Tibetan Buddhism is renowned for its mystique, and the various titles given to its monks often confuse those unfamiliar with the tradition. Today, we will clarify the differences between “Lama,” “Rinpoche,” “Living Buddha,” “Tulku,” and “Khenpo.”
Lama: The Spiritual Guide
“Lama” is a transliteration from Tibetan, originally derived from the Sanskrit term meaning “guru” or “spiritual teacher.” In Tibetan, it also carries the meaning of “supreme being” or “ultimate guide.” A Lama is a respectful title given to a highly accomplished monk who has mastered both the exoteric and esoteric teachings of Buddhism, and who serves as a teacher, guiding students in their practice, particularly in tantric meditation.
It’s important to note that not every Tibetan Buddhist monk is a Lama. Many are simply ordinary monks who are still on the path to becoming a spiritual guide. However, when the term “Lama” was introduced to Han Chinese regions, it gradually became a general term for all ordained individuals in Tibetan Buddhism. This is similar to how the term “Heshang” in Han Chinese Buddhism, which originally referred to highly respected monks, is now used to refer to all ordained monastics.
With the development of the Living Buddha (Tulku) system, the honorific “Lama” gradually became an important title for Living Buddhas, signifying that the Living Buddha is a “guide” or “spiritual teacher” who leads followers on the path to enlightenment.
Another important point is that not all Tibetan Buddhist monks wear red robes. There are many different schools within Tibetan Buddhism, and some, like the Kagyu school, wear white robes and are known as the “White Sect.”
Rinpoche: The Precious One
“Rinpoche” is also a transliteration from Tibetan, meaning “precious one” or “human jewel.” It is an honorific title given to a practitioner who embodies great learning, wisdom, and compassion.
This is one of the most affectionate and esteemed titles that Tibetan people use for a Living Buddha. When meeting or talking about a Living Buddha, Tibetan devotees will usually use the term “Rinpoche” rather than referring to their official title or personal name.
Living Buddha and Tulku: Reincarnated Masters
The term “Living Buddha” is a term used in Han Chinese culture to describe certain reincarnated practitioners in Tibetan regions. The closest equivalent in Tibetan is “Tulku,” which means “incarnation” or “emanation.”
“Tulku,” is a Tibetan transliteration meaning “emanation body.” Tibetan Buddhism believes that the Dharmakaya (Buddha’s Body of Truth) is not visible, the Sambhogakaya (Buddha’s Body of Bliss) is sometimes visible, and the Nirmanakaya (Buddha’s Emanation Body) can appear at any time. Therefore, an enlightened being, while alive, benefits living beings in many places; and after passing away, they can have multiple emanations.
Therefore, “Tulku” is the most accurate and comprehensive term to convey the meaning and essence of “Living Buddha” and is therefore considered the most orthodox title.
Khenpo: The Abbot
“Khenpo” originally referred to the person who presides over monastic ordinations in Tibetan Buddhism, similar to an abbot in a Han Chinese Buddhist temple. Later, it came to refer to any Lama who is well-versed in Buddhist scriptures and acts as the head of a monastery or a monastic college (Zha Cang).
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