Definition

Proper noun A major school of Buddhism practiced primarily in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan, and parts of Nepal, India, and Russia. It incorporates the core teachings of Mahayana Buddhism along with unique tantric practices (Vajrayana) and has integrated elements from the pre-Buddhist Bon shamanistic tradition of Tibet.

Usage

"Tibetan Buddhism" refers to the specific religious tradition, its institutions, and its practices. * The Dalai Lama is a spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. * She has been studying Tibetan Buddhism for over a decade. * The monastery is a center for Tibetan Buddhist studies. (Note: 'Buddhist' becomes an adjective here)

Advanced Usage

• Historical Integration: The definition notes that Tibetan Buddhism includes "elements from India that are not Buddhist and elements of preexisting shamanism." This refers to the absorption of certain tantric practices from Indian traditions and the integration of local Tibetan Bon spirit and deity worship into Buddhist frameworks.
• Doctrinal Distinction: While rooted in Mahayana Buddhism, it is often characterized separately due to its emphasis on tantric techniques, elaborate rituals, and a complex system of lamas (teachers).

Variants and Related Words

• Lamaism: An older, sometimes considered less accurate, term for Tibetan Buddhism, emphasizing the role of lamas.
• Vajrayana Buddhism: The "Diamond Vehicle"; the tantric Buddhist path that is the cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhist practice.
• Gelug, Kagyu, Nyingma, Sakya: The four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
• Lama (n.): A spiritual teacher or guide in Tibetan Buddhism.
• Tibetan Buddhist (adj.): Of or relating to Tibetan Buddhism.

Synonyms

• Vajrayana Buddhism (though this term can also apply to tantric traditions in other regions like Japan).
• Lamaism (dated/contextual).

Related Phrases

• Tibetan Buddhist monk/nun: A person ordained in this tradition.
• Tibetan Buddhist philosophy: The doctrinal and philosophical systems, such as Madhyamaka and Yogacara, studied within the tradition.
• Tibetan Buddhist art: The distinctive religious art, including thangka paintings and sand mandalas.

Noun

1. a Buddhist doctrine that includes elements from India that are not Buddhist and elements of preexisting shamanism