The Life and Influence of Tsongkhapa
Je Lama Tsongkhapa Chenpo: The Founder of the Gelug School
Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa, known as Je Tsongkhapa, ( རྗེ་ཙོང་ཁ་བ་བློ་བཟང་གྲགས་པ། )was born in 1357 near Amdo Kumbum (now in Qinghai, China). His name means “Man from Tsongkha,” a title used by later generations to honor him.
From a young age, Tsongkhapa demonstrated extraordinary spiritual potential. At age three, a Karma Kagyu lama visited his family and predicted that he would become a “Second Buddha.” At seven, he took novice vows and began his Buddhist education under the Kadampa tradition, which was rooted in Atisha’s “Lamp for the Path to Enlightenment”.
A Journey of Study Across Tibet by Lama Tsongkhapa
At 16, Tsongkhapa left his homeland for Central Tibet, vowing never to return eastward until he had mastered the Dharma. His pilgrimage led him to various monasteries:
- Drikung Kagyu monasteries in Ü region
- Sakya Monastery, where he met Dawa Gyaltsen, his most influential teacher, and studied Madhyamaka philosophy
- Tsetang, Samye, and Tsang, where he deepened his understanding of both Sutra and Tantra
By the age of 34, Tsongkhapa had already achieved profound mastery in both exoteric and esoteric Buddhism. He meticulously studied Tantric rituals, including mandala construction, sacred dances, and mudras, integrating them into his understanding of the Dharma.
The Birth of the Gelug School
In 1409, with the support of Pakdru ruler Jangchub Gyaltsen, Tsongkhapa organized the Great Monlam Prayer Festival at Jokhang Temple in Lhasa. This event marked the formal establishment of the Gelug school.
Tsongkhapa’s followers soon built the Three Great Gelug Monasteries:
- Ganden Monastery (1409) – founded by Tsongkhapa himself
- Drepung Monastery (1416) – founded by his disciple Jamyang Chöjé
- Sera Monastery (1419) – founded by Shakya Yeshe after returning from the Ming court
Later, Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, Kumbum Monastery in Qinghai, and Labrang Monastery in Gansu became major centers of Gelug learning.
The Gelug school, also known as New Kadam or “Yellow Hat” school, emphasized:
- Rigorous philosophical debate
- Strict monastic discipline
- The integration of Sutra and Tantra
Tsongkhapa’s Passing & the Ganden Ngamchö Festival
Tsongkhapa passed away in 1419 (Tibetan Year of the Earth Pig) on the 25th day of the 10th lunar month at Ganden Monastery. To honor his legacy, Gelug monasteries worldwide observe Ganden Ngamchö (Festival of Lights) on this day by lighting thousands of butter lamps.
Legacy of a Great Reformer
Tsongkhapa’s contributions reshaped Tibetan Buddhism, bringing renewed focus on ethical discipline, logic, and tantric integration. His teachings continue to guide millions of practitioners, and his Lamrim Chenmo (Great Treatise on the Stages of the Path to Enlightenment) remains a foundational text for Buddhist study.
Tsongkhapa’s Eight Eminent Disciples
Tsongkhapa’s teachings and legacy were carried forward by his eight distinguished disciples, each of whom played a crucial role in the spread and development of his teachings.
Gyaltsab Je Dharma Rinchen (1364–1432): Tsongkhapa’s Foremost Disciple & 2nd Ganden Tripa
Gyaltsab Je, born Dharma Rinchen in 1364 in Gyantö, Shigatse, was one of the eight great disciples of Je Tsongkhapa. Originally ordained in the Sakya tradition, he studied under prominent masters like Rendawa and became renowned for his mastery of the Ten Great Texts.
After meeting Tsongkhapa, Gyaltsab Je became his closest student, dedicating 12 years to intensive study and practice of both Sutra and Tantra. Following Tsongkhapa’s passing, he was appointed as the second Ganden Tripa (throne holder of Ganden Monastery), continuing to spread the Gelug school’s teachings. He firmly upheld Tsongkhapa’s principles, emphasizing Vinaya (monastic discipline) and the integration of Sutrayana and Vajrayana traditions.
Gyaltsab Je’s contributions were instrumental in establishing the Gelug school’s foundations, ensuring the longevity of Tsongkhapa’s legacy. His leadership and scholarly achievements solidified the monastic education system that continues to thrive today.
Khedrup Je (1385–1438): First Panchen Lama & Third Ganden Tripa
Khedrup Je, born Gelek Pelzang in 1385 in Lhato Jang, Shigatse, was one of Je Lama Tsongkhapa’s eight greatest disciples and later recognized as the First Panchen Lama. He initially studied in the Sakya tradition and became proficient in the Ten Great Texts under the guidance of masters like Rendawa and Gyaltsab Je.
Introduced to Tsongkhapa by Rendawa, Khedrup Je soon became his second most esteemed disciple. After Tsongkhapa’s passing, he traveled across Tsang, propagating the teachings of Sutra and Tantra. Later, Gyaltsab Je invited him back to Ganden Monastery, where he became the third Ganden Tripa (throne holder of Ganden Monastery), upholding and expanding Tsongkhapa’s philosophical traditions.
