Jampa Gyaltsen

This project focuses on the Geluk Tradition’s unique, yet understudied, theory of the Buddha Trait—sangs rgyas kyi rigs—, also commonly known as Buddha Nature—de bzhin snying po. This study provides a comprehensive introduction to Geluk views on this topic and promotes recognition of Tibetan scholarship. To this end, it focuses on the translation of two texts: The first is “A General Introduction to The Buddha” by Jetsün Chökyi Gyeltsen, the famed author of the Sera Jey Monastery textbooks born in 1469. The second is “A Festival for Scholars” by Lharampa Geshe Lobsang Gyatso, a present-day luminary born in 1979. This study demonstrates how Gelukpas have adapted their explanation within different zeitgeists and for different audiences.