Gelug

Gelug The Gelug school, also known as the "Virtuous" school, is one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its emphasis on the Prasangika-Madhyamaka philosophy. The Gelug school was founded by Je Tsongkhapa in the 14th century and is known for its rigorous approach to Buddhist monasticism. The school's tradition is led by the Dalai Lama, a prominent spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. The Gelug school has had a profound impact on Tibetan culture and Buddhist philosophy.

History

The Gelug school was founded by Je Tsongkhapa (1357-1419), a renowned Tibetan Buddhist scholar and monk, in the early 15th century. Tsongkhapa was a student of the Sakya school and was influenced by the teachings of Atiśa, a renowned Indian Buddhist scholar. The Gelug school gained prominence in the 16th century when the Third Dalai Lama, Sonam Gyatso, was appointed as the spiritual leader of the school. The Gelug school eventually became the dominant school of Tibetan Buddhism, with the Dalai Lama as its spiritual leader.

Philosophy

The Gelug school is known for its emphasis on the Prasangika-Madhyamaka philosophy, which was developed by Chandrakirti in the 7th century. This philosophy emphasizes the concept of emptiness (shunyata) and the Two Truths doctrine. The Gelug school also emphasizes the importance of logic and epistemology in understanding Buddhist philosophy. The school's philosophical views are based on the teachings of Nagarjuna, Aryadeva, and Dharamakirti.

Practices

The Gelug school places great emphasis on monastic discipline and tantric practices. The school's monastic tradition is based on the Vinaya and the Pratimoksha vows. The Gelug school also practices various tantric rituals and meditations, including the Kalachakra and Guhyasamaja tantras. The school's practices are guided by the Lamrim teachings, which provide a comprehensive framework for spiritual practice.

Subsects

The Gelug school has several subsects, including the Dagyab, Shagpa, and Khon. These subsects were formed by various Tibetan Buddhist masters who were influenced by the Gelug school's teachings. The subsects have their own distinct practices and traditions, but they all share the Gelug school's emphasis on the Prasangika-Madhyamaka philosophy.

Influence

The Gelug school has had a profound impact on Tibetan culture and Buddhist philosophy. The school's teachings have influenced various aspects of Tibetan society, including art, literature, and politics. The Gelug school has also played a significant role in the development of Buddhist philosophy in East Asia, particularly in Mongolia and China.

Lineage

The Gelug school's lineage is traced back to Je Tsongkhapa, who is considered the founder of the school. The school's spiritual leaders, including the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama, are considered to be the reincarnations of Avalokiteshvara and Vairocana, respectively. The Gelug school's lineage is based on the Tulku tradition, which emphasizes the importance of reincarnation and continuity of consciousness. Category:Tibetan Buddhist schools