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Reting Monastery
Reting Monastery (also spelled Radreng Monastery 热振寺 ) is one of the most historically significant Buddhist monasteries in central Tibet. Located in Lhünzhub County, Lhasa Prefecture, in the beautiful Reting Tsampo Valley north of Lhasa, the monastery is renowned as the birthplace of the Kadampa Buddhist tradition and an important monastery of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) School of Tibetan Buddhism.
Reting Monastery was founded in 1056 by Dromtönpa, the principal disciple of the great Indian Buddhist master Atisha (982–1054). After Atisha’s death, Dromtönpa brought some of his teacher’s relics to Tibet and established Reting Monastery as the main center of the Kadampa lineage. It became the first major monastery established during the revival of Tibetan Buddhism known as the Sarma (New Translation) period.
The Kadampa tradition emphasized ethical discipline, meditation, and the gradual path to enlightenment. Centuries later, Tsongkhapa (1357–1419) reformed the Kadampa teachings, creating the Gelug School, one of the most influential traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. As a result, Reting Monastery became an important Gelugpa institution and the traditional seat of the Reting Rinpoche lineage.
The Reting Rinpoches played a significant role in Tibetan religious and political history. Members of this lineage were traditionally considered among the candidates to serve as regents during periods when the Dalai Lama was too young to govern. The Reting Rinpoche served as regent during two important periods, from 1845 to 1855 and from 1933 to 1947.
Reting Monastery also has a special connection with the search for the 14th Dalai Lama. The Fifth Reting Rinpoche participated in the process of identifying the current Dalai Lama and later served as his senior tutor. His later years became involved in complex historical and political events in Tibet.
Like many Tibetan monasteries, Reting Monastery suffered severe damage during the Cultural Revolution. Many buildings and religious treasures were destroyed, and the monastery was largely abandoned. In recent decades, restoration efforts have allowed parts of the monastery to be rebuilt, preserving its importance as a center of Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
Surrounded by forests, mountains, and the peaceful landscape of northern Lhasa, Reting Monastery offers visitors a quieter and less crowded experience compared with the major monasteries in Lhasa city. Its ancient history, connection with Atisha and Tsongkhapa, and role in Tibetan Buddhism make it an important destination for those interested in Tibetan culture and spirituality.
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