Tubgyur

Tubgyur is a term primarily associated with Tibetan Buddhism, referring to the translated corpus of Buddhist scriptures. This vast collection comprises the Kangyur (spoken words of the Buddha) and the Tengyur (commentaries and treatises by Indian and Tibetan scholars). The arduous process of translating these texts from Sanskrit and other languages into Tibetan began in the 8th century and continued for several centuries, involving numerous translators, scholars, and patrons.

The Kangyur contains a wide range of Buddhist teachings, including sutras, tantras, and monastic rules. The Tengyur offers extensive commentaries on these scriptures, explaining their meaning and providing philosophical and practical guidance. The compilation of the Tubgyur was a monumental undertaking that played a crucial role in the development and dissemination of Buddhism in Tibet and neighboring regions. It served as the foundational text for Tibetan Buddhist philosophy, practice, and monastic education.

The organization and canonization of the Tubgyur underwent several revisions over time, with different editions reflecting varying emphases and textual traditions. These translated scriptures remain central to Tibetan Buddhist monastic institutions and scholarly traditions today, continuing to be studied and practiced by monks, nuns, and lay practitioners. The Tubgyur represents a significant cultural and intellectual achievement, preserving and transmitting a rich heritage of Buddhist thought.