Early Life and Spiritual Beginnings
Dezhung Rinpoche was born on February 26, 1906, in Taklung ,Tibet, was the eldest of six children. His father, Namgyel Dorje, a doctor and former monk, and his mother, Pema Chodzom, created a nurturing environment for him. At the young age of two, Dezhung Rinpoche received blessings from the great Nyingma master, Jo Mipam Gyatso, marking the start of his spiritual journey. Soon after, his parents placed him under the care of his paternal uncle, Ngawang Nyima, a monk living in retreat. This decision proved to be pivotal in shaping his future path.
For the next five years, Dezhung Rinpoche lived in isolation with his uncle, helping him tend to plants while receiving early education in spiritual practices. By the age of six, he received his first major initiation—the Cakrasaṃvara initiation—and took novice vows. At eleven, he began studying advanced Buddhist philosophy under the guidance of Gaton Ngawang Lekpa, one of his most influential teachers. His life and teachings are beautifully captured in A Saint in Seattle by David Jackson, which offers a deep insight into his legacy.
Recognized as the Third Dezhung Rinpoche
At a young age, Dezhung Rinpoche was recognized as the reincarnation of Lungrik Nyima, the Second Dezhung Rinpoche. The recognition was initiated by Drubtob Sanggye Rabten, a disciple of Lungrik Nyima, who identified Dezhung Rinpoche as his teacher's rebirth. The confirmation came through consultation with the Thirty-Ninth Sakya Trizin, Drakshul Trinle Rinchen. At just seventeen, Dezhung Rinpoche was officially enthroned as the Third Dezhung Rinpoche at Tharlam Monastery.
Study in Derge
In the spring of 1924, Dezhung Rinpoche traveled to Derge to further his studies, particularly in Sanskrit. Despite opposition from his family, he learned from esteemed teachers like Khunu Lama Tenzin Gyaltsen and Jamyang Gyaltsen, covering subjects such as Buddhist philosophy, grammar, and literature. Though he made great strides in his studies, his teacher, Gaton Ngawang Lekpa, expressed disappointment in 1928 when Dezhung Rinpoche had not yet completed his Sanskrit studies.
Visit to Dezhung Monastery and Pilgrimage
In 1928, Dezhung Rinpoche visited Dezhung Monastery for the first time, where he received full ordination from Gaton Ngawang Lekpa and Dezhung Anjam. It was also at this time that he was officially recognized as Lungrik Nyima’s reincarnation. He continued his spiritual journey, studying and teaching under the guidance of various teachers, and actively participating in important religious ceremonies.
Later Life and Responsibilities
Throughout the 1940s, Dezhung Rinpoche took on a prominent role in the leadership of the Sakya tradition, guiding students, teaching, and continuing his own studies. However, in 1950, when the Chinese invaded in Tibet, Dezhung Rinpoche and his family fled to India in 1959.
Journey to India and Life in the United States
After arriving in India in 1959, Dezhung Rinpoche met with other Tibetan leaders, including the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, and began laying the groundwork for his future endeavors. In 1960, he and his family moved to Seattle, United States, where he quickly became involved with Tibetan Studies scholars like E. Gene Smith and David Jackson. In Seattle, Dezhung Rinpoche shared his deep knowledge of Tibetan Buddhism, especially focusing on Avalokiteśvara practices and other key Buddhist teachings. He also founded the Sakya Tekchen Choling center, which later became Sakya Monastery.
Establishing Tharlam Monastery in Nepal
In the 1980s, Dezhung Rinpoche turned his attention to rebuilding Tharlam Monastery in Nepal. After purchasing land in the Boudhanath area, he led efforts to raise funds and gather resources to restore the monastery. The project culminated in 1993 with the consecration of the new Tharlam Monastery, which became an important center for the Sakya tradition in the diaspora.
Return to Nepal and Passing
Dezhung Rinpoche returned to Nepal in 1986, despite efforts by Dagchen Rinpoche to encourage him to stay in Seattle and further develop Sakya Monastery. At the age of 80, Dezhung Rinpoche continued his religious work, overseeing ceremonies such as the consecration of the Maitreya Temple. However, in 1987, after falling ill, he passed away on May 16, 1987, while in a meditative state known as tukdam. His cremation was conducted by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, and stūpas containing his ashes were erected at both Tharlam Monastery and Sakya Monastery in Seattle.
Recognition of His Reincarnation
In 1993, the Sakya Trizin identified Dezhung Rinpoche’s reincarnation in a child named Sonam Wangdu, who was born in Seattle to a Tibetan father and an American mother. In March 1994, Sonam Wangdu was enthroned as the new Dezhung Rinpoche, continuing the legacy of his esteemed predecessor.
Through his profound teachings, leadership, and dedication to preserving the Sakya tradition, Dezhung Rinpoche’s legacy endures, both in the lives of his disciples and through the institutions he helped establish.
