International Conference on the Life of Second Buddha
Context:
International Buddhist Confederation, in collaboration with the Nava Nalanda Mahavihara has organised a two-day International Conference on the Life and Living Legacy of Guru Padmasambhava at Nalanda, Bihar.
The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), based in New Delhi, is a global umbrella organisation for Buddhists. Founded with the support of the highest Buddhist religious authorities, the IBC includes over 320 member organisations—both monastic and lay—across 39 countries. Through its “Collective Wisdom United Voice” initiative, the IBC has united thousands of hearts.
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- The conference seeks to delve into the profound impact of Guru Padmasambhava for his pivotal role in spreading Buddhism throughout Tibet and the Himalayan regions.
- A special screening of the film ‘The Sacred Journey of Sacred Relics from India to Thailand’ was also featured, illustrating the spiritual connection between India and Southeast Asia.
- Key themes of the Conference include Biographical Insights and Mythology, Teachings of Vajrayana Buddha Dhamma and the Tantras, Cultural and Artistic Contributions, Travels and Regional Impact and Legacy and Contemporary Relevance.
About Second Buddha
- Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, is a pivotal figure in Tibetan Buddhism, often referred to as the “Second Buddha.”
- He is believed to have lived in the 8th century and is credited with introducing Tantric Buddhism to Tibet.
- His teachings and practices form the foundation of the Nyingma school, the oldest of the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
Early Life and Background
- Padmasambhava is said to have been born in the kingdom of Oddiyana, which is thought to be located in present-day Pakistan or India.
- According to legend, he emerged from a lotus flower in Lake Dhanakosha at the age of eight.
Contributions to Tibetan Buddhism
- In 747 AD, Padmasambhava was invited to Tibet by King Trisong Detsen to assist in establishing the first Buddhist monastery, Samye.
- His role was crucial in overcoming the local demonic forces that obstructed the construction of the monastery.
- He is credited with subduing these spirits and converting them to Buddhism, a process that involved integrating local beliefs into the Buddhist framework rather than outright destruction.
- Padmasambhava’s teachings emphasised the practice of Tantric rituals, and he is known for concealing various sacred texts (terma) that would later be discovered by enlightened beings (tertöns) in future generations.
- These texts are essential to the Nyingma tradition and include teachings on Dzogchen, a central practice in Tibetan Buddhism.
Legacy and Iconography
- Padmasambhava’s legacy is profound, as he is seen as a personification of the guru principle within Vajrayana Buddhism.
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Vajrayana Buddhism, often referred to as “Tantric Buddhism” or “Esoteric Buddhism,” is a prominent branch of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasises the use of specific rituals, practices, and teachings aimed at achieving enlightenment. It originated in northern India around the 5th century CE and later spread to Tibet, where it became known as Tibetan Buddhism. |
- He is often depicted in thangkas and sculptures with a wrathful yet compassionate demeanour, symbolising his mastery over both spiritual and worldly challenges.
- His image typically includes a lotus, representing purity and enlightenment, and he is often shown with various symbolic implements that denote his role as a teacher and protector.
