Tradition of the Panchen Lama in Tibetan Buddhism

Drawing on an extensive background in psychology and religion, Robert Fettgather was co-founder and a discussion leader with Tashi Lhunpo Sangha. Robert Fettgather’s Buddhist organization stands as a Palo Alto, California “community of friends” who practice meditation and seek Dharma together.

The roots of the approach to spirituality and self-awareness extend back to the 15th century and the establishment of the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery by His Holiness Gyalwa Gedun Drupa (the first Dalai Lama). Over the next century, the Tibetan monastery increased in importance to the point where its abbot, Lobsang Choekyi Gyaltsen, gained recognition from the fifth Dalai Lama as Panchen Lama, or “Great Scholar.”

The relationship between Dalai Lamas and Panchen Lamas evolved synergistically, with each Lama tasked with searching for his counterpoint’s reincarnation. The chosen Lama, whether Dalai or Panchen, initially serves as disciple and ultimately takes on a role as guru.

From the mid-20th century and beyond, the tradition of the Panchen Lama has become intertwined with international politics, as Tibetan culture and religion have come under threat. Despite this, traditional Tibetan spiritual practices remain strong.

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Buddhist Concepts of Suffering and Dharma

Robert Fettgather is a longtime psychology instructor who has extensive experience working with those with developmental disabilities. As co-founder of Tashi Lhunpo Sangha, Robert Fettgather helped grow and guide a community of likeminded people practicing meditation and studying the dharma in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Common to both Buddhism and Hinduism, dharma is a tradition that reaches back to the teachings of Buddha. In the Hindu tradition, it is a moral law that governs all aspects of a person’s life and includes virtues such as non-injury, truthfulness, and generosity.

By contrast, in Buddhism, dharma represents a universal truth that is common to all people. It comes from Buddha’s first sermon to disciples following his enlightenment, when he spoke of suffering and how this results from a failure to realize that no person stands alone, and that everything is interdependent. Grasping for that which one does not possess results in suffering and a perpetual sense of needless striving.

Moving forward from this condition is possible through the Noble Eightfold Path, which encompasses meditation and ethical life choices, and is informed by truths embodied as dharma. These include correct intentions, understanding, effort, and mindfulness. In essence, the dharma is those thoughts and actions undertaken with a clearly focused heart and mind that lead away from suffering toward self-realization.

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