Political Rivalry and Doctrinal Debates: A Modern Tibetan Response to the Controversy of Buddhist Revelation
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Abstract
In the history of Buddhism political conflict has often been
tied to doctrinal issues and discussions concerning the authenticity
of scriptural sources. One such example can be found in Tibet during
the so-called “renaissance period” from the 10th to the 14th century.
During this time various schools would compete for the favors of
the political establishment, often doing so by claiming superiority
on doctrinal issues. This paper traces the history of one of the key
discussions in this period, namely the controversies surrounding
the treasure tradition (gter lugs) of the Ancient School (rnying
ma), and outlines the main areas of content while also considering
a modern response to this conflict offered by one of the greatest
masters of 20th century Tibetan Buddhism, Mipham Namgyal
(1846-1912).
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