A brilliant scholar and accomplished debater, Khedrup Je was instrumental in refining and systematizing Gelug doctrine. His works, deeply aligned with Tsongkhapa’s vision, remain fundamental in Tibetan Buddhist studies today.
Jamyang Choje (1379–1448): Founder of Drepung Monastery & Master of Buddhist Philosophy
Jamyang Chojey, born Tashi Pelden in 1379 in Samye, Tibet, was a highly esteemed disciple of Je Tsongkhapa. Among Tsongkhapa’s eight great students, he was known as the foremost in scriptural knowledge, earning the title of “Master of Hearing and Retention.”
At Ganden Monastery, he received extensive teachings from Tsongkhapa, studying texts such as Distinguishing the Definitive and Interpretive Meanings and Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way. Under the guidance of Tsongkhapa, Gyaltsab Je, and other great masters, he took full monastic ordination, solidifying his deep commitment to the Vinaya tradition.
In 1416, following Tsongkhapa’s instructions, Jamyang Choje established Drepung Monastery, which later became the largest and most influential monastery in Tibet. He taught extensively on Madhyamaka philosophy, logic, and esoteric practices, gathering a vast number of disciples and ensuring the continuity of Tsongkhapa’s teachings. His contributions laid the foundation for Drepung’s prominence in Tibetan Buddhism, making it a center of monastic learning that continues to thrive today.
Jamchen Choje (1354–1435): Founder of Sera Monastery & Imperial Teacher to the Ming Court
Jamchen Choje, born Shakya Yeshe in 1354 in Tsé Gungthang, near Lhasa, was one of Je Tsongkhapa’s foremost disciples and a key figure in the expansion of the Gelug tradition. Recognized for his deep wisdom and dedication, he became an influential teacher and missionary of Tsongkhapa’s philosophy.
In the early 15th century, he traveled to the Ming Dynasty capital, where he met Emperor Yongle and later served as the imperial teacher during the reigns of Yongle and Xuande. His efforts helped introduce and establish the Gelug school’s teachings in China and Mongolia, making him a central figure in Tibetan Buddhist diplomacy.
Upon returning to Tibet, he founded Sera Monastery, which became one of the three great Gelug monasteries in Lhasa. His extensive teachings and monastic leadership solidified the spread of Tsongkhapa’s doctrines, ensuring their influence beyond Tibet. His role in promoting Tibetan Buddhism in China and Mongolia left a lasting impact, further integrating the Gelug school into the broader Buddhist world.
Gyalwa Gendun Drub (1391–1475): First Dalai Lama & Founder of Tashilhunpo Monastery
Gendun Drub, born in 1391 in the Sakya region of Shigatse, was a devoted disciple of Je Tsongkhapa and later recognized as the First Dalai Lama. At the age of 15, he took novice vows under Juba Sherab and received full ordination at 20, deepening his studies in Buddhist philosophy and Sanskrit under Indian and Tibetan masters.
In 1415, he first met Tsongkhapa at Tashi Dokha and later followed him to Ganden Monastery, where he became one of his closest students. After Tsongkhapa’s passing, Gendun Drub continued to spread his teachings, solidifying the Gelug school’s influence across Tibet.
In 1447, with the support of local rulers, he founded Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, which later became the seat of the Panchen Lama lineage. His profound scholarship, commitment to monastic discipline, and efforts in preserving Tsongkhapa’s legacy made him a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism. Today, he is revered not only as the First Dalai Lama but also as a spiritual leader who laid the groundwork for centuries of Gelug tradition.
Gesang Gyatso: A Key Disciple of Tsongkhapa & Founder of Damoche Monastery
Gesang Gyatso, a native of the Ngari region of western Tibet, was one of the eight great disciples of Je Tsongkhapa. He studied at Ganden Monastery, where he deepened his knowledge of both Sutra and Tantra under Tsongkhapa’s direct guidance.
Following Tsongkhapa’s passing, Gesang Gyatso returned to Ngari’s Mangyul region, where he founded Damoche Monastery. Through his dedicated efforts, he helped spread the Gelug school’s teachings across western Tibet, ensuring that Tsongkhapa’s doctrine flourished beyond central Tibet. His role in the expansion of the Gelug tradition in Ngari remains a significant part of Tibetan Buddhist history, making him a revered master whose contributions helped shape the region’s spiritual landscape.
Sherab Sangpo: A Key Disciple of Tsongkhapa & Founder of Jampaling Monastery
Sherab Sangpo, born in Chamdo, Kham, was one of the eight great disciples of Je Tsongkhapa. He initially studied at Sera Monastery in Lhasa, where he became one of Tsongkhapa’s later students, receiving extensive training in Buddhist philosophy and monastic discipline.
