Profiles of Tibetan Buddhists

Akong Rinpoche, Venerable Chuje
Tulku of Karma Kagyu and Nyingma lineages; Spiritual Director of Samye Ling Tibetan Centre. Former Abbot of Drolma Lhakhang monastery and retreat complex, Tsawa Gang, East Tibet. Received teachings from Jamgon Kongtrul of Shechen and other great teachers. Game to Britain in 1960s. 1967: with Trungpa Rinpoche established Kagyu Samye Ling Tibetan Centre in Johnstone House, Langholm, Dumfries-shire, Scotland. After departure of Trungpa Rinpoche for USA (c.1970), took charge of the centre; has since founded centres in other parts of the world (Spain, South Africa, etc).
Atisha (982-1054)
Famous Indian scholar of profound learning. Arrived in Tibet in 1038 and stayed until his death. Entirely reformed the prevailing Buddhism, enforcing celibacy in the existing Order and raised the level of morality. Founded the Kadampa school ('those bound by ordinance'). In the fifteenth century Tsong-khapa again reformed this School renaming it Gelugpa.
Bu-ston (1008-1064)
Tibetan Buddhist, member of the school of the 11th-century reformer Atisha. He translated much of the Buddhist sacred literature, including Tantra texts, into classic Tibetan and possibly (c.1060) made the definitive arrangement of the Kanjur and Tanjur, the two basic Tibetan collections of Buddhist principles.
Csoma de Koros, Alexander (1784-1842)
Hungarian pioneer of Tibetan studies. Born Transylvania; son of Calvinist border guard. Inspired to look for 'racial homeland' of Magyars. 1816-18: studied Arabic, Turkish, English and Ethnology at Gottingen. 1819: set out for East on foot; never reached Tibet but travelled and researched in frontier regions (e.g. Ladakh). Obtained modest British Government sponsorship; compiled the first Tibetan-English dictionary and a Tibetan Grammar (both published 1834). 1837-42: Librarian of Asiatic Society, Calcutta. 1842: set out again on quest for Magyar racial home; died Darjeeling of malaria. His analysis of the Kanjur and Tanjur was included in Waddell, L.A., The Buddhism of Tibet or Lamaism (1894). Various contributions to Journal of the Asiatic Society of Bengal. Dictionary, Grammar and Coll Writings representing Budapest 1984. 1920: Korosi Csoma Tarasag (Society) founded, Budapest.

Dalai Lama, His Holiness the XIVth (Gyalwa Tenzin Gyatso)
Exiled spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people. Born 1935, Taktser, Amdo, East Tibet of humble origins. Located and recognized as Dalai Lama incarnation 2 years later via portents discerned at the oracle lake (Lhama Lhatso). 1939: bought to Lhasa. 1940: formally enthroned. Began education at 6 years; at 24 years took preliminary exams at Sera, Drepung and Ganden monastic university's; final exams held at Jokhang ('Cathedral' of Lhasa) during Monlam Festival; awarded Geshe Lharampa degree with honours at age 25. At age 16 assumed full temporal powers early because of Chinese Communist threat. 1954: went to Peking to hold discussions with Chinese Communist leaders. 1956: visited India for 2500 Buddha Jayanti celebrations; held political discussions with Pandit Nehru and Chou En-lai. 1959: left Tibet following the Lhasa Uprising. Made unsuccessful appeals to United Nations on behalf of Tibetan people. 1963: promulgated draft democratic constitution for Tibet; since then has conducted government-in-exile at Dharamasala, North India, in accordance with this. Has also very successfully worked to resettle 100,000 Tibetan refugees and to preserve Tibetan religion, culture, etc. In 1989 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Widely travelled in both East and West (though has never returned to his native Tibet), has met political and spiritual leaders (including two Popes, an Archbishop of Canterbury, etc.), scientists, doctors, writers, philosophers - and ordinary people. Has impressed people everywhere with his (very Buddhist) message of peace and kindness:' My religion is very simple - my religion is kindness.' A spiritual leader of world rank. Books including Opening the Eye of New Awareness; Kindness, Clarity & Insight; My Land and My People (autobiographical) and Freedom in Exile. Biographies: Great Ocean by Roger Hicks and Ngakpa Chogyam and The Last Dalai Lama, by Michael Harries Goodman.

David- Neel, Alexandra (1868-1969)
Pioneering French mystic, traveller and author. Born Saint-Mande (East Suburb of Paris). Discovered East religion and philosophy at Musee Guimet (Paris) at age 23: 'My vocation was born there and then'. Became singer with Opera Comique; later turned to journalism. 1894: married Philippe Neel (pronounce Nale) in Tunis; soon separated. In East for next 20 years. Met exiled XIIIth Dalai Lama in Darjeeling. In Sikkim met Lama Yongden, her future travelling companion and adopted son. Went into retreat in Himalayan cave-hermitage; met Tibetan teachers who taught her Tibetan language and Buddhist philosophy. Ventured 3 times into Tibet, once reaching Shigatse before being turned back. Subsequently left for Burma, Sri Lanka and Japan, accompanied by Yongden; then to Korea, China and Mongolia. Studied at Kumbum monastery (East Tibet). 1924: became the first European woman to enter Lhasa (in disguise). 1925:returned to Europe, bought house in Digne (Haute Provence). 1937: returned to Asia, travelling via Transiberian Railway to China. Japanese invasion of Manchuria forced her westwards to Tatsienlu; spent most of World War II there. Later returned to France via India; subsequently engaged in study and writing at Digne until died at age 100. 1964: Made Commander de la Legion d'Honneur. Books in English including With Mystics & Magicians, My Journey to Lhasa, Tibetan Journey, A Tibetan Tale & Magic Secret Oral Traditions of Tibetan Buddhism and Initiations and Initiates in Tibet.

Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche
Important Nyingma Master and exponent of Dzogchen Meditation. (1910-91), from Kham, East Tibet. Recognized as mind incarnation of Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo (1820-92). Studied under many distinguished lamas for all four schools, notably Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro, and spent 20 years in retreat. A Terton, has also written many meditation texts and commentaries notable for their poetic beauty. Travels extensively giving teachings in Bhutan, Nepal, India and the West. 1976: to USA on invitation of Trungpa Rinpoche, his pupil. 1983: to London at invitation of Sogyal Rinpoche. Has also visited France, where he supervises students undergoing long retreat. Has transmitted teachings to Dalai Lama. Is rebuilding Shechen Monastic University (formerly one of the great Nyingma centres in Tibet) at Bodh Nath, Nepal.

Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche (Jamyang Thubten Chokui Gyatso)
Nyingma tulku: incarnation of Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro: Born 1960; recognized by Dalai Lama. Received training in all lineages of Tibetan Buddhism under over 12 great masters, including Dalai Lama, Karmapa, Sakya Trizin, Dudjom Rinpoche and Dingo Khyentse Rinpoche. 1986: 1st visit to Europe and USA. Has thriving centre in Australia.

Evans-Wentz, Dr Walter Yeeling (1878-1965)
Pioneer translator of Tibetan Buddhist texts. Born USA, educated University of Stanford, Oxford and Rennes, specializing in folk-lore; met W.B. Yeats. 1911: 1st book: Fairy Faith in Celtic Countries. An interest in the rebirth doctrine took him to East. 1919: met Kazi Dawa-Samdup in Sikkim; collaborated on translations of several texts, including The Tibetan Book of the Dead, The Tibetan Book of the Great Liberation, Tibetan Yoga and Secret Doctrines and Tibet's Great Yogi Milarepa. Died near Encinitas, California at age 88 years. Biography: Pilgrim of the Clear Light, by Ken Winkler.
Govinda, Lama Anagarika (Anagarika Khamsum-Wangchuk; E.L. Hoffmann; 1898-1985)
Pioneer Western exponent and expositor of Tibetan Buddhism. Born Waldheim (old kingdom of Saxony) of German father and Bolivian mother (family had mining interests in Bolivia). Invalided out of World War I. Studied Philosophy and Architecture at University of Freiburg, later Archaeology; research in Mediterranean area and North Africa. 1928: to Sri Lanka. 1929: Anagarika ordination in Burma. 1929-31: studied Pali. 1931: decisive turning point - encountered Tibetan Buddhism in Darjeeling and met main guru, Tomo Geshe Rinpoche. When Tomo Geshe Rinpoche died, founded Arya Maitreya Mandala in his memory. 1930s: pursued Buddhist Studies in Sikkim, Ladakah and Tibet; also taught, lectured and practised art (was gifted artist). During World War II: interned. 1947: married British-educated Parsi photographer Li Gotami; took Indian nationality. 1947-9: travelled to Central Provinces and West Tibet; visited Mount Kailas and Gu-ge, as described in his Way of the White Clouds. Subsequently devoted himself to magnum opus: The Foundations of Tibetan Mysticism. As his reputation grew, travelled and lectured in USA, Japan and Europe. Latterly based at Kasar Devi Ashram, near Almora (North India). 1980-1: went to USA for medical treatment; lived until death in Mill Valley. Other books including The Psychological Attitude of Early Buddhist Philosophy, Creative Meditation and Multidimensional Consciousness, the Psycho-Cosmic Symbolism of the Buddhist Stupa and The Inner Structure of the I-Ching.

