Lama

/'lɑ:mə/
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Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism: A lama is a religious teacher or monk in Tibetan Buddhism, specifically within the Vajrayana tradition. The term is used for those who have achieved a high level of spiritual development and can guide others.
Usage
  • The word "lama" is a countable noun. It refers specifically to a person, a spiritual leader.
  • It is often preceded by titles such as "Dalai" or "Panchen" to denote specific, high-ranking lamas.
  • Example: "The village sought guidance from the local lama." (This shows the lama as a spiritual advisor.)
  • Example: "She traveled to the monastery to study under a renowned lama." (This shows the lama as a teacher.)
Examples
  • Noun:
    • The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism.
    • After years of meditation, he was recognized as a reincarnated lama.
    • The lama led the prayer ceremony at dawn.
Advanced Usage
  • "High Lama": Refers to a lama of significant rank or authority within the religious hierarchy.
    • The decision required the approval of a High Lama.
  • "Incarnate Lama" (Tulku): A lama who is believed to be the rebirth of a previous master.
    • The search party was sent to find the new incarnate lama.
Variants and Related Words
  • Lamaism (n): The form of Buddhism practiced in Tibet and Mongolia, characterized by the central role of lamas.
    • Lamaism incorporates many tantric practices.
  • Lamais t (n/adj): (Rare) Pertaining to Lamaism or a follower of Lamaism.
Synonyms
  • Monk: A member of a religious community of men, but this is a more general term not specific to Tibetan Buddhism.
  • Guru: A spiritual teacher, especially in Hinduism and some forms of Buddhism, but it is a broader, cross-cultural term.
  • Rinpoche: A Tibetan honorific title meaning "precious one," often used for respected lamas and teachers.
Notes on Different Meanings
  • Distinction from "Llama": The word "lama" (priest) is a homophone with the animal "llama" (a South American camelid). They are spelled differently and have completely unrelated meanings.
    • Incorrect: "The lama spit at the tourist." (This confuses the animal with the priest).
    • Correct: "The llama is a domesticated animal." / "The lama gave a teaching."
Noun
  1. llamas
  2. a Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism