The Life and Activities of Rin chen bzaṅ po

Journal Article

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Descriptionངོ་སྤྲོད།

This article, "Rin chen bzaṅ poの生涯とその活動" (The Life and Activities of Rin chen bzaṅ po), by Kawagoe Eishin, details the significant contributions of Rin chen bzaṅ po (958–1055) to the revival of Tibetan Buddhism during the later propagation (phyi dar) period. It highlights his pivotal role in reestablishing Buddhist teachings in Tibet after a period of decline following the suppression by King Langdarma in the mid-9th century. The article examines his extensive translation work, particularly of new tantras (gSan snags gsar ma) from Sanskrit into Tibetan, often in collaboration with Indian paṇḍitas. It also explores his connections with the mNah ris royal family, who were instrumental in supporting the Buddhist revival, and his interactions with key figures like Atīśa (Dīpaṃkaraśrījñāna) in his later life.

The article traces Rin chen bzaṅ po's journey, including his three trips to Kashmir for study and the acquisition of Buddhist texts, emphasizing his focus on the Yoginī and Anuttarayoga Tantras, which were previously restricted in Tibet. It discusses his establishment of numerous monasteries in the mNah ris region, most notably Tho lin, which became a center for the integration of Kashmiri artistry and Buddhist practices in Western Tibet. Furthermore, the article delves into the lineage of his disciples and the impact of his translation and teaching activities, particularly concerning the Samvara tantras, which were introduced to Tibet through his efforts with Atīśa. The author concludes by acknowledging Rin chen bzaṅ po's historical significance as a "great translator" who paved the way for a new era of Tibetan Buddhism.

Citation

Kawagoe, Eishin (川越英真). "Rin chen bzaṅ po の生涯とその活動" (The Life and Activities of Rin chen bzaṅ po). 文化 (Culture) 46, no. 1/2 (1982): 44–73.