Kalu Rinpoche (Karma Rangjung Kunkyab) (1905-1989)
'A modern Milaerpa', Hor region of Kham, East Tibet. Both parents students of Jangon Kongtruil Lodro Thaye, Jamyang Khyentse Wangpo and Mipham Rinpoche (all prominent in Ri-me movement). Recognized as tulku but not ordained, instead wandered freely; education supervised by father. At 13 years began formal studies at Palpung monastery. Received getsul ordination from 11th Tai Situpa (Karma Rangjung Kunchap). At Palpung and elsewhere studied sutra and tantra teachings; received instruction and empowerments from many great lamas. At age 16 undertook 3 years retreat at Kunzang Dechen osel Ling under the direction of root lama, Norbu Tondrup, from whom he received complete transmission of teachings of Karma Kagyu and Shangba Kagyu traditions. At age 25 embarked on 12 years solitary retreat in mountains of Kham. At request of Tai Situpa, returned to Palpung to become Director of 3 years retreats. Recognized by 16th Gyalwa Karmapa as incarnation of Jamgon Kontrul Lodro Thaye. 1940s: toured Tibet; in Lhasa, gave teachings to Regent (Reting Rinpoche). 1955: asked to leave Tibet by Karmapa; established 2 centres in Bhutan and ordained 300 monks. Made pilgrimage to Buddhist holy places in India. 1965: established Samdrup Tarjay Ling at Sonada near Darjeeling (now his Headquarter); at once embarked on another 3 years retreat. 1971: visited France and North America; founded several centres for practice of Chenrezi Sadhana. 1974, 77/8: 2nd and 3rd US visits. Gave Kalachakra Empowerments in New York City, San Francisco and Boulder. 1976: began 3-years retreats for Westerners in France, where he had established 2 centres. 1983: gave Rinchen Ter Dzo empowerments at Sonada to the 'Four Great Heart-sons' of late Gyalwa Karmapa and others. Publications including The Writings of Kalu Rinpoche (with Kenneth McLeod), The Chariot for Travelling the Path to Freedom and The Dharma that Illuminates all Beings like the Light of the Sun and Moon.

Karma Thinley Rinpoche
Sakyapa lama active in the West. Born 1931, Nangchen, Kham, East Tibet. Recognized as incarnation of Beru Kunrik at age 2 ½ years. Teachers: Khen Rinpoche, Tashi Chopel, Tenpai Nyingpo and Chogay Trichen Rinpoche. Special initiations: Hevarjra, Vajarayogini Vajapani and Chakrasamvara. Has made a special study of basic Sakya text known as lam-dre ('The Path and its Fruit'). Specialization: tshogs-shay transmission of Sakya Lam-dre teachings and Kagyu Mahamudra teachings. Hold Khenpo degree. 1959: left Tibet. 1973: founded Kampo Gangra Drubgyud Ling in Toronto, Canada. 1977: inspired establishment of Sakya Rinchen Ling in Bristrol (UK). Books including A History of the Sixteen Karmapas of Tibet.

Marpa (1012-1096)
This Tibetan layman is thought to have imported songs and text from Bengal to Tibet, particularly those belonging to the Mahamudra doctrine. He is mainly venerated for having translated many Indian text into Tibetan and as the master (guru) of Milarepa. He was himself a disciple of Naropa and Maitripa, and is considered to be the founder of the Bka-rgyud-pa sect.

Milarepa (1040–1143)
Saint and poet of Tibetan Buddhism. He was the second patriarch of the Kargyupa sect, the first being Milarepa's guru Marpa (1012–97), who studied under Naropa, the Bengali master of Tantra, at Nalanda. Milarepa's autobiography recounts how in his youth he practiced black magic in order to take revenge on relatives who deprived his mother of the family inheritance. He later repented and sought Buddhist teaching. After undergoing many tests and ordeals under Marpa, he received initiation from him. He spent the rest of his life meditating in mountain caves and teaching his disciples.

Namkhai Norbu Rinpoche
Dzogchen master and scholar. Born 1938, Derge dist, East Tibet. At 2 years, recognized as reincarnation of Adjom Drukpa, a great Dzogchen master of early 20th Century. Later also recognized by the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa and Situ Rinpoche as mind reincarnation of Shabdung Ngawang Namgyal, founder of line of Dharma Rajas (monk-kings) of Bhutan. Received initiations from two uncles, both Dzogchen masters, and from others. Age 5 -9, educated at Dereg Gonchen monastery, and later went on to Dzongsar monastic college for c 6 years. At 14 received Vajrayogini initiations according to the Sakya school and later received transmissions from 113 years old woman teacher. At 16 went to China as representative of Tibetan youth; became instructor at SW U of Minor Nationalities, Chengdu (Szechuan, China). Back in Tibet, at 17 met Root Master, Chanchub Dorje (1826 -1978). Afterwards went on long pilgrimage to Central Tibet, Nepal, India and Bhutan. Returning to Tibet, forced to flee the country due to violent political upheavals. 1958-60 lived in Gangtok, Sikkim; employed as author and editor of Tibetan text books by government. 1960: invited to Italy by G. Tucci. 1960-64: research associate at IsMEO, Rome. 1965: Professor in Oriental Institute of University of Naples. 1983: hosted 1st International Convention on Tibetan Medicine in Venice. For past 10 years has been active informally teaching in various countries, including Italy, France, UK, Austria, Denmark, Norway and, since 1979, USA. The Dzogchen Community, an informal association of students practising under his guidance, has arisen. Speaks English though prefers Italian. Married with two children. Books including: The Crystal & The Way of Light, The Necklace of Gzi (A Cultural History of Tibet), Dzog.chen and Zen, The Cycle of Day and Night, The Mirror (Advice on Presence and Awareness), On Birth and Life (A Treatise on Tibetan Medicine), Primordial Experience (Manjushrimitra's Treatise on the Meaning of Bodhicitta in Dozgchen) and Zer-Nga: The Five Principal Points (A Dzogchen Upadesha Practice).

Padmasambhava (8th Century)
Tantric Saint, instrumental in introducing Buddhism to Tibet. He is regarded by the Nyingma-pa Order as their founder. The Tibetan King Trisong Detsen (740-98) had invited the scholar Shantarakshita to Tibet, where he disseminated Buddhism and inspired the founding of the first Buddhist monastery at Samye. The king then invited Padmasambhava to exorcise the local demons and gods who resisted the teachings (Dharma). He did so, making them protectors of the Dharma, a story which illustrates how Buddhism incorporated local Tibetan traditions.

Panchen Lama
The Panchen Lama ranks second only to the Dalai Lama among the Grand Lamas of the Gelugpa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. His seat is in the Tashilhumpo monastery at Shigatse. In 1640 the 5th Dalai Lama, having with the aid of the Mongols acquired temporal as well as spiritual control of the whole country, honored his own tutor with the title of Panchen (from Pandita, learned) Lama, and built the Tashilhumpo monastery for him. On the death of the title holder, the new Lama is found in the body of a small child, as in the case of the Dalai Lama, and no new Lama is recognized as such by the people until approved by a Tibetan commission appointed for this purpose.

