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The History of Tibetan Buddhism
Buddhism was first introduced in Tibet during the 4th
century from its neighboring countries of Kashmir or Nepal and it become
the court religion
in the 7th century. The major religion at the time was Bon, which played
a major role in the
development
of Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan Buddhism differs from other forms of Buddhism
in its belief in oracles, the use of exorcism and its concept of the
soul. The use of prayer wheels and prayer
flags are also unique features of Tibetan Buddhism, although the
later is seen in other Asian countries as well. In 1042 Tibetan Buddhist
sects started to appear.
These sects were heavily based on how much of the Bon religion they
accepted as part of Buddhism and what school of Indian Buddhism they
most closely followed. Buddhism soon became the predominant religion
in Tibet. In the 14th century there was a large reform movement, the
result of which was the domination of the Gelugpa sect. 4
5
6
Tibetan prayer wheels (top), called Mani in Tibet,
are used to spread blessings and well being. Each wheel consists of an
axle on which rolls
of thin paper are wound with the mantra (prayer) Om Mani Padme Hun. 7 Prayer
flags (left) are inscribed with mantras. There is a belief that the
wind will carry these prayers and
bring happiness, longevity and prosperity to the owner and all others
in the land. 8
The Dalai Lama
During the 16th century the title of Dalia
Lama was bestowed
on the third Gelugpa leader, Sonam Gyatso by the Mongol leader Altan Khan
who was amazed
by the teachings of Buddhism. The term is Mongolian for "Oceanic Teacher."
In the 17th century the Fifth Dalai Lama became the spiritual and temporal
leader of Tibet. In Tibet the Dalai Lama is known as Gyalwa Rinpoche
(Victorious One) or Kyabngon Rinpoche (Precious Protector). 9 The
Dalai Lamas are believed to be manifestaions of Chenrezig, a being that
is enlightened
in the ways of Buddhism. The reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is found by
Tibetan Buddhist astrologers at death of the present Dalai Lama and is
brought to Lhasa to learn the ways of politics. Tibet is
now under
the rule of the Fourtheenth Dalai Lama, who is in exile in
India. 10
