Enchantment with Tibetan Lamas in the United States

This article explores the relationships of non-Tibetan American disciples with Tibetan spiritual teachers (lamas) in terms of theory, practice, and experiential meaning. Contrary to some previous studies, data for this article indicate that submission to the lama is not an end in itself, but rather...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Capper, Daniel 1962- (Author)
Format: Electronic Article
Language:English
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Published: Carfax Publ. [2004]
In: Journal of contemporary religion
Year: 2004, Volume: 19, Issue: 2, Pages: 137-153
Online Access: Volltext (Resolving-System)
Description
Summary:This article explores the relationships of non-Tibetan American disciples with Tibetan spiritual teachers (lamas) in terms of theory, practice, and experiential meaning. Contrary to some previous studies, data for this article indicate that submission to the lama is not an end in itself, but rather ideally provides an opportunity for disciples to become lamas themselves. Many disciples may find personal empowerment, oriented around the theme of compassionate social action. Understanding that surrender to the spiritual teacher is only a means to a personally empowering goal clarifies our understanding of many Asian religious practices in the West.
ISSN:1469-9419
Contains:Enthalten in: Journal of contemporary religion
Persistent identifiers:DOI: 10.1080/1353790042000207674