Rabten, Geshe (1920-86)
Gelugpa lama with many Western students. Born Kham (East Tibet) into farming family. At age 18 entered Sera Monastery (Je College); teacher was Geshe Jhampa Khedup. Became adept at rigorous philosophical debate; also went into frequent meditation retreat. Suffered poverty and undernourishment until appointed tutor to Gonsar Tulku. 1959: fled Tibet, settled first at Buxaduar; instrumental in setting up courses of study. 1963: awarded geshe Lharampa; shortly afterwards moved to Dharamsala to become personal assistant to Dalai Lama; lived in Namgyal Monastery and began to instruct Westerners. C 1970: into retreat near Dharamsala to contemplate meaning of sunyata. 1974: invited to Europe. 1975: returned to Switzerland as Abbot of Tibetan Monastic Institute at Rikon. 1977: founded Tharpa Choeling Centre for Higher Tibetan Studies at Mont Pelerin, near Lausanne; also taught in USA and other European countries; established centres in Germany, Italy, Austria. ' He adhered strictly to the Vinaya and placed great emphasis on a systematic and gradual training in the Gelugpa tradition …' (Stephen Batchelor). Books including The Preliminary Practises, Advice from a Spiritual Friend (with Geshe Dhargyey), The Life & Teaching of Geshe Rabten, Echoes of Voidness and The Essential Nectar.
Sakya Trizin, HH
41st Patriarch of Sakya order. A married lama, considered an incarnation of Manjushri and Padmasambhava. Born 1945, Tsedong, South Tibet. 1953: enthroned. Teachers; Ngawang Lodro Shenpen Nyingpo, Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro, Chogay Trichen and Khenpo Appey. Special initiations: Hevajra, Chakrasamvara, Vajrayogini and Vajrakilaya. Studies of special texts: Lam-dre ('The Path and Its Fruit'). Specializations: Tsog-shay and Lobshay
transmissions of the Sakya Lam-dre teachings and the Khon lineage Vajrakilaya meditation and rituals. 1959: escaped to Sikkim. Began to learn English; went to Darjeeling to continue religious studies (Madhyamika, Prajnaparamita and Abhidharma philosophy, logic, etc.). Spent one year in Mussorrie recovering from TB. 1964: founded Sakya centre in Mussoorie. Has also since founded Sakya centres at Rajpur and Puruwala, and is head of all Sakya centres throughout the world. 1967: gave Lam-dre teaching for 1st time to c 400 monks and 100 lay people. Now fluent in English, had taught in Europe, including UK.

Shantideva
Representative of the Madhyamika school of Mahayana Buddhism. Shantideva was a king's son from South India. He flourished in the 7th to 8th centuries and was a monk at the monastic university Nalanda.He was the author of two surviving works, the Collection of Rules and Entering the Path of Enlightenment. The latter is still used in Tibetan Buddhism as a teaching text.

Sogyal Rinpoche, Lama
Incarnate lama of Ri-me tradition based in London. Born mid-1940s, Kham, East Tibet; recognized as tulku of famous lama and mystic, Terton Sogyal; also of Do Khyentse, great Dzogchen master. Raised as a son by Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro (quod vide (see reference elsewhere)) at Dzongsar Monastic University (East Tibet); received complete training in sutras and tantras with transmissions and empowerments of all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism (especially Nyingma) from Khyentse and other great masters. Mid-1950s: with Khyentse on long pilgrimage to Central Tibet; visited inter alia Lhasa, Samye and Sakya. 1958: accompanied Khyentse to Sikkim; later attended school in India; continued to receive spiritual teachings from Dingo Khyentse Rinpoche and Dudjom Rinpoche. Then undertook BA students in Philosophy at St Stephen's College, Delhi University; from there won scholarship to Trinity College, Cambridge. 1973: accompanied Dalai Lama on 1st European tour; also accompanied Dudjom Rinpoche on US tour as translator and aide. 1974: began to teach in London. 1975: established Dzogchen Orgyen Choling in London. 1976-7: began to teach in Paris, later in USA. 1981: founded Rigpa Fellowships in London. Currently directs Rigpa centres in London, Paris and Santa Cruz (California, USA). Teaches widely with special emphasis on Dzogchen. Has made death and dying a specialty, working with hospices and near death researchers.

Tarthang Tulku
Nyingma Lama active in USA. Born 1935, Golok, East Tibet. Left home at 17 to travel in Kham; studied with many famous teachers of all schools but mainly Nyingma. 1958: left Tibet for Bhutan and India; later to Sikkim to study with root guru Jamyang Khyentse Chokyi Lodro. C 1962: appointed to represent Nyingma tradition at Sanskit University, Varanasi; founded Dharma Publishings.1968: to USA; established Tibetan Nyingma Meditation Centre (Berkeley, Cal), Nyingma Institute and Odiyan Retreat Centre. Married to French - Egyptian lady. Books including Gesture of Balance, Openness Mind, Hidden Mind of Freedom, Skillful Means, Kum Nye Relaxation I and II, Sacred Art of Tibet; Time, Space and Knowledge; Knowledge of Freedom, Love of Knowledge and Copper Mountain Mandala. Translations including Calm and Clear, Mother of Knowledge. General Edition of Crystal Mirror series, Ancient Tibet, and of new Nyingma Edition of Kangyur and Tangyur.

Trungpa Rinpoche, Vidyadhara Chogyam (Karma Ngawang Chokyi Gyatso Kunga Zanpo; 1939-87)
One of the first lamas to come to the West; meditation masters of the Kagyu and Nyingma lineages and writer. Born Geje, East Tibet. Recognized and enthroned as 11th Trungpa Tulku by Gyalwa Karmapa at 1 ½ years. Became Abbot of Surmang monasteries. Took sramanera precepts at 8 years; also went into 3- month retreat ( to meditate on Manjushri). At 9 met principal guru, Jamgon Kongtrul II of Sechen. At 11 years, began ngondro ( preliminary practices for Vajrayana teachings). At 14, conducted 1st full empowerment (wangkur), which lasted 3 months. Later left Tibet for India. Became protégé of Freda Bedi. 1963: came to West as Spalding Fellow at Oxford University; studied Western philosophy, psychology, art and comparative religion. 1967: co-founder with Chuje Akong Rinpoche of Samye-Ling Tibetan Centre in Scotland, the 1st Tibetan Buddhist meditation centre in West. Late 1960s: married Diana Judith Pybus (Lady Diana Mukpo); several children born. 1970: left for USA; established important centres in Vermont (Tail of Tiger), Colorado (Karma Dzong in Boulder and Rocky Mountain Dharma Centre) and Nova Scotia (Gampo Abbey). Numerous other centres (Dharmadhatus) in USA, Europe, etc. Headed Vajradhatu, a world-wide organization. Died Halifax. Nova Scotia. Books including Meditation in Action, Cutting Through Spiritual Materialism, The Myth of Freedom, Mudra, Shambhala - The Sacred Path of the Warrior and Journey Without Goal. Autobiography: Born in Tibet (with Esme Cramer Roberts).

Tsong-khapa (1355-1417)
Tibetan Buddhist reformer and founder of Dge-lugs-pa (or Gelugpa, or 'Yellow Hat') Order. One of the greatest names of Tibetan history, he was born on the site of the present Kum-bum monastery and at an early age dedicated his life to the complete reform of Tibetan Buddhism. He founded the Ganden monastery 26 miles from Lhasa and the the new Order the Gelugpa, 'the virtuous ones'. To this day the senior members wear on important occasions a yellow headdress. Both the Dalai Lama and the Panchen Lama are members of this Order.

Yeshe, Lama Thubten (1935-84)
Gelugpa Lama and influential teachers of Westerners. Born near Lhasa; educated Sera Monastery (Je College). 1959: to India; settled at Buxaduar. Began teachings Westerners with principle disciple, Zopa Rinpoche, in Darjeeling and later Kathmandu. 1971: helped found Kopan Monastery at Bodh Nath in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. In subsequent years he and his students established over 65 centres under auspices of FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition). Also instrumental in establishing Wisdom Publications, The Universal Education Association, a couple of monasteries for Western monks and nuns as well as supporting leper colony in India, etc. Toured and lectured annually in North America, Asia, Australia and Europe. Books including Wisdom Energy (with Lama Zopa).
Yeshe, Lama (new incarnation: Lama Osel)
born 1985, Granada, Spain, 5th child of Maria Torres and Paco Hita, students of late Lama Yeshe who helped found Osel Ling, retreat centre near Granada. First met by Lama Zopa at age 6 months; confirmed by Dalai Lama, 1986.
Zopa Rinpoche, Lama
Gelug lama; teachers of Westerners. Born 1946 of Sherpa stock at Thami, Northeast Nepal, near Everest. At age 5 recognized at tulku of Lawudo Lama, great Nyingma practitioner, educated Solu Khumbu region (Nepal). Taken on pilgrimage to Tibet by uncle while still young and decided to remain. Studied first at Dungkar monastery, later at Sera (Je College). 1959: to India; live in refugee camp at Buxaduar; there met Lama Thubten Yeshe, his guru. Remained several years studying under various Tibetan masters. 1965: he and Lama Yeshe met their first Westerner student ( Zina Rachevsky). 1969: with Lama Thubten Yeshe and Zopa Rinpoche, founded small centre at Kopan in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal; taught intensively there in following years. 1971; helped found FPMT (Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition) with Lama Yeshe. 1974: made 1st visit to West., visiting USA and Australia. Co-author with Lama Thubten Yeshe of Wisdom Energy.

