key term - Tengyur

Definition

Tengyur refers to a collection of Tibetan Buddhist texts that include commentaries and treatises on various teachings, primarily from the Indian tradition. These texts are considered essential for understanding the depth of Buddhist philosophy and practice, as they provide interpretations and elucidations of the original teachings found in the Kangyur, the translated words of the Buddha. Tengyur is crucial for the development and transmission of Tibetan Buddhism, especially within its diverse schools and lineages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tengyur encompasses texts that are not only commentaries but also philosophical treatises on various aspects of Buddhist teachings, contributing significantly to Tibetan scholarly tradition.
2. The Tengyur was compiled over several centuries, reflecting the ongoing development and adaptation of Buddhist thought in Tibet, especially during the second diffusion of Buddhism in the 11th century onwards.
3. Different Tibetan Buddhist schools, like Nyingma and Sakya, may place varying emphasis on specific Tengyur texts according to their unique doctrinal focuses.
4. The teachings found in Tengyur often address advanced topics such as emptiness, bodhicitta, and methods for achieving enlightenment, making them vital for serious practitioners.
5. Many important Tibetan masters wrote commentaries that are included in the Tengyur, which are still studied today as they provide insights into both historical context and practical application.

Review Questions

• How does tengyur complement the kangyur in the study of Tibetan Buddhism?
  • Tengyur complements kangyur by providing necessary commentaries and interpretations that elaborate on the original teachings found in kangyur, which contains the direct words of the Buddha. While kangyur serves as a foundational scripture for practitioners, tengyur enhances understanding by unpacking complex concepts and offering context for their application. This relationship allows for a deeper grasp of Buddhist philosophy within various Tibetan traditions.
• Evaluate the impact of tengyur on the development of different Tibetan Buddhist schools and lineages.
  • The impact of tengyur on Tibetan Buddhist schools is significant as it shapes their interpretations and practices based on differing philosophical perspectives. Each school often prioritizes certain texts within the tengyur collection that align with their doctrinal views. As a result, tengyur serves not only as an essential source for academic study but also as a guide for practitioners to navigate their specific paths towards enlightenment within Tibetan Buddhism.
• Assess how tengyur reflects the historical evolution of Buddhist thought in Tibet.
  • Tengyur reflects the historical evolution of Buddhist thought in Tibet by showcasing how interpretations have developed over time in response to cultural, social, and political changes. The compilation process involved various scholars who integrated indigenous perspectives alongside traditional Indian teachings, resulting in a unique synthesis that characterizes Tibetan Buddhism. This evolving nature demonstrates how tengyur has not only preserved foundational teachings but has also adapted them to address contemporary issues faced by practitioners throughout Tibetan history.

Related terms

Kangyur: Kangyur is the collection of translated scriptures of the Buddha's words, which serves as one of the two main collections of Tibetan Buddhist texts.

Commentary: A commentary is a text that explains and interprets the meanings of primary scriptures, aiding practitioners in their understanding of complex teachings.

Gelug: Gelug is one of the main schools of Tibetan Buddhism founded by Je Tsongkhapa, known for its emphasis on monastic discipline and scholarly study.