| 84. Q: What are the main characteristics of Tibetan Buddhism? | |
A: Tibetan Buddhism, commonly known as Lamaism, is a branch of Buddhism practiced mainly in areas inhabited by Tibetans and Mongolians. It emerged during the late 10th century. It was during the mid-13th century that Lamaism intertwined with political power in Tibet, and that later, with the support of the central government of the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), it spread to areas inhabited by Mongolians.
Tibetan Buddhism has the following characteristics:
First, for a long period of time it took the form of a long period of time it took the form of a theocracy, whereby religion and politics combine. Second, most of the Tibetans are devout believers in Tibetan Buddhism. Third, it has a strong aura of mystique, particularly the reincarnation system of the Living Buddha, which is a unique characteristic of Tibetan Buddhism. Fourth, it emphasized self-cultivation according to rules and doctrines of Buddhism. Fifth, it has formed several sects, the major ones being the Ningma (Red) Sect, Kargyu (White) Sect, Sagya (Variegated) Sect and Gelug (Yellow) Sect. |
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