Brief Biography of Geshe Ngawang Kunga Gyamtsho (1702-1776)
Brief Biography of Geshe Ngawang Kunga
Gyamtsho (1702-1776)
Geshe Ngawang Kunga Gyamtsho, born in Pagar Rilung
Gonpa in Bhutan, was a remarkable individual whose talents and contributions
left a lasting impact on his community. He was known as Ngawang Dondup in his
early years.
From a young age, Geshe displayed exceptional
qualities, endearing himself to the elders of the village with his wise words
and kind demeanor. His upbringing was filled with love and admiration from all
who knew him.
Under the guidance of esteemed teachers such as
Jetsun Sang Ngag Gyamtsho and Jetsun Jamyang Gyamtsho, Geshe embarked on a
journey of learning that encompassed a wide range of subjects, from grammar to
philosophy. His dedication and hard work culminated in the successful
completion of his studies.
One of Geshe's notable achievements was the writing
of the Kanjur at Semtokha Dzong, where he demonstrated his skill by producing
fourteen shog loka on regular days and sixteen shog loka on holy days.
His expertise caught the attention of Lama Druk
Namgyal of Gombrag Gonpa, who commissioned Geshe to write the Kanjur for the
Gonpa.
Subsequently, Geshe was called to Gyalsa Tewa in
Thimphu by the government to participate in the writing of Kunga Gyaltshen’s
sTon Cas. His exceptional work was highly praised, leading to him being
bestowed with the title of "Geshe" and receiving a gift from the
authorities. Geshe's reputation as a scholar and writer spread far and wide,
solidifying his legacy as a respected figure in Bhutanese history.
A land dispute arose when someone encroached upon
the Geshe's parental land. The matter was brought to the attention of the Desi,
who found the litigant guilty and imprisoned him. However, the Geshe appealed
to the authorities for the release of the individual.
During a deep sleep, the Geshe heard a voice calling
out "Kawa Pel Tseg, Kawa Pel Tseg". Upon awakening, he was informed
that he was indeed a "Kawa Pel Tseg", fulfilling the prophecy of Dro
Dul Terdag Lingpa which stated, "Pel Tseg Trulpa Lho Nas Kunga Ming".
A local devotee requested the Geshe to preside over
the reading of Kanjur at Bar Tsa. Despite minor disruptions, the program was
successfully completed with the support of the Drungpa, Patrons, and even the
Penlop. At the conclusion of the reading, Bar Tsa was renamed Thukten Lekshad
Choling by His Holiness Shakya Rinchen, the ninth Je Khenpo of Bhutan.
Despite initially refusing the responsibility, the
Geshe was eventually appointed as the lama of Chizhing Gonpa by the Desi.
However, a rebellion ensued from his disciple Tenzin and his associates.
Upon arriving at Dagana, the Geshe was warmly
welcomed by Daga Penlop Gya Ling and his staff extended their hospitality.
Geshe took a three-day rest in Daga before his return journey. On his return
trip, Daga Penlop and officials accompanied Geshe with horses and Zing Garps.
Geshe
witnessed the destruction of Trashi Chodzong by fire. However, he also noted
that within years, Desi Zhidar (Sonam Lhundrup) had reconstructed the Dzong,
restoring it to its former glory.
Geshe also had the opportunity to witness the first
Anglo-Bhutanese war. He conducted rituals for the soldiers who had lost their
lives during the conflict, praying for their welfare.
Reference
1. Biography of Pagar Lama Ngawang Kunga Gyamtsho, TBRC.
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