The Kingdoms of Gu.ge Pu.hrang, According to mNaga'ris rgyal.rabs by Gu.ge mkhan.chen Ngag.dbang grags.pa

Roberto Vitali

Tho.ling gtsug.lag.khang lo.gcig.stong

642

1996

9780906026427

Tibet

1 total

The Golden Manuscript recounts in words and images the visionary experiences of the Great Fifth Dalai Lama, Ngawang Lobzang Gyamtso (1617-1682). A new discovery, it is the sole illustrated secret autobiography known to exist in the world. The Dalai Lama states that it was composed and executed in order to guide the uninitiated. Towards the end of his life a group of senior court officials and companions requested the Dalai Lama to set down in an easily understandable manner the many visions that had occurred to him throughout his life and to explain their significance. The result is the exquisite Gold Manuscript on 184 folios which was started in 1674 and completed around 11 years after his death. It is composed of 16 texts executed by his personal calligrapher and with 67 illustrations and 19 miniatures drawn by his own master-artist. As a detailed narrative catalogue of his visionary experiences the Gold Manuscript serves as a guide not only to the inner mystical life of this extraordinary man but also to the complex interweaving of the various gods, goddesses, protectors, teachers, demons and spirits who populated his consciousness. The texts are reproduced in their entirety and are summarized in translation by Dr Samten Karmay, who also provides an historical introduction.