Profiles of Mahayana Buddhists

Asanga (310-390)
Founder of the Yogacara (or Mind-Only) school of Buddhism. Born of a Brahmin family in North India sometime in the fourth century A.D. He was converted to the Mahisasaka (one of the 20) early schools of Buddhism and became a monk in that tradition. Apparently he received teaching, through a vision, directly from the future Buddha Maitreya who provided him with a series of texts. Quickly converting to Mahayana as a result of this interaction, Asanga began composing text in his own name, founded the Yogacara school of Buddhism and converted his brother Vasubandhu.
Asvaghosa
Asvaghosa is one of the four great Indian Buddhist sages who are called the 'four suns that illuminate the world'. Buddhist poet best known for his famous epic poem called the Buddha-Carita which represents the first complete biography of the Buddha. Information concerning his life is conflicting but it appears that Asvaghosa was a contemporary of King Kaniska (second century C.E.).
Austin, Rev Jack (1917-93)
Pioneer of Shin Buddhism in UK, born Caerleon, Gwent (South Wales, UK). With Richard Robinson, founded Dharma Study Group for studying Mahayana sutras.1946-52: a member of 1st ad hoc council of Buddhist Society. 1952: with Richard Robinson, ordained by Ven Sumangalo in London. 1953: launched Western Buddhist to promote Mahayana Buddhism. 1954: initiated into Arya Maitreya Mandala (founded by Lama Govinda in Das Budhhistische Haus, West Berlin. 1966: initiated into Soto Zen by Chisan Koho Zenji in London. With others founded the Hannyakai to practise zazen under proper tuition for the first time in the UK, inviting Sochu Suzuki Roshi from Japan (later London Zen Society). Served as Buddhist representative on various committees. 1975: Development Officer of World Congress of Faiths, organizing conferences and interfaith activities; served on several related committees, including Buddhist Religious Adviser, especially in education. Contributed to numerous Buddhist and related publications, including new edition of Dhammapada for the Buddhist Society. 1976: co-founder of Shin Buddhist Association in London (Patron: Chief Abbot Kosho Ohtani). 1977: ordained a Hongwan-ji priest in Kyoto. Has also visited Shin temples in Hawaii, San Francisco and New York.

Fa-Hsien
A Chinese monk of the Eastern dynasty (4th-5th Century). In 399 he left China for India, finally arriving there after six years of hard travel. After studying Sanskrit and obtaining many Sanskrit texts of the Tripitaka (Buddhist canon), he returned to China by sea in 414. After his return he not only translated these texts but also wrote a record of his travels. He died when either eighty-two or eighty-six years old.

Fujii, Most Venerable Nichidatsu (1884-1985)
Founder and preceptor of the Nipponzan Myohoji order. 1903: became a monk. 1918: began to preach Buddhism publicly, travelled widely through China, Korea. Manchuria and Japan. Warned of the growing militarism in Japan. Disciples joined him in the practice of beating the hand-drum and chanting of the prayer for peace (Namu myoho renge kyo). 1924: first Nipponzan Myohoji formed at Tagonoura, near Mt Fujii. 1931-33: travelled in India to regenerate Buddhism there; met Gandhi. Throughout World War II, prayed and regularly fasted for early peace. After War, began promoting construction of peace pagodas in Japan and later elsewhere. In UK, pagodas built at Milton Keynes and Battersea Park (London). Books including Buddhism for World Peace, Beating Celestial Drums, Ichienbudai, The Time Has Cone, etc.

Harsha-vardhana (606-647)
The ruler of a large empire in northern India. He was a Buddhist convert in a Hindu era. Harsa was crowned at age 16 after the assassination of his elder brother, Rajyavardhana, and an encouraging "communication" with a statue of the Buddhist Avalokitesvara bodhisattva. Harsa is known mainly through the Chinese pilgrim Hsüan-tsang, who became a personal friend of the king and depicts the emperor as a convinced Mahayana Buddhist, though in the earlier part of his reign Harsa appears to have supported orthodox Hinduism. He is described as a model ruler — benevolent, energetic, and just, and active in the administration and prosperity of his empire. In 641 he sent an envoy to the Chinese emperor and established the first diplomatic relations between India and China. He established benevolent institutions for the benefit of travellers, the poor, and the sick throughout his empire. A patron of men of learning, Harsa sponsored the chronicler Bana and Mayura, a lyric poet. Himself a poet, Harsa composed three Sanskrit works: Nagananda, Ratnavali, and Priyadarsika.

Hönen (1133-1212)
Honen, also called Genku, established in 1175 the Jodo or 'Pure Land' school in Japan. He is said to have reached an awakening in 1175 on reading Shan-tao's Meditation Sutra, and thereafter dedicated himself solely to the chanting of the name of Amida Buddha's name. The founding of the Jodo school is dated from this event. His fundamental tenet was belief in the power and grace of Amitabha, lord of Sukhavati (the Western paradise). He advocated repeated invocation of Amitabha's name, by which anyone, ignorant or wise, high or low, could be saved. His teaching was based on that of master Hui Yuan, the Chinese founder of the Pure Land school.

Hsuan-Tsang (602-664)
Buddhist monk and Chinese pilgrim to India who translated the sacred scriptures of Buddhism from Sanskrit into Chinese and founded in China the "Consciousness Only" school (Yogacara). His fame rests mainly on the volume and diversity of his translations of the Buddhist sutras and on the record of his travels in Central Asia and India, which, with its wealth of detailed and precise data, has been of inestimable value to historians and archaeologists.

Ikeda, Daisaku
Current (3rd) President of Soka Gakkai (Nichiren Shoshu). Born 1928, Ormori, Tokyo, 5th son of edible seaweed farmer, Childhood dogged by poverty and ill-health. 1940: left school at age 12; persevered to read in spare time - and later to write.c. 1947: introduced to SG' and knew instantly that this was a way of life he must follow.' Greatly influenced by Josei Toda, 2nd President of SG, his 'master in life'. 1960:on Toda's death, became 3rd President of SG. Set out to raise membership to 3 million, to erect a large reception hall at Head Temple and 'to arouse an awakening in religious circles'. 1962:1st goal realized. 1964:2nd goal realized.3rd is 'forever in his heart and actions'. 1975: Soka Gakkai International formed; began international activities, holding dialogues with eminent world leaders and leading intellectuals, arranging cultural exchanges, etc. 1972: Sho Honda, Grand Main Temple, opened at Head Temple (Taiseki-ji).1983: presented with UN Peace Award by N Sec Gen Perez de Cuellar. Books including The Living Buddha, My Recollections, Dialogue on Life (A Buddhist Perspective on Life and The Universe); Life an Enigma, a Precious Jewel; A Lasting Peace; Buddhism: the First Millennium; Choose Life (with Arnold Toynbee), The Human Revolution (5 vols), etc.

Inagaki, Rev Prof Hisai
Executive Secretary of International Association of Shin Buddhist Studies (founded 1984). Currently Professor of English at Ryukoku University. 1970s. lectured at SOAS (London University); the (British) Pure Land Buddhist Fellowship initiated in his house at that time. Editor of The Pure Land. Member of the English and Portuguese Translation Centres at Hongwanji International Centre. Editor of Ryokoku Translation series. Publications include A Dictionary of Japanese Buddhist Terms; A Glossary of the Sukhavativyuha Sutras, The Three Pure Land Sutras, The Amida Sutra Mandala, The Way of Nembutsu Faith.

Kumarajiva (344–413)
Buddhist scholar and missionary. In 383, From 401 he was at the Ch'in court in the capital Chang'an (the modern Xi'an), where he taught and translated Buddhist scriptures into Chinese. More than 100 translations are attributed to him. Of these only about 24 can be authenticated, but they include some of the most important titles in the Chinese Buddhist canon. Kumarajiva's career had an epoch-making influence on Chinese Buddhist thought, not only because he made available important texts that were previously unknown, but also because he did much to clarify Buddhist terminology and philosophical concepts. He and his disciples established the Chinese branch of the Madhyamika, known as the San-lun, or “Three Treatises” school.

