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Glossary

This glossary contains an alphabetical list of Buddhist terms that you may find on this website. Many of the terms now include phoneticized Sanskrit (Skt) as well as two forms of Tibetan—the phonetic version (Tib), which is a guide to pronunciation, and transliteration using the Wylie method (Wyl). Search for the term you want by entering it in the search box or browse through the listing by clicking on the letters below. Please see our Content Disclaimer regarding English terms in LYWA publications that may be outdated and should be considered in context.

Kurukulla (Skt)

A female tantric deity associated with attracting positive energy and attaining positive goals, red, standing on one leg in a dancing posture and holding a flowery bow and arrow; an aspect of Tara.

kusha (Skt)

Long-stranded grass used under the retreat seat during tantric initiations, and for making brooms in India. Shakyamuni Buddha made a seat out of kusha grass when he meditated under the bodhi tree at Bodhgaya and attained enlightenment.

Kushinagar

The place in north India where the Buddha died and was cremated. The site of the 152-metre (500-foot) Maitreya statue to be built by the FPMT.

Kyabje (Tib)

skyabs rje (Wyl)

Literally, lord of refuge. A title of respect.

labrang (Tib)

bla brang (Wyl)

Usually the lama’s residence within a monastery, from which his affairs are conducted.

lama (Tib)

guru (Skt); bla ma (Wyl)

A spiritual guide or teacher. One who shows a disciple the path to liberation and enlightenment. See guru.