| This thesis examines the confluence of two critical terms in Tibetan Buddhist discourses, compassion (Thugs-rje), and consummation (rDzogs-pa), as they were perceived in dynamic symbiosis by the 12th-century Treasure recoverer Nyang-ral nyi-ma `od-zer (1124–1196 C.E.) and his reincarnate successor, Guru Chos-kyi dbang-phyug (1212–1270 C.E.). Using both hagiographic and doctrinal texts, the thesis brings to light the intimate continuities between the theological endeavors of these two figures, and in so doing, presents an early and crucial phase of the generation of an indigenized deity cult centered around Mahākarunika-Avalokiteśvara (Thugs-rje chen-po sPyan-ras-gzigs). This tradition of veneration was to become part and parcel of not only the religious ethos of Tibetan Buddhists, but also of the historical identity of ethnically Tibetan peoples. |