Makiguchi Tsunesaburo (1871-1944)
Founder and first President of Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (forerunner of Soka Gakkai). Born Niigata perfecture, Northwest Japan. At 14, went to Hokkaido; educated Sapporo Normal School (now Hokkaido University of Education). Later served as teacher and principal of several elementary schools in Sapporo and Tokyo. Formed small organized of educators. 1928: converted to Nichiren Shoshu. 1930: established Soka Kyoiku Gakkai (lit 'Value-creating Education Society'); worked to spread knowledge of Nichiren's teachings. 1943: arrested together with other leaders for opposing Shintoism and criticizing war effort. Died in prison at age 73. Publications including Soka Kyoikugau Taikei (The System of Value-Creating Pedagogy) and Kyodaka Kenkyu (Research Studies in Folk Culture of Local Communities).

Nargarjuna (2nd-3rd Century)
One of the most important philosophers of Buddhism and founder of the Madhyamika (Middle Way) school. Nargajuna's major accomplishment was his systemisation of the teaching presented in the Prajnaparamita Sutras. He is revered in all of the Mahayana as a great religious figure, in many places as a Bodhisattva. Not only Zen, but also the Tantric branch of Buddhism and the devotional communities of Amitabha Buddha, count Nagarjuna among their patriarchs.

Nichiren (1222-1282)
Nichiren Shonin, the founder of the Nichiren Sect in Japan. At age eleven, his parents sent him to Seichoji-Temple to study. From an early age, he began to wonder why there were so many schools of Buddhism, while the Buddhism expounded by Sakyamuni Buddha was but one? He was ordained a priest at Seichoji Temple at the young age of fifteen. After considerable study of the Buddhist schools, Nichiren Shonin concluded that the Lotus Sutra indeed represented the perfect culmination of the true teaching of the Buddha.

Niwano, Rev Nikkyo
Founder of Rissho Kosei-Kai. Born 1906. Tokamachi, Niigata perfecture, Japan, of farming stock; named Shikazo. Saw military service in Japanese Navy. No higher education. 1923: went to Tokyo; apprenticed to shopkeeper; studied religion, divination, Chinese classics, etc. Daughter's sickness led him to join Reiyukai. 1934: set up milk shop in order to meet people. 1938: seceded from Reiyukai, not because of doctrinal differences, but due to growing awareness of his own powers of leadership and consequent desire for independence; with Mrs M. Naganuma, established Dai Nippon Rissho Kosei-Kai; became its 1st President. Membership has since grown to 5 million with branches throughout Japan and overseas. Practices including Hoza (Circle of Compassion) and the discipline of Veneration. 1979: won Templeton Prize. Books including Buddhism for Today.

Pieper, Rev Harry (1902-78)
Seminal leader of German Shin Movement. Born Berlin; attended Das Buddhistische Haus. 1946: formed a Mahayana group. 1951: joined Arya Maitreya Mandala; received ordination and became Secretary. Met Pro Osamu Yamada and invited him to lecture on Shin Buddhism. 1954: on visit of Kosho Ohtani, received initiation in Nishi Hongwan-ji lineage; resigned from AMM. 1956: founded 1st Pure Land Association in Europe (Buddhistische Gemeinschaft Jodo-Shin). 1962: founded 1st Buddhist prison chaplaincy in German-speaking world. Translated many US and Japanese books on Shin Buddhism.

Shantideva
Representative of the Madhyamika school of Mahayana Buddhism. Shantideva was a king's son from South India. He flourished in the 7th to 8th centuries and was a monk at the monastic university Nalanda.He was the author of two surviving works, the Collection of Rules and Entering the Path of Enlightenment. The latter is still used in Tibetan Buddhism as a teaching text.

Shinran (1173-1263)
Founder of the True Pure Land School of Japanese Buddhism. A disciple of Honen (Jodo School), he carried the doctrine of salvation by faith in Amitabha Buddha to the extreme one of recitation of Amitabha's name being sufficent if done with a pure heart. He advocated marriage of priests, and was himself married. He popularized congregational worship. Except in Japan and to a certain extent Korea, Shinran's reforms (salvation by faith alone, marriage of priests, meat-eating, etc.) are not accepted by the Buddhist traditions of East Asia.

Sumangalo, Ven (Robert Stuart Clifton, 1903-63)
Pioneering Western Shin Priest in USA. Born Birmingham, Alabama, USA as Harold Amos Eugene Newman. Travelled in East. First Westerner to be ordained a priest of Nishi Hongwan-ji by Ven Kosho Ohtani. Returned to USA; performed priestly function while working as probation officer, etc. 1951: founded Western Buddhist Order, ' an organization dedicated to interpreting the Dharma to the West and to establishing groups where none existed' (The Western Buddhist). Later moved to Malaya and worked vigorously for Buddhism there until his death.

T'ai-Hsu (1889-1947)
Famous modern Chinese Buddhist monk. Organised revival of Buddhism in China between the World Wars. Founded Chinese Buddhist Association and the journal Hai Cha'o (the Voice of the Tide). Travelled in Europe 1928-9 where he founded Les Amis du Bouddhisme in Paris. Worked hard to improve relations between Buddhists of the East and West. His main doctrinal theme focused on promoting a synthesis of various Chinese Buddhist schools in a harmonious fashion.

Tsuji, Kenryu Takashi
Minister, Buddhist Churches of America. Born 1919, Mission City, BC, Canada. 1946: married Sakaye Kawabata; 5 children. 1937: University of BC, Canada. 1942: University of Toronto. 1948: Ryukoku University, Kyoto. 1958: ordained minister, Jodo Shinshu, Buddhist Churches of America. 1968: Bishop, Buddhist Churches of America. 1941-2: minister, Vancouver Buddhist Church. 1942-5: Slocan Buddhist Church. 1945-58: Toronto Buddhist Church. 1958-68: National Director of Buddhist Education, BCA.1968-81: Bishop, BCA; President of Institute of Buddhist Studies. 1981-: Eko-ji Buddhist Temple. Editor, Program of Studies of Buddhist Sunday Schools. 1960: Publications including Three Lectures on Tannisho. Has made documentary films, including In The Footsteps of Shinran, The Story of Hongwan-ji, A Buddhist Pilgrimage, and Sri Lanka, Where the Dharma is Preserved.

Vasubandhu (420-500)
Famous Indian philosopher and writer. With his brother Asanga founded the Yogacara School of Mahayana Buddhism. His early work, the Abhidharma-Kosa, is one of the fullest expositions of the Abhidamma teachings of the Theravada School. Later on, being converted to the Mahayana point of view by his brother, he wrote the Vijnaptiimatra Shastra, expounding the Mahayana doctrine of Mind-only.

Yamaoka, Seigen Haruo
Former Bishop, Buddhist Churches of America (1981); President, Institute of Buddhist Studies. Born 1934, Fresno, California. 1966: married Shigeko Masuyama; 2 children. 1956: BA from California State University, Fresno. 1961: MA from Ryukoku University, Kyoto. 1969: MRE, and 1979, PhD (Ministry in Religious Education) from Pacific School of Religion, Berkeley, Cal. 1964: ordained, Buddhist Churches of America: Research Committee, BCA. Minister, Buddhist Church of Oakland. 1971-81: Stockton Buddhist Temple. 1969-71: Registrar, Institute of Buddhist Studies, Berkeley, Cal. 1970-5: member, Research Committee, BCA.1971-5 and 1979-81: member, IBS Board of Trustees, 1972-5: English Secretary, Ministers Association. 1977: member, Board of Buddhist Education. 1979-81: Chairman, Ministers Association. Publications including Compassion in Encounter, Teaching and Practice of Jodo Shinshu, Jodo Shinshu - Religion of Human Experience, Meditation - Gut Enlightenment. The Way of Hara and Six Aspects of Jodo Shinshu. Office: San Francisco.

Profiles of Theravada Buddhists

Anada Metteyya (Charles Henry Allan Bennett, 1872 -1923)
First British bhikkhu (monk) and Buddhist missionary, born London, son of electrical engineer. Trained as analytical chemist. Involved in Golden Dawn (magic) movement, with W.B. Yeats et al. 1890: Arnold's Light of Asia kindled an interest in Buddhism. 1898: "Ill-health drove me from England to the East." Initially studied Dhamma in Sri Lanka and determined to lead Buddhist mission to Europe. 1901: samanera ordination in Akyab (Burma), 1902: bhikkhu ordination. 1903: founded International Buddhist Society (Buddhasasana Samagama) in Rangoon. 1908: led 1st Mission to England; returned to Burma after 6 months. 1914: ill-health compelled him to disrobe and return to United Kingdom; continued Buddhist propaganda work, which he attempted to finance by his inventions. Books include An Outline of Buddhism and The Wisdom of the Aryas.

