What are the Kangyur and Tengyur?
In the Buddhist Tibetan tradition, the Kangyur and Tengyur are collections of sacred texts and commentaries that are considered authoritative sources of Buddhist teachings and philosophy.
The Kangyur
The Kangyur, which means "Translated Words," is a collection of scriptures that contain the words of the Buddha himself, as well as teachings attributed to other enlightened beings. It includes sutras (teachings of the Buddha), tantras (esoteric teachings), and shastras (commentaries by Indian Buddhist masters). The Kangyur is divided into sections based on the type of teachings and is considered the primary source of Buddhist doctrine in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Tengyur
The Tengyur, which means "Translated Treatises," is a complementary collection of commentaries, treatises, and exegeses written by Indian Buddhist scholars and masters. These texts provide interpretations, explanations, and elaborations on the teachings found in the Kangyur. The Tengyur covers a wide range of subjects, including philosophy, ethics, meditation, and ritual practices. It serves as a secondary source of Buddhist knowledge and is highly revered in Tibetan Buddhism for its scholarly and doctrinal significance.
Foundational, unique, and interwoven
Together, the Kangyur and Tengyur form the foundation of Buddhist study and practice in the Tibetan tradition. They are studied, memorized, and recited by monks, scholars, and practitioners as part of their spiritual training and quest for enlightenment. The Kangyur and Tengyur are considered essential repositories of wisdom and compassion, guiding followers on the path to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.