What is Tibetan Buddhism?

What is Tibetan Buddhism?

Author: Nicholas Bright Haight December 6, 2025 Duration: 20:24

Bright on Buddhism - Episode 128 - What is Tibetan Buddhism?What are some important historical points about it? What do the various schools of Tibetan Buddhism believe?

Resources: Cabezón, José Ignacio (26 October 2006). "Tibetan Buddhist Society". In Juergensmeyer, Mark (ed.). The Oxford Handbook of Global Religions. doi:10.1093/oxfordhb/9780195137989.003.0010.

Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche (1993). Gates to Buddhist Practice: Essential Teachings of a Tibetan Master. Padma Publishing. ISBN 1-881847-02-0.

Coleman, Graham, ed. (1993). A Handbook of Tibetan Culture. Boston: Shambhala Publications. ISBN 1-57062-002-4.

Mullin, Glenn H. (2008). Living in the Face of Death: The Tibetan Tradition. Snow Lion Publications. ISBN 978-1-55939-908-1.

Powers, John (2004). History as Propaganda: Tibetan Exiles versus the People's Republic of China. Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-517426-7.

Powers, John (2008). A Concise Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism. Snow Lion Publications.

Smith, E. Gene (2001). Among Tibetan Texts: History and Literature of the Himalayan Plateau. Boston: Wisdom Publications. ISBN 0-86171-179-3.

Wallace, B. Alan (1993). Tibetan Buddhism From the Ground Up: A Practical Approach for Modern Life. Wisdom Publications. ISBN 978-0-86171-075-1.

Yeshe, Lama Thubten (2001). The Essence of Tibetan Buddhism. Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive. ISBN 1-891868-08-X.


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Nicholas Bright Haight brings his academic background and personal curiosity to each episode of Bright On Buddhism. As a scholar of East Asian Buddhism currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Religion, with a specialization in pre-modern Japanese Buddhist architecture, Nick approaches these conversations with both depth and accessibility. The discussions unfold in a relaxed, question-and-answer style, making often complex philosophical and historical ideas feel approachable and immediately relevant. You’ll hear explorations that draw from his specific research areas, like Japanese Buddhist historical responses to cultural shifts, while also addressing the broader, timeless questions at the heart of the tradition. This isn’t a formal lecture series, but rather a thoughtful dialogue meant for anyone with an interest in how these ancient teachings intersect with modern life. The Bright On Buddhism podcast creates a space where scholarly insight meets casual conversation, demystifying topics without losing their profound essence. Whether you're well-versed in Buddhist thought or just beginning to explore spirituality and religion, these episodes offer a grounded and informative perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 252

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