Xizang holds preliminary exam for doctoral degree equivalent in Tibetan Buddhism

LHASA -- A preliminary examination for the Geshe Lharampa, the highest degree in the exoteric teachings of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism, commenced at Drepung Monastery in Lhasa on June 30 and will last until July 8.

Geshe means "intellectual" in Tibetan. The Geshe Lharampa is equivalent to a doctoral degree in modern education.

A total of 13 monks from major monasteries in Lhasa, Shigatse, Chamdo, Nagchu of Xizang autonomous region, as well as the Gedan Songzanlin Monastery in Shangri-la county of Diqing Tibetan autonomous prefecture, Southwest China's Yunnan province, took part in the exam this year.

During the examination, the candidates will participate in on-site debates on the five classic scriptures of Tibetan Buddhism in the presence of 32 examiners and over 700 monks, followed by relevant theoretical knowledge tests.

Lobsang Thakje, 43, a candidate from Tashilhunpo Monastery in Shigatse, has devoted himself to Buddhist studies for more than 20 years. Despite a solid foundation in Buddhism, he felt mixed emotions sitting in the preparation room for the exam.

"As a scriptural learning monk, I feel this precious opportunity is truly rare. I sincerely thank my tutors who have taught me diligently and fellow friends who have supported me along the way," said Lobsang Thakje. "Although under great pressure, I will do my utmost."

After the preliminary exam, the appraisal committee will conduct a comprehensive review of the 13 candidates' performances in the debates and theoretical tests, and determine the list and rankings of those qualified for the final 2027 Geshe Lharampa degree exam.

Data from the Xizang branch of the Buddhist Association of China shows that since the resumption of the Geshe Lharampa degree examination system in Xizang in 2004, a total of 215 monks have obtained the degree to date.