H.E. Ling Rinpoche Shares Message on Passing of Professor Bob Thurman
A message from H.E. Ling Rinpoche:
It is with profound sadness that I learned of the passing of Professor Bob Thurman. His departure is a great loss not only to the Buddhist community, but especially to the Tibetan Buddhist world, where he was widely respected and deeply cherished.
Professor Thurman was among the first generation of Western scholars and practitioners to study Tibetan Buddhism in depth. He was blessed with the rare opportunity to receive teachings and guidance directly from His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and my predecessor, Kyabje Yongzin Ling Rinpoche,Inspired by their wisdom and compassion, he dedicated his life to the study, practice, preservation, and dissemination of the Buddha Dharma.
Throughout his life, Professor Thurman worked tirelessly to introduce the profound teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to countless people around the world. Through his scholarship, teaching, writing, and public engagement, he played a pivotal role in fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Buddha Dharma in the West. His efforts helped build bridges between cultures and traditions, benefiting innumerable students and seekers and contributing greatly to the flourishing of Tibetan Buddhism internationally.
As a devoted follower of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Professor Thurman wholeheartedly embraced His Holiness’s vision of promoting compassion, wisdom, nonviolence, and universal responsibility. He remained steadfast in his commitment to these values throughout his life and served as an inspiring example of how the Dharma can be integrated into both academic study and daily living.
Professor Thurman was also a deeply devoted disciple of His Holiness the 6th Kyabje Ling Rinpoche. He received his novice monk vows from my predecessor and maintained a close and heartfelt connection with the Ling Linage throughout his life. On a personal level, I had the good fortune of knowing him from my childhood, and over the years he became a dear friend. His warmth, devotion, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to the Dharma left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His passing leaves a great void in my heart and in the hearts of countless others.
I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family, students, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. May you find comfort in the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of learning, compassion, and dedicated service to the Buddha Dharma.
I offer my sincere prayers for Professor Thurman’s swift and auspicious rebirth, and may the merits of his life’s work continue to benefit sentient beings for generations to come.
With prayers,
Ling Rinpoche
