His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin, Ratna Vajra Rinpoche, delivered this talk on January 16, 2022, at Tsechen Kunchab Ling, U.S.A., in commemoration of the mahāparinirvāṇa anniversary of Sakya Paṇḍita.
Sakya Paṇḍita, a luminary of the 13th century, remains one of the most revered figures in Tibetan Buddhism. As the fourth Sakya patriarch, he is celebrated for his profound wisdom, both scholarly and spiritual achievements, and unwavering dedication to the Dharma. His pivotal role—extending beyond the Sakya tradition into Tibetan Buddhism as a whole—has left an enduring legacy. His life, embodying the virtues of moral integrity and spiritual excellence, continues to inspire practitioners.
His remarkable life has been documented in various accounts, each highlighting different facets of his extraordinary qualities. This particular text draws upon a hymn to Sakya Paṇḍita composed by the esteemed Sakya teacher, Yarlungpa Sengé Gyaltsen. Recounted by His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin, the hymn offers a glimpse into his noble qualities and achievements. The translation and editorial team has meticulously rendered this hymn, accompanied by illustrations that bring to life some of his most remarkable attributes.
Through this work, we are invited to reflect on his virtuous life and be inspired to cultivate noble qualities. May we follow in the footsteps of such great beings.
Source: This teaching was obtained from the Tsecheb Kunchab Ling Youtube.
Sakya Paṇḍita, the fourth Sakya patriarch, was renowned for his profound knowledge and exceptional wisdom. He was bestowed with the esteemed title of "Paṇḍita," a term rooted in India that signifies a scholar of extraordinary erudition. What distinguished him, earning renown across the Tibetan region and enabling him to transcend the boundaries of traditions and schools? Why was he venerated as one of the three great manifestations of Mañjuśrī in the Land of Snow?
The noble qualities and extraordinary virtues of Sakya Paṇḍita defy the limits of language to fully convey. While various biographies illuminate the details of his life, how can we truly comprehend the magnitude of his contributions and achievements?
Drawing from the praise composed by the Sakya master Yarlungpa Sengé Gyaltsen, His Holiness the 42nd Sakya Trizin offers a heartfelt account of Sakya Paṇḍita’s legacy. May this text inspire all to awaken wisdom, emulate Sakya Paṇḍita’s union of compassion and wisdom, and aspire toward greater virtue and profound understanding.
This Dharma teachings e-library is made possible by a grant from Sachen Foundation, and the generous donations of the Yueh Family Charitable Fund, and the Chan Family.