A Brief History of Tibetan Academic Degrees in Buddhist Philosophy

In this survey Tarab Tulku, a distinguished scholar and holder of the Lharampa degree, offers important insights into the history and structure of the Tibetan scholastic tradition, and the changes that it has undergone over the last eight hundred years.

Drawing on numerous original Tibetan sources the academic degrees are described along with the etymology of the various titles. The methodology, curricula and examination procedures of the great monastic colleges are also briefly outlined. This original survey may function as an introduction to further inquiries into the unique nature of the Tibetan methodology for the academic study of Buddhist philosophy.

Tarab Tulku

Tarab Tulku, L.R.G.S, Dr.Phil., (1934-2004) was a Tibetan lama educated at the University of Drepung Monastery in Tibet. Here, he achieved the highest academic degree of a Lharampa Geshe in Buddhist philosophy and metaphysics, as well as in meditation disciplines including Tantra.

His work included lecturing at Copenhagen University, and researching at the Royal Library of Copenhagen. Tarab Tulku was also known for creating his own adaptation of Tibetan Buddhist techniques, and establised a four year education in "Unity in Duality" which he taught in Europe.

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A Brief History of Tibetan Academic Degrees in Buddhist Philosophy

by Tarab Tulku

Tarab Tulku

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