Incarnation: The History and Mysticism of the Tulku Tradition of Tibet

by Tulku Thondup

A tulku is a fully enlightened one (buddha) or highly accomplished adept (siddha) who chooses to be reborn again and again for the benefit of all beings. Most tulkus, though, are the rebirths of well-trained masters who are engaged in spiritual training and serving others. Tibetan Buddhists have, for well over a millennium, been meticulously following the tradition of finding, recognizing, enthroning, training, and venerating these revered figures who provide teachings of liberation for both monks and laypeople. This guide to the tulku tradition covers its long history, separating fact from fiction, giving an overview of how the system works, and providing short biographies of some of the great tulkus of the past and present.  Included are accounts of the magical occurrences that are associated with these remarkable beings, and advice for how anyone can set out on the tulku path.

Genres: Spirituality, Religion

176 pages, Paperback

First published August 9, 2011

Reviews

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most lucid accounts of reincarnation that I've ever read. Beautiful, clear and fascinating. I'd highly recommend this book to any serious Dharma practitioner.

[Bob Woodley · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short guide to the Tibetan Tulku tradition. Tulkus are advanced beings/bodhisattvas who continue to incarnate in order to help others. So topics like recognition, types of deaths (rainbow bodies, etc ) are covered. The best parts are the biographies of the various Tulkus.

Some of this is clearly mythical, some may represent recent reports from more reliable sources, who am I to judge.

The way Tibetans approach reincarnation is much different than in Hinduism. The Tibetan tradition is very structured and locked-down. Sometimes it feels like video-game logic. You could write a reincarnation video game following the rules here.

I somehow feel that the truth is more fluid and ambiguous.

[Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great, and very western friendly history of tulkus in tibetan buddhism. Besides the very detailed explanation of the tulku system and the different kinds of tulkus, Tulku Thondup also writes about the deaths of the great masters.

[Nikko · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best - and really only - definitive guide to the Tulku system.

Note, I am affiliated with Shambhala Publications but this an objective and heartfelt review.

[Priya Darshini · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very insightful into the inner workings of Buddhism. Gave me insight to the occult beyond the tangible world.