Classes and texts in the curriculum of Drepung Loseling Monastic University

Abstract

This article examines the system of education in the philosophical college of Drepung Loseling Monastic University (India), introduces into the scientific discourse a full list of subjects and titles of the texts with their identification by the collected works of Indian and Tibetan authors posted on the digital platform TBRC (Tibetan Buddhist Resource Center). The primary sources and commentarial literature are determined. The learning process begins with the preliminary study of logic and epistemology, proceeding with the five great treatises that are core of the curriculum. The article combines classical textual approach and contextual analysis, with consideration of the Buddhist commentarial tradition; as well as methods of analytical comparison, structural and content classification. The novelty of this research lies in introduction into the scientific discourse of the previously unexplored system of education and its study guides. It is established that the monastery relies on the study guides compiled by Panchen Sonam Drakpa, as well as other prominent Tibetan authors – Je Tsongkhapa, Gendun Drub and Sherab Sangpo. The main method for digesting the material is the debates. Although with immigration of the Tibetans to India and reestablishment of Loseling College the curriculum structure was preserved, there are also innovations due to adding several grades and classes on the grammar and history of the Gelug School.