About:

Tashi Bhutia

Position:

Affiliated Member

Node:

Identites and Religions

TWG:

Diversity, Identification and Distinction

Manuscript Studies in a Eurasian Context

 

 

The Life and Contribution of the Seventh Karmapa: Leadership and Scholarship in Tibetan Buddhism

Chos grags gya mtsho (1454–1506), the seventh reincarnation in the Karmapa line, stands as a towering figure in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, especially within the Karma bka’ brgyud tradition. Despite his profound impact on Tibetan thought and practice during his time, his life and works have not been thoroughly studied. This project aims to conduct the first historical study of Chos grags gya mtsho’s life and contributions, exploring key aspects such as his leadership, scholarly works, and overall influence. Given the subject matter and sources, this study employs a historical-philological approach to critically examine his life and contributions based on hagiographical sources, Chos grags gya mtsho’s writings, and several other historiographical sources.