The Life of dPa' bo gTsug lag phreng ba (1504–1566) with a Focus on His Contribution to the Tibetan Scholastic Tradition

Abstract

dPa' bo gTsug lag phreng ba is a well-known 16th-century scholar and historian who lived during the heyday of Tibetan scholasticism, and a figure of particular importance to the Karma bKa' brgyud tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. Although his overall impact was remarkable, and his Tibetan religious history mKhas pa'i dga' ston is widely accepted as a significant, unique, and reliable source by Tibetan scholars and academics alike, his life and writings are little studied. His scholarly contributions to the study of Tibetan Buddhism are virtually unrecognised. Therefore, this thesis addresses this lacuna.

Using mainly philological and historical analysis, this research explores his life and work within the context of his time. With the study of life, this project is expected to contribute to the historical understanding of 16th-century Tibet in general and the history of the Karma bKa' brgyud school in particular. The study of his various texts sheds light on his scholarly contribution to Tibetan Buddhist studies. Treatment of the doctrinal stances he held also contributes to the discourse and intellectual history of the Tibetan scholastic tradition, especially of the Karma bKa' brgyud school.

The first chapter lays a foundation for this research by identifying its aims and objectives and outcomes. Research methodologies are also delineated in the first chapter. The second chapter mainly studies his life, including his education, recognition as a reincarnated master, and his scholarly deeds. The third chapter surveys his scholarly writings and provides an overview of his texts. The fourth chapter discusses his main commentaries and their significance. Some of his philosophical stances are also explored. The fifth chapter summarises the findings of this research.