tibet continue to resonate deeply, marking him as a seminal tantric master and a foundational figure in the Ngor subtradition. Born in 1497, Kunga Sangpo emerged...Read More
Introduction to Kunga Tashi Kunga Tashi, born in 1349, emerges as a pivotal figure within Tibetan Buddhism, primarily renowned for his contributions to the Sakya tradition. As a scholar, diplomat, and spiritual envoy, his life reflects a unique intertwining of religious and political dynamics during a tumultuous period in Tibetan history. Kunga Tashi belongs to...Read More
Introduction to Dongtön Lodrö Drakpa Dongtön Lodrö Drakpa, born in 1106 in Umang village within the Shigatse region of Tibet, is celebrated as one of the most significant figures in Tibetan Buddhism. Renowned for founding Narthang Monastery, he played an essential role in the development of the Kadam tradition, which emphasizes the importance of study,...Read More
Introduction to Ra Drakpa Gönpo Ra Drakpa Gönpo, born in 1186, emerges as a significant figure within the Kadampa tradition, a major school of Tibetan Buddhism. His influence spans both spiritual and administrative realms, as he sought to uphold and disseminate the teachings of the Kadampa lineage established by Atisha. As a royal descendant, his...Read More
Early Life and Background Langri Tangpa Dorje Senge was born in 1054 in the Phenpo region of Central Tibet, a location regarded for its rich spiritual heritage. From an early age, he exhibited a strong inclination towards spiritual pursuits, which would eventually shape his legacy as a master of compassion and mind training. His Dharma...Read More
Introduction to Gönpawa Chökyi Gyaltsen Gönpawa Chökyi Gyaltsen, a prominent figure of the 11th century, is esteemed for his critical role in the development of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly within the Kadam tradition. His teachings and practices significantly shaped Buddhist ethics, emphasizing the importance of moral conduct, compassion, and the cultivation of wisdom among practitioners. As...Read More
Introduction to Potowa Rinchen Sel Potowa Rinchen Sel, a distinguished Tibetan Buddhist master, emerged as a pivotal figure in the development of the Kadampa school during the 11th century. His life and teachings have greatly influenced not only the doctrinal framework of this essential school of Tibetan Buddhism but also the practices and educational structures...Read More