Ba Khin, Sayaji U Ba Khin (1899-1971)
Lay Burmese meditation master. 1937: began practising vipassana under Saya Thet Gyi. Mastered several types of concentration meditation and developed powerful vipassana technique. 'This …involves sweeping the mind through the body, giving special attention to the ever-changing play of sensations…" (Jack Kornfield). 1941: began teaching individuals and small groups; at the same time held down various important posts in lay life, having entered Accountant General's office and achieved promotion. 1948-1953: Accountant General of Burma; offered vipassana instruction to staff. 1952: founded and taught at International Meditation Centre, Rangoo, where intensive 10-day courses given on regular basis. After retirement (1953), was active as a meditation teacher, developed his centre and was also acting head of several governments department. Married young and raised 6 children. His style, which emphasizes intensive practice rather than theoretical understanding, is taught elsewhere in the world by his disciples, examples, S.N. Goenka, Ruth Dennison, Robert Hover. For further information see, "Tranquillity and Insight" (1986). A. Sole-Leris, London: Rider, page. 136-41.
Buddhadasa, Bhikkhu (1926-1993)
Buddhadasa ordained as a bhikkhu (Buddhist monk) in 1926, at twenty. After a few years of study in Bangkok, which convinced him "purity is not to be found in the big city," he was inspired to live close with nature in order to investigate the Buddha-Dhamma. Thus, he established Suan Mokkhabalarama (The Grove of the Power of Liberation) in 1932, in Chaiya District. At that time, it was the only forest Dhamma Center and one of the few places dedicated to vipassana meditation in Southern Thailand. Word of Buddhadasa, his work, and Suan Mokkh spread over the years so that they are easily described as "one of the most influential events of Buddhist history in Thailand." He studied all schools of Buddhism, as well as the other major religious traditions. This interest was practical rather than scholarly. He sought to unite all genuinely religious people in order to work together to help, as he put it, "drag humanity out from under the power of materialism." This broadmindedness won him friends and students from around the world, including Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs.

Buddharakkhita, Bhikkhu
Founder of numerous social welfare organizations. Born 1922, Imphal, Manipur State, India, educated Institute of Engineering Technology, Calcutta. World War II: service as Officer. 1946-48: Ramakrishna monk. 1949: bhikkhu ordination.1949-52: Buddhist studies in Sri Lanka. 1952-55: Buddhist studies in Burma under Mahasi Sayadaw. Editorial board, Tipitaka Translation, 6th Buddhist Synod, Burma. 1955-6: taught at Nalanda Postgraduate Institute. 1956: founded Maha Bodhi Society, Bangalore. Later founded: International Meditation Centre, school for indigent Buddhist boys, Buddha Vachana Publishers and Tripitaka Press, Maitri Mandala, Mahabodhi Burns & Casualty Centre (Bangalore), Institute of Buddhology & Pali Studies (Mysore), Artificial Limb Centre (Bangalore), Arogya Centre, etc. 1980: has taught and conducted retreats in UK and USA. Publications including over 50 books.

Bodhi, Bhikkhu (Thera), (Jeffrey Block)
American-born bhikkbu, born 1944. New York City, of Jewish parentage, educated Brooklyn College. 1972: PhD in Philosophy from Claremont Graduate School. 1967: formally took Three Refuges. 1972: left for Sri Lanka, intending to enter Sangha. 1972: received samanera ordination. 1973:bhikkhu ordination. 1977: returned to United States of America and spent nearly 2 years at Lamaist Buddhist Monastery of Geshe Wangyal and 3 years at Washington Buddhist Vihara. 1982: returned to Sri Lanka. 1984: after periods of meditation training at Mitirigala Nissarana Vanaya, accepted the editorship of the Buddhist Publication Society upon the retirement of Venerable Nyanaponika Mahathera. Now lives together with Venerable Nyanaponika at the Forest Hermitage, Kandy. Publications including Nourishing the Roots; Transcendental Dependent Arising; The Noble Eightfold Path; The Discourse on the All-embracing Net of Views; The Brahmajala Sutta and its Commentarial Exegesis; The Discourse on the Root of Existence; The Mulapariyaya Sutta and its Commentarial Exegesis; The Great Discourse on Causation; The Mahanidana and its Commentarial Exegesis.

Chah, Ajahn (also spelt Cha, Chaa) - See note on name below.
Meditation master of the Thai forest tradition. Born in rural village in Lao part of Northeast Thailand. Ordained as a novice in early youth; at 20 took bhikkhu ordination. Studied basic Dhamma, discipline and scriptures as a young monk; later practised meditation under several master of the forest tradition. Lived ascetic life for several years, wandering, sleeping in forests, caves, cremation grounds, then spent a short but enlightening period with Ajahn Mun. Eventually settled in a thick forest grove near birthplace; a large monastery grew up around him there (Wat Pah Pong) from which numerous branch temples have sprung in North East Thailand and elsewhere. 1975: Wat Pah Nanachat established as special training monastery for Westerners. 1977 and 79: visited UK. 1979: visited USA. (Note on Name: Cha was his first lay name. Original bhikkhu name - Subhatto. Was later appointed Chao Khun with new name, Bodhinyana; does not use Chao Khun title but keeps name that goes with it) Books including A Taste of Freedom, A Still Forest Pool and Bohinyana. Died in 1992.

Dharmapala, Anagarika (1865-1933)
Named used by D.H. Hewavitarne, the famous Buddhist propagandist. Born in Sri Lanka in 1865, he joined the Theosophical Society in 1884. Inspired by H.P. Blavatsky he studied Pali and in 1891 founded the Maha Bodhi Society. He then proclaimed himself as an Anagarika, a homeless wanderer, and worked hard for the main object of the Society, the restoration of Buddha Gaya into Buddhist hands, which was only achieved in 1949. In 1925 he founded the British Maha Bodhi Society in London. In 1931 he entered the Order as Sri Devamitta Dhammapala, and died in 1933.

Goenka, Satya Narayan
Vipassana meditation teacher. Born 1924, Burma. For many years a high-powered businessman with family responsibilities; also performed social good work. 1955: experimented with U Ba Khin's vipassana method hoping to gain migraine relief: was completely cured and achieved deep spiritual insight as well. For next 14 years an energetic student of U Ba Khin. 1969: returned to India; conducted own 1st vipassana course in Bombay; others followed in many parts of India; his 'camps' attended by all sort of people. 1976: Vipassana International Academy (VIA) established at Igatpuri (Maharashtra state); other centres later established at Hyderabad and Jaipur, smaller ones at Dharamsala, Barachakia and in Nepal. In West, Vipassana Meditation centre inaugurated at Shelburne Falls, Mass, USA in 1982; other centres established in Great Britain and Australia. Has lately retired from business to devote himself to teaching meditation and now holds courses every year in Europe, USA, Canada, Japan, Australia and New Zealand.

Humphreys, Christmas (1901-1983)
A prominent English Buddhist. Adopted Buddhism as a way of life in 1918. Attended Buddhist lectures by Francis Payne in 1923. On 19th November 1924 founded, with Miss Aileen Faulkner, later his wife, the Buddhist Lodge of the Theosophical Society, which in 1926 became the Buddhist Society. Publisher of the journal The Middle Way and was Vice President of the World Fellowship of Buddhists.

Janakabhivamsa, Sayadaw U
b.1928, novice age 15, fully ordained age 19, this gifted scholar became a lecturer in Buddhist scriptures at Mandalay Mahavisuddhayone University before (1954/5) becoming an editor and reciter of Pali texts for the sixth council. Studied Vipassana under Mahasi Sayadaw 1953/4. 1957 commenced six years in Sri lanka where he continued his Pali and scriptural studies and passed the London GCE A levels. !967 returned to Burma as meditation teacher at Mahasi Sasana Yeiktha. In 1979 took up residence at Chanmyay Meditation Centre, constructed for him by devotees, and is often known as Chanmyay Saydaw. 1979/80 accompanied Mahasi Sayadaw on missions to the West and has since then made over twenty missions.

Khantipalo, Phra (Lawrence Mills)
Pioneer British bhikkhu and Pali scholar. Born 1932, near London. At Suez Canal with British Army, received book on Buddhism. Later joined Buddhist Society in London; 3 years late took samanera ordination under Venerable Dr H. Saddhatissa at London Buddhist Vihara. After 1 year in the robe in UK, left for 3 years in India, studying Pali, travelling and teaching Dr Ambedkar's new Buddhists. Took bhikkhu ordination under Abbot of Wat Cakkapat, Bangkok; studied at Wat Bovoranives; also practised meditation under various distinguished teachers. After 11 years in Thailand went to Australia with senior Thai bhikkhu to set up Wat Buddharangsee in Sydney. Later moved to Sri Lanka; worked at Buddhist Publication Society (Kandy). Subsequently returned to Australia and taught at Wat Buddha-Dhamma, Wisemen's Ferry, NSW. Disrobed after 30 years in the Sangha, married a young Sinhalese woman and lives in Carins, Queensland, trying to create a Buddhist community. Books including Banner of the Arahants, A Life of the Buddha, Calm and Insight, Nanamoli, Tolerance and What is Buddhism? ; also a translation of Dhammapada and edited Nanamoli's translation of Majjhima Nikaya.

