“Rely on the teaching, not the person
Rely on the meaning, not the words.
Rely on the definitive meaning, not the provisional meaning.
Rely on wisdom, not on consciousness.”
– the Four Reliances, quoted from Rebel Buddha, Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche
Learning a language is a bit like taking a little, big adventure—exciting, puzzling, and illuminating all at the same time.
Going Beyond the Words
In one sense, language is just convention: functional but also capable of obscuring reality when we lose ourselves in conceptual thinking. Yet language can also open our minds and hearts, pointing beyond words to what truly is and what truly liberates us.
At Karmapa Center 16, we study Tibetan not just as a language, but as a gateway to the Buddha’s teachings and the wisdom of the great Tibetan masters. Through exploring the Dharma in its original language, we reflect on the meaning behind the words, supporting each other on the path to freedom and compassion.
Explore this page:
- Sunday Tibetan Language Class
- Accomplishing Shared Aspirations
- How We Learn Together
- Registration & Offerings
Sunday Tibetan Language Class
Every Sunday Evening
Every Sunday evening, we gather online to study Tibetan language through dharma texts and conversations. Currently, we are exploring Basic Dharma Discourses, learning to read and discuss fundamental teachings in Tibetan while developing skills to translate them into our native languages.
Our approach mirrors the teachings shared in our Sunday Meditation for All: Dharma Talks & Practice series, allowing us to deepen our understanding both through practice and through the original language of the scriptures.
Details:
- What: Tibetan Language Class: Basic Dharma Discourses
- When: Every Sunday, 7:00–8:30 PM Central Time (Chicago, USA)
- Where: Online on Zoom (recordings available for registered participants)
- Prerequisites: Some knowledge of Tibetan, or willingness to study the basics (especially the alphabet and pronunciation) with support and additional resources
Accomplishing Shared Aspirations
Whether you aspire to read scriptures from the Kangyur and Tengyur, wish to understand teachings in Tibetan from His Holiness the 17th Karmapa or other teachers, recite traditional sadhanas in Tibetan, or be able to have basic conversations with native Tibetan speakers, you are welcome to join our Tibetan Language Class.
Reading dharma texts in their original language brings us closer to the authors’ intent and the precise meanings that sometimes shift or fade in translation. By developing these skills, we can deepen our own practice and help make these precious teachings accessible to others who don’t know Tibetan.
As His Holiness the 16th Gyalwang Karmapa taught, we always seek to benefit the teachings and all beings. Learning Tibetan is one way to honor the lineage and continue this work.
How We Learn Together
- Structured Learning – We read together in class, discuss some grammar, work on vocabulary, and often review what we’ve learned
- Dharma-Centered Topics – Together with colloquial Tibetan, we particularly look at terms and conversations in connection with the Dharma
- Translation Practice – We develop the skill of conveying the meaning and intent behind the words in our own language, especially English
- Supportive Community – Join live or catch up with recordings; questions are always welcome, and we create an informal space to share insights and learning experiences together
- Personal Guidance – Facilitated by Karma Ösung, a novice monk of the Karma Kagyü lineage guided by our resident teacher, Acharya Lhakpa Tshering, who studied Tibetan mainly at Sarah College in India along with basic teachings of the Karmapa tradition
Registration and Offerings
Making an offering or donation is optional and is not required to register for our Tibetan Language Class. You can join for free by selecting a ‘free ticket’. If you would like to make a donation to support the stūpa project or the facilitation of this class, please choose an option below.
Language on the Path
After selecting a ‘free ticket’ or making an offering below, the Zoom link and other practical information will be delivered in a confirmation email.
Recordings will be made available to all registered participants, allowing you to review lessons or catch up when you can’t join live.
If you have any questions about the class, please email communications[at]karmapacenter16.org
We warmly invite you to join us on this journey of studying, contemplating, and discussing the dharma through its original language—for the benefit of all.
Karmapa Khyenno!
