Terjék József: Collection of Tibetan MSS and Xylographs of Alexander Csoma de Kőrös.

Catalogue

34 school stands out oven in the otherwise strong relations between Western Tibet (Ladakh and its environment) and Bhutan, the theocratic state of the 'Brug-pa order. Under the influence of his scientific experiences he was deeply impressed by the works of Padma dkar-po (1526-1592) and by those of the letter's pupil, Suresamatibhadra. Here lies the explanation why, when asked by Csoma about Lomaism, Sans-rgyas phun-chogs mainly directed Csoma's interest toward the teachings of these two celebrities of the 'Brug-pa order. Returning to Western Tibet from his study tour, the Lama, however, soon took up politics, and to promote his political career around 1813 he married the widow of the prince of Zangle. Soon the Lama gained influence all over Ladakh. He conducted the correspondence of Ladakh with Central Tibet anu managed its diplomatic affairs. He was the adherent of a pro-English political tendency, which is shown by the fact that the minister (kolon) of Ladakh who was in contact with the agent of the British government, Moorcroft, directed Csoma to him. He seems, however, not to have been diverted from his monastic life by his marriage and political ambitions, since in the monasteries of Ladakh he was looked upon as a famous and learned monk. It was not only his political influence that brought him recognition but also his talent in medicine and Iiis perfection in the Lamaist learning. Csoma first of all took advantage; of the Lama's knowledge in linguistics, though lie rewarded him as a specialist in the field- of medicine find astrology. The fact that he made a round-trip of some months (starting in May, .1828) through British India, with Csoma's assistance sheds light on his inquiring mind. Csoma made mention of his Lama's useful help in all of his publications, sometimes calling himself his pupil. After Csoma's departure to Calcutta (when the Lama was 57 years old) we have no more information about "the Lama" though Csoma may possibly have kept up some kind of correspondence with him. Cf. L. Ligeti, T'oung Pao XXX (1933), pp. 26-36; E. Baktay, Körösi Csoma Sándor, Budapest 1962; T. Duka, Life and Works of Alexander Csoma de Kőrös, London 1885.