After Tsongkhapa’s passing, Sherab Sangpo returned to Kham, where he founded Jampaling Monastery in Chamdo. His efforts led to the widespread adoption of the Gelug school in eastern Tibet, making Chamdo a major center of Gelugpa influence. Through his dedication to monastic education and Tsongkhapa’s teachings, Sherab Sangpo firmly established the Gelug tradition in Kham, shaping the region’s religious landscape for centuries to come.
Jetsun Lodrö Chökyong: A Master Scholar & Holder of Tsongkhapa’s Legacy
Born in Lhundrup, Lhasa, Jetsun Lodrö Chökyong was a highly learned disciple of Je Tsongkhapa and was eventually appointed as the 5th Ganden Tripa, the supreme head of the Gelug school. His deep understanding of Sutra and Tantra made him one of the most influential figures in preserving and spreading Tsongkhapa’s teachings.
In later incarnations, he was reborn as Chökyi Sanggye Gyatso, who studied in Lhasa and was recognized by Sonam Gyatso, the 3rd Dalai Lama, as the reincarnation of Jetsun Lodrö Chökyong. Eventually, his reincarnation line was honored as the Muli Shangen tulku lineage, with the 7th Panchen Lama, Tenpai Nyima, composing a prayer for its transmission. Jetsun Lodrö Chökyong’s legacy continues through his reincarnation lineage, which has played a key role in preserving the Gelug tradition across different regions of Tibet.
Dülzin Drakpa Gyaltsen
Dülzin Drakpa Gyaltsen was one of Je Tsongkhapa’s foremost disciples and a key figure in the early development of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. As a highly disciplined monk and a brilliant scholar, he played a crucial role in establishing Ganden Monastery in 1409, the mother monastery of the Gelug tradition. His name, Dülzin, meaning “Holder of Discipline,” reflects his deep commitment to monastic ethics, which was a core principle of Tsongkhapa’s teachings. He was entrusted with the preservation and transmission of Tsongkhapa’s philosophical and Vinaya teachings, ensuring that the newly formed Gelug school remained rooted in both strict ethical conduct and profound intellectual inquiry.
Dülzin Drakpa Gyaltsen’s unwavering devotion to Tsongkhapa and his vision helped solidify the foundation of the Gelug tradition. He was responsible for maintaining the institutional and doctrinal purity of Tsongkhapa’s teachings, passing them down precisely to future generations. His contributions to the study of Madhyamaka philosophy and monastic discipline influenced the curriculum of Gelug monasteries, ensuring the stability and continuity of the tradition. Revered for his exemplary life as a monk, he remains a model of dedication and scholarship, embodying the values that define the Gelug school to this day.
Ngawang Drakpa
Ngawang Drakpa was a key but lesser-known disciple of Je Tsongkhapa, playing an important role in the spread of Gelug teachings beyond central Tibet. He was instrumental in establishing Reting Monastery in 1409, one of the earliest Gelug institutions, with Tsongkhapa’s direct guidance. Ngawang Drakpa’s dedication to monastic discipline and rigorous study reflected the core values of Tsongkhapa’s teachings, ensuring that the newly formed Gelug tradition had a strong foundation in both scholarship and ethical conduct.
Although not as widely recognized as some of Tsongkhapa’s other disciples, Ngawang Drakpa was essential in expanding the Gelug school’s influence, particularly in the northern and eastern regions of Tibet. He worked tirelessly to ensure that Tsongkhapa’s reforms in Buddhist philosophy, Vinaya discipline, and monastic education were upheld. His contributions helped solidify the Gelug tradition as a dominant force in Tibetan Buddhism, paving the way for future generations of scholars and practitioners.
Tokden Jampel Gyatso (1356 – 1428)
Tokden Jampel Gyatso was a distinguished Tibetan Buddhist scholar and practitioner closely associated with the Gelug school. From a young age, he displayed exceptional intelligence and dedication to Buddhist studies, training in monastic discipline, Madhyamaka philosophy, and Vajrayana practices. His scholarly achievements led to his recognition as Lobsang Chökyi Gyaltsen, the fifth Ganden Tripa, the official throne-holder of Ganden Monastery and the spiritual head of the Gelug tradition. As Ganden Tripa, he played a crucial role in preserving and promoting the teachings of Lama Tsongkhapa, ensuring the continuity of his philosophical and monastic legacy.
His connection to Je Tsongkhapa was profound, as he was a key guardian of Tsongkhapa’s doctrinal system. He maintained the Prasangika Madhyamaka view, which Tsongkhapa had elaborated using rigorous logic and scriptural analysis. As Ganden Tripa, he held the responsibility of ensuring that Tsongkhapa’s teachings were passed down without distortion. Under his leadership, the monastic education system continued to emphasize debate, logical reasoning, and tantric practice, reinforcing the distinct scholarly and meditative approach of the Gelug tradition.
These disciples played a crucial role in ensuring the teachings of Tsongkhapa were not only preserved but also expanded across various regions. They established monasteries, taught extensively, and continued the lineage, making significant contributions to the spread of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Their work helped to cement Tsongkhapa’s teachings as a central pillar of Tibetan spiritual and cultural life. Through their efforts, Tsongkhapa’s teachings continue to thrive and inspire practitioners around the world.