The modern technology meets the tradition

The 600-year-old Gandan Monastery near Lhasa is thriving with the help of modern conveniences and technology.

Sitting on a hilltop at an altitude of 3,800 meters, 57 km east of Lhasa, Gandan Monastery looks splendid, with its towering buildings of bright red and white. Built six centuries ago by Tsongkhapa, founder of the Gelugpa, or Yellow Hat Sect, tradition and modernity creates a satisfying life for monks here.

Scripture study, an important Tibetan Buddhist practice, is one of the traditions that continues to thrive.

Gandan Monastery in Tibet autonomous region has two Dratsangs, or Buddhist colleges, and its 143 monks are divided into classes of different levels.

For two consecutive years, monks here have won first place in the annual test for the Geshe Lharampa degree, which represents the highest level of attainment for monks studying the scriptures.

Lhosanglungrig, 35, recalls with pride the moment when he won first place in 2011. Since he arrived in Gandan Monastery at 11, he has studied scriptures with two famous mentors.

"Yet, I'm still an ordinary monk. The study of Buddhadharma is a lifelong journey. It's as boundless as an ocean," repeats the monk, sitting on his bed and turning his prayer beads continuously with his hands.

He smiles occasionally and talks in a low voice. A small desk beside him is piled with scripture books.

For Lhosanglungrig, who still attends daily scripture classes, the only change in his life since winning the Geshe Lharampa test is studying more esoteric Buddhist theories.

Yet Lhosanglungrig and his parents are satisfied. According to tradition they offered sacrifices and donations to the monastery to give thanks for his attainment.

From Tibet Online