Khema, Ayya, Sister (1923 - 1997) (Ilse Ledermann)
Born in Berlin in 1923 to Jewish parents. In 1938, she escaped from Germany. 1978: She helped to establish Wat Buddha-Dhamma, a forest monastery near Sydney, Australia. 1979: Ordained as a nun in Sri Lanka by Narada Mahathera. In Colombo she set up the International Buddhist Women's Centre as a training centre for Sri Lankan nuns, and the Parappuduwa Nun's Island at Dodanduwa. She was the spiritual director of Buddha-Haus in Germany, established in 1989 under her auspices. In June 1997 "Metta Vihara",  the first Buddhist forest monastery in Germany, was inaugurated by her, and the first ordinations in the German language took place there. In 1987 she co-ordinated the first international conference of Buddhist nuns in the history of Buddhism, which resulted in the setting-up of Sakyadhita, a world-wide Buddhist women's organisation. Ayya Khema has written twenty-five book on meditation and the Buddha's teachings in English and German; her books have been translated into seven languages. In 1988, her book "Being Nobody, Going Nowhere" received  the Christmas Humphreys Memorial Award.

Mahasi Sayadaw (1904-1982)
Mahasi Sayadaw (U Sobhana Mahathera) best known for reviving Theravada Vipassana meditation. In 1949, on the invitation of the Prime Minister, U Nu, Mahasi Sayadaw taught at the Sasana Yeiktha (Meditation Centre) in Rangoon. Within a few years of the establishment of the Sasana Yeiktha, similar meditation centres were inaugurated in many parts of the country with Mahasi-trained members of the Sangha as meditation teachers. These centres were not confined to Burma alone, but extended to neighbouring Theravada countries like Thailand and Sri Lanka. At the Sixth Buddhist Council in 1954, Mahasi Sayadaw had the exacting task of Osana (Final Editor) and Pucchaka (Questioner). A unique feature of this Council was the editing of the commentaries (Atthakatha) and sub-commentaries (tikas), as well as the canonical texts.

Maha Boowa, Ajahn: (b.c. 1914)
Meditation master of the forest tradition of Northeast Thailand. Studied basic Dharma and mastered Pali before embarking upon meditation training. Spent many years practising meditation as a forest monk; received much instruction from Ajahn Mun, who sternly lectured him on the difference between bliss states (jhana) and the wisdom of Enlightenment. He emphasizes the development of strong and steady concentration in practice as a forerunner to the arising of wisdom' (Kornfield). For further information see Living Buddhist Masters, by Jack Kornfield, chapter 9.

Mun, Ajahn (Phra Mun Bhuridatta Thera, 1870-1949)
Meditation master of the Thai forest tradition. Born into Kankaew family in Ubol Rajahani, Northeast Thailand. Took samanera ordination in Khasmbong at age 15. Disrobed after 2 years for family reasons but returned to robe at age 22, taking bhikkhu ordination at Wat Liab. Afterwards trained with Phra Ajahn Sao Kantisilo of Wat Liab. 'Under his guidance the Ascetic Forest Tradition became a very important tradition in the revival of Buddhist meditation practice. The vast majority of recently deceased and presently living meditation masters in Thailand are either direct disciples of … (his) … or were substantially influenced by his Teachings' (footnote in Bodhinyana). 'One of the most renowned of the Thai-Lao forest teachers of this century, known for his mastery of concentration and insight practices, for his great powers, and for the fierceness of his teaching style' (Jack Kornfield). Biography: The Venerable Phra Achaan Mun Bhuridatta, compiled by Achaan Maha Boowa (English translated by Siri Buddhasukh).

Nanamoli, Bhikkhu (Osbert Moore, 1905-1960)
Pioneer British bhikkhu and Pali scholar educated Exeter College, Oxford. Discovered Buddhism via Julius Evola's The Doctrine of Awakening while serving in Italy during Word War II. Joined BBC after War. 1949: went to Sri Lanka and ordained samanera with friend, Harold Musson. 1950:bhikkhu ordination at Vajirarama Temple (Colombo), then translated Visuddhimagga into English as The Path of Purification; also translated Nettippakarana ('The Guide') and Patisambhidamagga ('Path of Discrimination'), most of the suttas of the Majjhima Nikaya and several from the Samyutta Nikaya; died suddenly while on pilgrimage at Majo; cremated at Vajirarama Temple. Other books including The Life of the Buddha and A Thinker's Note Book.

Nyanaponika, Mahathera (Siegmund Feniger)
Pioneer European bhikkhu. (1901-94) Hanauam-Main, West Germany of Jewish parents. Converted to Buddhism via books while living in Upper Silesia. 1922: moved to Berlin and met other German Buddhists. Later formed a Buddhist study circle in Konigsberg (East Prussia). 1936: to Sri Lanka; samanera ordination at Island Hermitage Dodanduwa. 1937: bhikkhu ordination. World War II - interned as enemy alien in Dehra Dun (North India). 1951: went to Burma with Nyanatiloka Mahathera for 6th Buddhist Council. Has served as delegate to World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) conferences at Rangoon, Bangkok and Phnom Penh; has also served as one of the Vice-Presidents of WFB, for a term. 1952 and after: resident at Forest Hermitage, Kandy. 1958-84: Founder- Editor of the Buddhist Publication Society (BPS); President till 1988. Books in English including The Heart of Buddhist Meditation and Abhidhamma Studies, and " The Vision of Dhamma".
Nyanatiloka, Mahathera (Antom Gueth, 1878 - 1957)
Pioneer European bhikkhu and notable Pali scholar. Born Wiesbaden (Germany). After high school devoted himself to music in Frankfurt and Paris, then journeyed to India via Greece, Middle East and Ceylon. 1903: samanera ordination in Rangoon; bhikkhu ordination the following year (the 1st non-British Western one). 1910-11: left Sri Lanka and travelled to Europe; stayed mainly in Switzerland (Lausanne area) and brought many to Buddhism; ordained 1st samanera on European soil. 1911:returned to Sri Lanka; thereafter lived at the Island Hermitage in Ratgama Lake, Dodanduwa. Interned during World War I as enemy alien. 1916: given passport to return to Germany via United States of America; travelled to Honolulu and then went to China but was arrested in Chungking and imprisoned in Hankow until 1919, then exchanged by the International Red Cross and sent back to Germany. Unable to return to Sri Lanka in 1920, so went on to Japan, became professor at Komazawa University. 1926: finally got back to Sri Lanka. World War II: again interned. 1946: returned to Dodanduwa. Nyanaponika Thera one of his disciple. Books including A Buddhist Dictionary, Guide Through the Abhidhamma, Path to Deliverance and The Word of the Buddha.

Narada, Mahathera (Sumanapala Perera, 1898 -1983)
Prominent English -educated Sinhalese bhikkhu. Born Colombo suburb; educated SPCK school, St. Benedict's College (RC) and Paramananda Vihara Sunday School. Entered Sangha at 18; teacher Pelene Vajiranana Mahanayaka Thera; received traditional monastic education but also studied philosophy, logic and ethics at U College (Colombo). Gained experience of Dhammaduta work with Servants of the Buddha Society. 1929: 1st journey aboard (to India); later travelled widely in South East Asia and developed closest ties with Indonesia and Vietnam; also promoted Theravada Buddhism in Western Europe. Was elected President of the Buddhist Vihara Society (founded London 1948). A few short stays in London. Also visited Australia. Publications including Buddhism in a Nutshell, The Buddha and His Teachings, The Buddhist Conception of Mind or Consciousness, The Buddhist Doctrine of Kamma and Rebirth, Brahma Viharas or The Sublime States, The Way to Nibbana, The Life of the Buddha, The Bodhisatta Ideal and An Elementary Pali Course. Translations including The Dhammapada and Abhidhammathasangaha - A Manual of Abhidhamma.

