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Buddhism in Tibet
Buddhism in Tibet arrived relatively late compared to other regions, becoming the dominant religion on the Tibetan plateau around the 7th century.
Over the next few centuries, Tibet received Buddhist texts and practices culminating in the flourishing of Buddhism, particularly the Vajrayāna (Tantric) form.
This article will explore the history of Buddhism in Tibet, the different schools, famous figures, and monasteries, and the impact this religion has had on Tibetan culture and society.
History of Buddhism in Tibet
Early History (7th – 9th Centuries)
Buddhism was formally introduced to Tibet during the Tibetan Empire (7th–9th century CE).
The imperial government supported the first dissemination of Buddhism, beginning with King Songtsän Gampo’s reign (618–649), the first emperor of a unified Tibet.
The King is credited for introducing Buddhism to Tibet, influenced by his Nepali wife Bhrikuti and Chinese wife Wencheng, both devout Buddhists.
Bhrikuti, the daughter of Amshuvarma, co-ruler, and successor of Sivadeva I, brought many sacred Buddhist images and Newar artisans to Tibet as part of her dowry.
Together with Songtsän Gampo, she built the Jokhang Temple in Lhasa to house these holy images.
Both princesses brought Buddhist scriptures and statues to Tibet, contributing to the early spread of the religion.
King Trisong Detsen (755–797 CE) later established Buddhism as the state’s official religion and commanded his army to wear robes and study Buddhism.
This period saw the translation of Sanskrit Buddhist scriptures from India into Tibetan, the development of the Tibetan writing system, and the construction of the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, Samye.
Buddhist scholars, including Padmasambhāva and Santaraksita, were invited to Tibet, and they played a crucial role in establishing the Nyingma school, the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism.
It is essential to note the interplay between Buddhism and the indigenous Bon religion during this period.
While Buddhism gradually gained prominence, Bon influenced it, leading to mutual adaptation and incorporation of Bon deities into the Buddhist pantheon.
The Era of Fragmentation and Revival (9th – 12th Centuries)
With the collapse of the Tibetan empire in the mid-9th century, Buddhism’s influence in Tibet waned.
A period of fragmentation ensued, marked by political instability and a decline in Buddhist practice. However, Buddhism experienced a revival in the 11th century.
This revival was fueled by the founding of “New Translation” (Sarma) lineages and the discovery of “hidden treasures” (terma) texts, which revitalized the Nyingma tradition.
Furthermore, Buddhism’s “second diffusion” in the 9th and 10th centuries solidified its position as the majority religion in Tibet.
Mongol Influence and Spread (13th – 20th Centuries)
As the Mongol Empire rose in the 13th century, Tibetan Buddhism spread beyond Tibet’s borders, reaching Central Asia and China.
The Mongol Yuan dynasty (1271–1368) in China actively patronized Tibetan Buddhism, further solidifying its influence.
This patronage continued under the Ming (1368–1644) and Qing (1644–1912) dynasties.
Modern Era (20th Century – Present)
The 20th century brought significant challenges for Tibetan Buddhism.
The Chinese occupation of Tibet in the 1950s led to the exile of many Tibetan lamas, including the Dalai Lama, and the destruction of numerous religious sites during the Cultural Revolution.
Despite these hardships, Tibetan Buddhism has experienced a revival in recent decades within Tibet and among new followers worldwide.
Schools of Tibetan Buddhism
Tibetan Buddhism comprises four major schools, all tracing their origins to Buddha Shakyamuni through an unbroken lineage of enlightened masters and disciples:
Nyingma (8th century)
Founded by Padmasambhava, this school emphasizes tantric practices and the importance of “hidden treasures” (terma) texts.
These terma texts, believed to have been hidden by Padmasambhava himself, are revealed by tertöns (treasure revealers) and contribute to the unique character of Nyingma and Tibetan Buddhism.
Kagyu (11th century)
Known for its focus on oral transmission and the Mahamudra teachings, which aim to realize the true nature of the mind.
This emphasis on direct transmission from teacher to student distinguishes Kagyu from other schools that emphasize scriptural study.
Sakya (1073)
Characterized by its emphasis on scholarship and philosophical analysis, with a unique system of interpreting Buddhist scriptures.
Gelug (1409)
The newest and most influential school, founded by Je Tsongkhapa, emphasizes monastic discipline and rigorous study of Buddhist philosophy.
While each school shares the fundamental goal of achieving Buddhahood and liberating all beings from suffering, they have evolved with various divergent practices, beliefs, and rituals.
For example, the Gelug school is known for its emphasis on monasticism and scholarly debate, while the Nyingma school incorporates elements of the indigenous Tibetan religion, Bon.
The Kagyu school emphasizes meditation and direct experience, while the Sakya school focuses on a particular lineage of teachings and practices.
In addition to these four primary schools, Tibetan Buddhism includes eight major practice lineages known as the “Eight Great Chariots” or the “Eight Practice Lineages.”
These lineages represent different approaches to Buddhist practice and encompass a wide range of teachings and techniques.
Famous Buddhist Figures and Monasteries in Tibet
Songtsän Gampo (7th century): The Tibetan King who unified Tibet and is credited with introducing Buddhism to the region.
He established the Tibetan Empire and promoted Buddhism through the construction of temples and the translation of scriptures.
