Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen

Dolpopa Sherab Gyaltsen (1292–1361) was a Tibetan Buddhist master and the founder of the Jonang school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Background

Dolpopa was born in the Dolpo region of Nepal. He studied at various monasteries and mastered the scriptures of both the Sarvastivada and Mahayana traditions. After extensive study and meditation, he developed the unique philosophical system known as zhentong (other-emptiness).

Spiritual Contribution

Dolpopa articulated the zhentong philosophy, which held that the ultimate reality (Buddha-nature) is not empty of its own nature but is empty of adventitious defilements. This contrasted with the rangtong (self-emptiness) view of the Madhyamaka tradition. He composed the Mountain Dharma (Ri Chos) as his magnum opus.

Legacy and Impact

Dolpopa’s zhentong philosophy became the defining characteristic of the Jonang school and influenced Tibetan Buddhist thought for centuries. Although suppressed during certain periods, his teachings have experienced a revival in modern times and continue to be studied and practiced.

Verification Notes

• Founder of the Jonang school of Tibetan Buddhism
• Author of Mountain Dharma (Ri Chos)
• Developer of zhentong (other-emptiness) philosophy