Pandita, Sayadaw U (Shwe Taung Gon Sayadaw U Panditabhivamsa)
b.1921, commenced study age 7, novice age 12, fully ordained age 20. Studied under many eminent Dhamma teachers and passed Pali and Dhamma examinations culminating in the Dhammachariya degree in 1952. First practised Vipassana 1950 under Mahasi Sayadaw and played important role in 6th Sangha Council. In 1959 accompanied Mahasi to Sri lanka and spent 3 yrs there opening new centres. On return to Burma became chief meditation teacher to three temples. Upon death of Mahasi in 1982, was elected principal precentor of Buddha Sasana Nuggaha Organization. Headed main Mahasi temple them moved to his own meditation centre. Has made many visits to the West and is head of many temples and centres.

Rahula, Ven. Walpola (1907-)
Sri Lankan scholar monk. Well-known preacher who criticized some popular Buddhist practices and took especial interest in social and economic matters; entered struggle for political freedom. Worked with Miss I.B. Horner of the Pali Text Society, and lectured widely in the USA and Japan. Best known book: What the Buddha Taught.

Rewata Dhama, Mahathera
Ven. Dr: Senior Burmese bhikkhu teaching in UK. Born 1929, Thamangone, Henzada dist, Burma. Joined local monastery at 5 and studied under various teachers. Age 11: samanera ordination. Age 20: bhikkhu ordination; preceptor - Myint Kwet Sayadaw of Henzada. Studied Pali and Theravada Buddhism at Aung Mingala Thidthi monastery, Rangoon; passed all exams to final Dhammacariya grade. Later went to Dakkhi Narama monastery, Mandalay, to study canon and commentaries under various eminent teachers. Afterwards appointed a teacher Aung Mingala Thidthi. Age 23: awarded title of Sasanadhaja Siripavaradhammacariya by President of Burma, 1956 : studied at Banaras Hindu and Varanasi University's 1964: obtained Master's degree in Sanskrit. 1967: PhD from Babaras Hindu University. Hon lecturer at both u's 1972: resigned to develop vipassana meditation under S.N. Goenka; had previously practised with, and been appointed a teacher by, Mahasi Sayadaw. 1975: came to England at invitation of West Midlands Buddhist Centre (Birmingham); appointed Spiritual Director by Gyalwa Karmapa. Helped set up other Buddhist Centres in Birmingham, London and I o Man. Since 1975: has travelled widely in UK, Europe, USSR, Far East and USA, teachings, lecturing, etc. 1982: appointed member of University Court of Birmingham University. Publications including edition of Abhidhammathasangaha (with commentary), a 3 volume editions of Visuddhimagga (with commentary), edition of First Sermon of the Buddha (in Hindi), etc. To 1975: Chief Editor of Parami (English/ Hindi periodical). 1969: appointed Chief Editor of Encyclopaedia of Buddhist Technical Terms by Sanskrit University, Varanasi.

Rhys Davids, Caroline (nee Foley, 1858-1942)
Pioneer Pali scholar. Educated U C London; Master Degree and DLitt degree; also became Fellow. Later Reader in Pali at School of Oriental & African Studies and Lecturer in Indian Philosophy at Manchester University. 1984: married T.W. Rhys Davids; issue- 2 daughters, 1 son. Collaborated with husband in Pali Text society (PTS); succeeded him as President, ' Interested in isolating in the Pali Canon the actual teaching of the Buddha…' (Christmas Humphreys). Numerous trans and editions; books including Gotama the Man, Sakya or Buddhist Origins and Wayfarer's Words.
Rhys Davids, Dr T.W. (Thomas William, 1843-1922)
Pioneer Pali scholar. Born. Colchester, son of Congregationalist minister. Educated Brighton and University of Breslau (Germany, where he gained PhD. 1864: entered Ceylon Civil Service. Drawn to Pali studies when work as magistrate produced a case involving a point of Buddhist ecclesiastical law, learnt Pali from Sumangala Thera (Yatramulle Unnanse). 1872: resigned from CCS; returned to London and studied Law. 1877: called to Bar; law practice did not flourish, so concentrated upon Pali and Buddhist studies. 1881: delivered Hibbert Trust Lecturers; also announced the formation of the Pali Text Society. 1894: married Caroline Augusta Foley, who had similar academic interests. 1882: Professor of Pali at London University. 1885-1904: Secretary and Librarian of Royal Asiatic Society; also a founder of School of Oriental & African Studies (London University). 1894: lectured at Cornell University. 1889-1900: visited Bodh Gaya and other Buddhist holy places in India. 1904-10: Professor of Comparative Religion, Victoria University, Manchester. 1907: President of Buddhist Society of Great Britain & Ireland. 1910: elected President of India Society. Retired to Chipstead, Surrey. Numerous editions and trans; books including The Ancient Coins & Measures of Ceylon, Manual of Buddhism; Buddhism, its history & Literature and Buddhist India. Co-author with Dr Wm Stede of Pali-English Dictionary.
Saddhatissa, Hammalawa Mahanayaka Thera
Senior Sri Lankan born bhikkhu and scholar. (1914-90), Hammalawa, Satkorale province, Sri Lanka. 1926: bhikkhu ordination. Undergraduate studies at Vidyodaya Pirivena and Prachina Bhasopakara Samagama (Sri Lanka); also studied Banaras, London (SOAS, 1958-1961) and Edinburgh (PhD 1965). Proficient in Pali, Sanskrit, Prakrit, Sinhala and Hindi. 1940-1973: held various academic posts, including Professor of Pali, Banaras Hindu University (1956-7); Lecturer in Sinhala at SOAS, London (1958-60); Professor of Buddhism & Pali at Toronto University (1966-69); visiting lecturer at Oxford (1973). Has also conducted lecture tours in Europe, USA and Japan. 1956: at Nagpur (India) as advisor to Dr Amdedkar during mass conversions of former 'untouchables' to Buddhism. 1957: Head of London Buddhist Vihara until 1985. 1966: revived British Mahabodhi Society (defunct since World War II); became its President. Has helped establish other centres, including new London Buddhist Vihara (1964), Buddhist Centre, Oakenholt, Oxford (1971); Buddhist Research Library, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka (1984); Buddha Vihara, Handsworth, Brimingham (1986). Current appointments including President, Sangha Council of Great Britain (1966). Sanghanayaka Thera (Buddhist Primate) of UK (1980); Vice-President, Pali Text Society (1984). Books in English including The Buddha's Way, Buddhist Ethics; Essence of Budhism; Handbook for Buddhists; Introduction to Buddhism and The Life of the Buddha. Various editions of Pali texts.
Sumedho, Ajahn
American-born Theravada meditation master; founder of various Western monasteries. Born 1934. Began Far East Studies at University of Washington; studies interrupted by spell of service in US Navy during Korean War; visited Japan and encountered Buddhism. Later returned to University of Washington to complete degree; then to University of California for MA in Asian Studies; this completed 1963. 1964: to Borneo with Peace Corps; then to Thailand; taught English part-time at Thammasat University, Bangkok and practised meditation. On vacation in Laos recommended to ordain in temple in Nong Kai (Northeast Thailand); practised solo for 1 year; later became a disciple of Ajahn Cha at Wat Pah Pong in Ubon Province. 1973: after 7 Vassa (Rains Retreats) allowed to visit India as dhutanga monk. 1974: established and became Abbot of the international Wat Pah Nanachat at Bung Wai. 1976: 1st return visit to USA; visited UK and contacted English Sangha Trust. 1977: came to UK with Ajahn Cha at invitation of English Sangha Trust; resided at Hampstead Buddhist Vihara.1979: established Chithurst Forest Monastery (Wat Pah Cittaviveka) with 108 acres of forest in rural West Sussex (UK) and became 1st Abbot. Various other centres have sprung from this: Amaravati (Hemel Hempstead), Harnham Vihara (Northumberland) and the Devon Vihara. PresentlyAbbot of Amaravati, but teaches elsewhere and goes on regular world tours. Hon President of the Buddhist Society (London). Books including Cittaviveka (Teachings from the Silent Mind), The Path to the Deathless, The Way It Is and The Mind and the Way.
Thittila, Sayadaw U
Senior Burmese bhikkhu. (1896-1997), Pyawbwe, Central Burma. Samanera at 15 under U Kavinda; bhikkhu ordination at 20 under Ashin Adicca Vamsa. At 25 passed doctoral exams with highest hons; taught and lectured in Rangoon for 12 years. 1938-1952: in UK; spend war years there; worked as stretcher bearer in Blitz. Onetime Librarian at Buddhist Society. Lectured widely, especially on Abhidhamma. 1952: returned to Burma; became Professor of Pali at Rangoon University. Has again visited UK and USA. Translations including Vibbanga (Book of Analysis).