84000's editorial co-director Dr. John Canti explored the Tibetan Buddhist Canon in this three-part conversation series, revealing how ancient scriptures reached Tibet, what treasures they contain, and why they remain urgently relevant today.
On March 20th, 2021—marking the anniversary of the 2009 conference 'Translating the Words of the Buddha' from which 84000 originated—Dr. John Canti, editorial co-director at 84000, joined Joie Chen, PhD candidate in Buddhist Studies at Harvard University, for an illuminating three-part conversation series titled The Kangyur: Holy Relic, Time Capsule, or Goldmine?
This inaugural webinar series explored the remarkable story of the Kangyur—the collection of Buddha's teachings in Tibetan—tracing how these sacred texts journeyed across the Himalayas, what wisdom they preserve, and how they continue to speak to contemporary life.
The webinar represented 84000's first foray into digital events—part of a broader vision to bring talks from the team and colleagues in the Buddhist studies community to a global audience. With a focus on diving deep into foundational Buddhist texts to spark discussion of textual revelations, inspire cross-organizational collaboration, and revitalize a 2,500-year legacy of wisdom, the series offered friends and supporters a meaningful way to engage with the Kangyur in today's world.
Dr. Canti's deep scholarship combined with his gift for accessible storytelling made one of humanity's great wisdom traditions approachable to both newcomers and longtime practitioners alike.
Part One: The Journey to Tibet
Beginning with the oral tradition and recognizing that ancient Indian cultures were relatively late in developing written records, Dr. Canti led viewers on a journey across the spiritual landscape of early Buddhist Asia. He outlined various routes of trade and cross-cultural exchange, placing the Kangyur in geographical and historical context while shedding light on how and when Tibetans first engaged with these Buddhist scriptures.
Part Two: Treasures Within
The conversation offered a guided tour through the Kangyur's contents, from profound philosophical teachings to practical guidance for daily life, illuminating why these texts remain vital sources of wisdom and exploring the later codification of the canon.
Part Three: Living Tradition
The series explored how the Kangyur has been studied, practiced, and preserved across centuries, and why engaging with these ancient texts matters as much now as it ever has.
Dr. John Canti was a founding member of 84000’s executive committee and editorial team and is now senior editor.
