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