Tulku

Definition

A tulku is a recognized reincarnation of a revered spiritual teacher in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly within the Vajrayana tradition. This concept is central to Tibetan Buddhist practices, where certain high lamas and teachers are believed to have the ability to be reborn intentionally, taking on a new physical form to continue their work for the benefit of sentient beings. The identification of a tulku often involves specific rituals and signs that point to the individual’s previous life and spiritual accomplishments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The process of recognizing a tulku involves a search for specific signs and symbols that connect them to their previous incarnation, often including personal items from the former lama.
2. One of the most famous tulkus is the Dalai Lama, who is considered a reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of compassion.
3. Tulkus play a vital role in maintaining the continuity of teachings and lineage within Tibetan Buddhism, ensuring that spiritual wisdom is passed down through generations.
4. The recognition and training of a tulku can involve extensive community involvement, with local monks and laypeople contributing to the search and education process.
5. Controversies can arise around tulku recognition, especially when political factors come into play, such as rival claims to a particular tulku's identity or disputes over their authority.

Review Questions

• How do the rituals associated with identifying a tulku reflect the beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism?
  • Rituals involved in identifying a tulku showcase the deep-rooted belief in reincarnation and the continuity of spiritual leadership within Tibetan Buddhism. These rituals often include assessing specific signs, interpreting dreams, and using divination methods to find the reincarnated lama. This reflects how important it is for practitioners to maintain connections with revered teachers across lifetimes, emphasizing the significance of lineage in preserving teachings and guiding followers.
• Discuss the impact that the recognition of tulkus has on the structure and authority within Tibetan Buddhism.
  • The recognition of tulkus solidifies authority within Tibetan Buddhism by establishing a clear lineage of spiritual leaders. Each tulku carries not only the legacy of their predecessor but also a mandate to teach and guide followers. This system creates an intricate hierarchy that can lead to conflicts when multiple claims arise regarding who rightfully embodies a particular tulku. As such, these recognitions influence not just spiritual practices but also community dynamics and power relations among different Buddhist factions.
• Evaluate how political influences might affect the traditional process of recognizing and educating tulkus in contemporary contexts.
  • Political influences can significantly alter how tulkus are recognized and educated today, particularly given the historical context surrounding Tibet's relationship with China. Government regulations may attempt to control or influence which figures can be identified as tulkus, undermining traditional practices that emphasize spiritual rather than political considerations. This situation leads to tensions between maintaining authentic religious practices and navigating external political pressures, creating challenges for communities striving to honor their spiritual heritage while adapting to contemporary realities.

Related terms

Lama: A title for a teacher of the Dharma in Tibetan Buddhism, often used for spiritual leaders and guides who have attained a high level of knowledge.

Vajrayana:

A major branch of Buddhism known as Tantric Buddhism, which emphasizes esoteric teachings, rituals, and practices aimed at achieving enlightenment swiftly.

Rebirth: The cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Buddhism, where individuals are born into new lives based on their karma from previous existences.