☸ Tibetan Buddhist Glossary

Karma refers to the universal law of cause and effect, governing the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth in Tibetan Buddhism. According to this principle, an individual's actions, intentions, and emotions create imprints on their consciousness, influencing their future experiences and circumstances. By understanding and working with karma, practitioners can develop a greater sense of responsibility and awareness, ultimately breaking free from the cycle of suffering and achieving liberation.

A kata is a traditional Tibetan scarf, usually white, that is offered as a symbol of respect and gratitude. It is often given to teachers, monastics, or other respected individuals as a way of showing appreciation for their guidance and wisdom. The kata represents the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of cultivating positive relationships.

A Khenpo is a title given to a senior monk or scholar in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It is equivalent to a PhD in Buddhist studies and is awarded to those who have completed a rigorous course of study and have demonstrated a deep understanding of the teachings. Khenpos are highly respected for their wisdom and are often sought out as teachers and advisors.

A kora is a sacred circular path that surrounds a temple, stupa, or other holy site in Tibetan Buddhism. Practitioners walk around the kora as a form of meditation and devotion, often reciting mantras or prayers. The act of circumambulation is believed to accumulate merit and bring the practitioner closer to enlightenment. By walking the kora, one symbolically navigates the path to enlightenment.

Kriya tantra is a class of tantric teachings and practices in Tibetan Buddhism, emphasizing ritual purification and the development of a pure, divine body. Kriya tantra practices involve the use of mantras, mudras, and visualizations to transform the practitioner's ordinary perception into a divine, enlightened one. This class of tantra is considered a preliminary step towards more advanced tantric practices, helping practitioners to develop the necessary discipline and devotion for higher spiritual attainments.