Tibetian Buddhist Philosopher
[1859-1938]
A Tibetian from birth, Je Tsong Khapa was the main teacher of the first Dalai Lama, Genden Drub, and many perceive him as a second buddha.
Khapa is primarily responsible for creating the new Gelugpa Sect, reforming the old Kadampa sect, and converting Mongolia and neighboring states to Tibetian Buddhism. He is also responsible for the creation of the Ganden Monastic Univerisity in East Lhasa, one of the largest monstaries in its region. Additionally, he created other Gelugpa monasteries in Central Tibet, which have endured throughout time.
For most of his life, Khapa travelled across Tibet collecting Buddhist materials until he had completely perfected all areas of Buddhist rhetoric. Due to his contributions to Buddhism, Tibetians view Khapa as an emanation of the Bhuddist god of Wisdom, Manjushri. As a youth, Khapa was known to have visions and conversations with Manjushri, which adds credence to the aforementioned belief.
Khapa's main works include:
The Great Exposition of the Path of Secret Mantra
Three Principal Aspects of the Path
Khapa's Three Principal Aspects of the Path has probably received the most acclaim of any of his writings.
Other sources of information
The Window-Je Tsong Khapa
Tsongkhapa Web site
Je Tsong Khapa
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