Langdarma

Langdarma. Langdarma, also known as Lha Ngang or U Dharma, was the second emperor of the Tibetan Empire and ruled from 838 to 841. He is infamous for his persecution of Buddhism in Tibet. Langdarma's reign marked a significant period of turmoil in Tibetan history. His actions had a lasting impact on Tibetan Buddhism.

Early Life and Reign

Langdarma was the son of Emperor Trisong Detsen and a Chinese princess. During his early life, Langdarma was exposed to the influences of Buddhism, which had been introduced to Tibet by Padmasambhava and Śāntarakṣita. Langdarma ascended to the throne in 838, following the death of his brother, Emperor Muné Tsenpo. At the beginning of his reign, Langdarma faced opposition from the Sichuan region and the Bön priests.

Conversion to Buddhism

Initially, Langdarma was not a Buddhist, but his sister, Princess Yeshe Tsogyal, was a devout practitioner. She attempted to convert him to Buddhism, but he refused. However, Langdarma was influenced by the Bön priests and their shamanistic practices. He eventually became disillusioned with Buddhism due to the corrupt practices of some Buddhist monks.

Persecution of Buddhism

Langdarma's persecution of Buddhism began around 840. He ordered the destruction of monasteries and the execution of monks. Many Buddhist scriptures were burned, and the practice of Buddhism was severely restricted. This period of persecution is known as the "time of the 'black' or 'dark' Dharma". Langdarma's actions were likely motivated by his desire to suppress the growing influence of Buddhism in Tibet.

Death and Legacy

Langdarma's reign of terror was short-lived. He was killed in 841 by a Buddhist monk named Lhalung Pelgyi Dorje, who was a member of the Nyingma school. According to legend, Lhalung Pelgyi Dorje shot Langdarma with a poisoned arrow while he was out hunting. Langdarma's death marked the end of a period of significant turmoil in Tibetan history.

Impact on Tibetan Buddhism

Langdarma's persecution of Buddhism had a lasting impact on Tibetan Buddhism. The period of persecution led to a decline in the number of Buddhist monks and the destruction of many monasteries. However, it also led to a renewed emphasis on the importance of preserving Buddhist teachings and practices. The Nyingma and Kagyu schools of Tibetan Buddhism played a significant role in preserving Buddhist teachings during this period. The legacy of Langdarma serves as a reminder of the complex and often tumultuous history of Tibetan Buddhism. Category:Tibetan Empire Category:Tibetan Buddhism Category:Persecution of Buddhists