RG ST 31: Lecture 11/22/11Institution of the “Tulku”: Rule by IncarnationOverview: 3 Types of Tulku•Tulku is a translation of the Sanskrit word nirmanakaya, or “emanation body” ofthe Buddha•In Tibetan Buddhism there are 3 types of tulku:---Emanations of Buddhas or bodhisattvas who appear in infinite forms for thesake of ordinary beings---Manifestations of accompanied yogis and yoginis who appear in many formsthrough the power of their wisdom and yogic attainment---Rebirths of former virtuous or meritorious teachers who are fulfilling theirvows and spiritual goals from past lives•Originally tulku referred only to Buddha emanations or manifestations of siddhas(accomplished yogis)•Later Tibetans expanded the meaning to include rebirths of former virtuousteachers based on their good karma from previous lives.History of Tulku Tradition•Earliest tulkus include historical figures who were emanations of bodhisattvas,etc.•King Trisong Detsen & Yeshe Tsogyel said to be emanations of Manjushri andTara, respectively.•Historically, the 2nd Karmapa (karma Pakshi, 1203-1283) is considered the firstofficial tulku•He was enthroned on the seat of his predecessor and continued the work of theprevious incarnation•2nd and 3rd Dalai lamas also early official tulkusFoundations of Tulku System•The concept of tulkus is based on 4 basic Buddhist principles:1) The 3 Buddha Bodies (trikaya)2) Enlightened aspiration (i.e., bodhicitta)3) The law of karma4) Rebirth (samsara)•Generally, Buddhas are said to have 3 “bodies” or dimensions:1) Ultimate body (dharmakaya)2) Enjoyment body (sambhogakaya)3) Emanation body (nirmanakaya)•The “tulku” principle primarily based on the nirmanakaya (Tib. Tulku)•
