Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, also known as Kyabje Trijang Dorje Chang (1901–1981), was one of the most influential Tibetan Buddhist masters of the 20th century. He played a pivotal role in preserving and spreading the Gelug tradition, particularly during the challenging period of Tibet’s occupation and subsequent exile. Below is a detailed account of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Recognition
• Born in Tsel Gungtang, Central Tibet, in 1901, Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche displayed extraordinary qualities from a young age.
• Recognized as the reincarnation of Tsultrim Palden by the 13th Dalai Lama, he began his monastic training early and showed exceptional aptitude in Buddhist studies and practice.
Education and Teachers
• Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche was his root guru, from whom he received extensive teachings on Lamrim (Stages of the Path), Lojong (Mind Training), and Tantra.
Role as Junior Tutor to the 14th Dalai Lama
• In 1941, Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche was appointed as the Junior Tutor to the young 14th Dalai Lama. For over four decades, he played a crucial role in shaping the His Holiness Dalai Lama’s education, providing comprehensive teachings on Buddhist philosophy, tantric practices, and political and social skills. His guidance was instrumental during one of Tibet’s most turbulent periods, including the Chinese occupation and the H.H. Dalai Lama’s escape to India in 1959.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO TIBETAN BUDDHISM
Preservation of Teachings
• Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche was a repository of the Ganden Oral Tradition originating from Je Tsongkhapa. He ensured its continuity by teaching countless monks, nuns, and lay practitioners.
• He authored numerous texts, including his collected works in seven volumes.
Promoter of Lamrim and Lojong
• His teachings on Lamrim and Lojong inspired thousands. His ability to convey profound teachings with clarity made him one of the most sought-after teachers of his time.
Dorje Shugden Practice
• Following his root guru Kyabje Pabongka Rinpoche’s guidance, he actively promoted Dorje Shugden practice. He wrote extensively on this protector deity to ensure its preservation for future generations.
Exile and Rebuilding Tibetan Buddhism
• After fleeing Tibet with the H.H. Dalai Lama in 1959 due to Chinese occupation, Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche played a crucial role in establishing Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in exile.
• He contributed to rebuilding the three great Gelug monasteries (Ganden, Sera, Drepung) in South India and supported smaller monasteries globally.
• He co-authored plans for the Tibetan Government-in-Exile alongside Kyabje Ling Rinpoche.
Global Influence
• The flourishing of Tibetan Buddhism in the West is strongly connected to Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche. His disciples include prominent figures such as:
• Kyabje Zong Rinpoche
• Venerable Geshe Rabten
• Venerable Lama Yeshe
• Drubwang Gangchen Rinpoche and many more.
These disciples established Buddhist centers worldwide, ensuring that Je Tsongkhapa’s tradition reached global audiences.
Literary Contributions
Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche left behind a rich legacy of writings:
• Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche, indeed composed the current Tibetan national anthem, known as “Gyallu,” around 1950. This anthem has been used by Tibetans in exile since its introduction and continues to serve as the anthem of the Central Tibetan Administration.
• His collected works span seven volumes covering Sutra, Tantra, Lamrim teachings, Lojong practices, and rituals.
• His poetic style reflects both elegance and spiritual depth.
Legacy
Kyabje Trijang Rinpoche passed away in 1981 but remains one of the most revered figures in Tibetan Buddhism. His efforts ensured that:
• The Gelug tradition flourished despite adversity.
• Tibetan Buddhism gained a strong foothold globally.
• The teachings of Je Tsongkhapa continued to inspire generations.
Today, his reincarnation, Kyabje Trijang Chocktrul Rinpoche (born 1982), continues this profound legacy by guiding practitioners worldwide through teachings and spiritual leadership.