Padmasambhava (8th century): A Buddhist master who had a vital role in establishing the Nyingma school and is revered as a second Buddha by his followers.
He is credited with subduing demonic forces and establishing many important monasteries.
Santaraksita (725–788): An Indian Buddhist scholar who helped establish Buddhism in Tibet by overseeing the construction of Samye Monastery and ordaining the first Tibetan monks.
Atisa (982–1054): An Indian Buddhist master who initiated a reform movement in Tibetan Buddhism, emphasizing ethical conduct and the integration of monastic and lay practices.
Jetsun Milarepa (11th century): A renowned yogi and poet who overcame a complicated past to achieve enlightenment through perseverance and meditation.
He is considered one of the most significant figures in Tibetan Buddhism.
Thangthong Gyalpo (1385-1464): A famous Tibetan civil engineer, philosopher, and iron bridge builder.
He is known for contributing to Tibetan infrastructure and integrating Buddhist principles into his work.
Famous Monasteries
Tibet is home to numerous monasteries crucial in preserving and transmitting Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Some of the most famous include:
Jokhang Temple (Lhasa): The most sacred temple in Tibet, was built in the 7th century by Songtsän Gampo to house important Buddhist statues.
Potala Palace (Lhasa): The winter palace of the Dalai Lamas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism.
Sera Monastery (Lhasa): Known for its lively monk debates, one of the “Great Three Gelugpa Monasteries,” where monks engage in rigorous philosophical discussions.
Drepung Monastery (Lhasa): One of the largest monasteries in the world, historically home to over 10,000 monks and a major center of learning and religious practice.
Ganden Monastery (Lhasa): The first monastery of the Gelug school, founded by Je Tsongkhapa, and an essential center for studying Buddhist philosophy.
Tashi Lhunpo Monastery (Shigatse): The seat of the Panchen Lama, the second most influential figure in Tibetan Buddhism after the Dalai Lama.
Samye Monastery (Lhoka): The oldest Buddhist monastery in Tibet, built in the 8th century and known for its unique mandala-like design.
Sakya Monastery (Shigatse): The main monastery of the Sakya school, known for its extensive library and unique architectural style.
Trandruk Temple (Lhoka): The first Buddhist chapel in Tibet, built in the 7th century.
Korjak Monastery (Ngari): The most famous monastery in the Ngari Prefecture, known for its remote location and historical significance.
Tholing Monastery (Ngari): The oldest monastery in the Ngari Prefecture, founded in the 10th century.
Rongbuk Monastery (Shigatse): The highest monastery in the world, located at the base of Mount Everest.
Cultural and Social Impact of Buddhism in Tibet
Buddhism has profoundly shaped Tibetan culture and society. It has influenced art, literature, music, medicine, and daily life.
Key aspects of this influence include:
Dominant Cultural Form: Buddhism became the dominant cultural form in Tibet, influencing not only religion but also politics, the arts, and other aspects of society.
Tibetan art, music, and literature are deeply imbued with Buddhist themes and symbolism.
Monasticism: Tibetan Buddhism strongly emphasized monasticism, with monasteries serving as centers of learning and social welfare.
Monasteries provided education, healthcare, and community support, vital to Tibetan society.
Spiritual Place: Buddhism created a “spiritual place” in the minds of Tibetans, shaping their inner lives and influencing their cultural and social concepts.
Buddhist principles of compassion, non-violence, and the pursuit of enlightenment permeated Tibetan society.
Social Activism: Buddhist principles have inspired social activism in Tibet, with movements for human rights, environmental protection, and non-violence.
The Dalai Lama, for example, has been a prominent advocate for peace and non-violence.
Intertwined with Politics: Political and religious authority have been closely intertwined in Tibet, particularly since the Dalai Lamas began ruling mid-17th century.
The Dalai Lama was the spiritual leader and head of state, embodying the fusion of religious and political authority.
Despite facing challenges in modern times, Buddhism remains deeply ingrained in Tibetan identity and continues to play a vital role in Tibetan communities.
Conclusion
Buddhism in Tibet has a rich and complex history, marked by flourishing, suppression, and revival periods.
The religion has deeply influenced Tibetan culture and society, shaping art, literature, philosophy, and daily life.
While facing ongoing challenges from the Chinese government, Tibetan Buddhism remains a vital force in Tibetan communities and continues to attract followers worldwide.
The four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, each with its unique lineages and practices, offer diverse approaches to achieving enlightenment and liberating all beings from suffering.
The monasteries of Tibet stand as testaments to the enduring legacy of this ancient tradition, serving as centers of learning, meditation, and spiritual practice.
Globalization and modernization also pose challenges to Tibetan Buddhist practices.
As Tibet becomes increasingly integrated into the global economy and exposed to new ideas and values, there is a risk of cultural assimilation and the drain of traditional practices.
However, Tibetan Buddhism has shown remarkable adaptability throughout its history, and it has the potential to evolve and thrive in the modern world.
Ultimately, the future of Tibetan Buddhism depends on the ability of Tibetans to navigate these challenges and preserve their cultural and spiritual heritage.
Preserving Tibetan Buddhism is necessary for Tibetans and the world, as it offers a unique and valuable contribution to human spirituality and cultural diversity.
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