The 9th Panchen Lama (1883-1937): Sino-Tibetan Relations at Stake
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Fabienne Jagou, Le 9e Panchen Lama (1883-1937).Enjeu des relations sino-tibétaines
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Paris, École française d'Extrême-Orient, coll. « Monographie, 191 », 2004, 436 p.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Isabelle Charleux
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Fabienne Jagou, Le 9e Panchen Lama (1883-1937).Enjeu des relations sino-tibétaines
Year: 2005 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.3165
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Fabienne Jagou's work, Le 9 e Panchen Lama (1883-1937). Enjeu des relations sino-tibétaines, published by the École française d'Extrême-Orient, presents a comprehensive examination of the complex relationships between Tibet and China in the early 20th century through the lens of the enigmatic figure of the 9th Panchen Lama, Blo-bzang Chos-kyi Nyi-ma. The author conducts extensive archival research from various sources, including Tibetan, Chinese, and Western documentation, allowing her to explore the political and spiritual dimensions of the Panchen Lama's life and the historical context of his actions. The book stands as a crucial reference for understanding the dynamics of Sino-Tibetan relations, particularly during a tumultuous period marked by social upheaval and colonial interests.
The Duality of the Panchen Lama: Traitor or Visionary?
One of the central themes of Jagou's work is the contentious debate surrounding the character and choices of the 9th Panchen Lama. His abrupt departure from his monastery in 1923, which can be perceived as either a flight or a strategic decision, raises critical questions about his role in Tibetan politics. Jagou examines whether the Panchen Lama was a traitor collaborating with Chinese interests or a visionary seeking to modernize Tibet in the face of looming threats. The author presents evidence that suggests the Panchen Lama was indeed navigating complex political waters: he sought financial support from Mongolian patrons to pay an unfair tax imposed by Lhasa, illustrating that his maneuvers were not solely driven by personal ambition but rather a response to pressing economic realities.
The Complex Nature of the Panchen Lama’s Political Relationships
Jagou delves into the intricate relationships between the Panchen Lama and various political actors, including the Dalai Lama and the Chinese government. Despite his intentions to mediate and promote peace, the Panchen Lama’s loyalty to the Republic of China did not afford him the respect from Chinese leaders that he anticipated. His efforts to advocate for reforms in Tibet were met with skepticism, underscoring the challenges he faced as a religious leader engaged in temporal power struggles. The work also sheds light on the ambivalence and manipulation he experienced from both Tibetan authorities and Chinese officials, painting a nuanced portrayal of a leader caught in a web of political intrigue and spiritual obligation.
Conclusion
Jagou's Le 9 e Panchen Lama (1883-1937) offers significant insights into the political and religious history of early 20th century Tibet and its relationship with China. Through rigorous research and critical examination of diverse sources, the author poses challenging questions about the motivations and decisions of the 9th Panchen Lama, contributing to a deeper understanding of the historical context of Sino-Tibetan relations. While the work contains minor errors and omissions, it remains a vital resource for scholars interested in the interplay of religion and politics in this pivotal era, encouraging readers to consider the complexities of leadership and the enduring impact of historical figures on national narratives.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main subject of Fabienne Jagou's book?
The book focuses on the 9th Panchen Lama and his role in Sino-Tibetan relations during the early 20th century, exploring his enigmatic life, political influence, and the complexities of modernizing Tibet.
What type of sources did the author use in her research?
Jagou utilized a wide range of sources, including archival documents, contemporary press articles, and testimonies from Tibetans, along with hagiographies and biographical works, to construct a multifaceted view of the 9th Panchen Lama.
What challenges did the author face while researching Chinese archives?
Researching Chinese archives was difficult due to governmental suspicion towards Western researchers on sensitive subjects, coupled with the often complex and challenging nature of the documents found.
How does the book portray the character of the 9th Panchen Lama?
The book presents the 9th Panchen Lama as a complex figure—idealistic yet indecisive, manipulated by various political entities, yet genuinely seeking to modernize Tibet and secure its welfare.
What additional resources does the book provide for readers?
The book includes useful appendices like timelines, organizational charts, glossaries, and maps, which help explain the political context, key terms, and the geographical aspects of the 9th Panchen Lama's life.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “The 9th Panchen Lama (1883-1937): Sino-Tibetan Relations at Stake”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) Tibetan:
The Tibetan culture is intrinsically linked to Tibetan Buddhism, which shapes the beliefs and practices in Central Tibet, influencing spiritual leaders like the Panchen Lama.
2) Lama:
A Lama represents a spiritual teacher or Buddhist master in Tibetan Buddhism, embodying the teachings of the Gelugpa school, including figures like the Panchen Lama.
3) Panchen (Pänchen, pan chen):
The Panchen Lama is a prominent title within Tibetan Buddhism, representing a line of reincarnated spiritual leaders, crucial in the religious and political landscape of Tibet.
4) Tibet:
Tibet is a geographically and culturally distinct region known for its rich Buddhist traditions, with major monasteries in Central Tibet, such as Tashilunpo, home to the Panchen Lama.
5) China:
China's historical engagement with Tibet has shaped Sino-Tibetan relations, particularly during the political endeavors of figures like the 9th Panchen Lama who sought Chinese support.
6) Religion:
Religion in Tibet predominantly revolves around Tibetan Buddhism, which deeply impacts the social dynamics and influences historical figures like the Panchen Lama and Dalai Lama.
7) Book:
The book by Fabienne Jagou provides a comprehensive examination of the Panchen Lama's life, contributing significantly to scholarly discourse on Sino-Tibetan relations and the interplay of politics.
8) Dalai Lama:
The Dalai Lama is another key figure in Tibetan Buddhism, representing a central religious authority and often viewed in political opposition to the Panchen Lama during historical conflicts.
9) India:
India plays a crucial role in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly as a refuge for Tibetan exiles, including those who preserved the memory of the 9th Panchen Lama.
10) Paris:
Paris is referenced as the location of the École française d'Extrême-Orient, where significant research on Tibetan studies, including the Panchen Lama, has been conducted.
11) Central Tibet:
Central Tibet is where key historical events involving the Panchen Lama unfolded, serving as the heart of Tibetan spirituality and governance, especially relating to Lhasa.
12) Buddhism (Buddhist tradition):
Buddhist traditions form the core of Tibetan identity, influencing political leaders like the Panchen Lama, who navigated the complexities of Sino-Tibetan politics through Buddhist ideals.
13) Lead:
To lead within the religious context, figures like the Panchen Lama exemplify the role of spiritual leadership in Tibetan Buddhism, guiding followers amid socio-political challenges.
14) chos:
[see source text or glossary: #chos#]
15) Environment:
The political environment in early 20th century Tibet significantly shaped the actions of the Panchen Lama, who had to navigate external pressures from China and internal conflicts.
16) Politics:
Politics intertwine deeply with religion in Tibet, as evidenced by the Panchen Lama's efforts to mediate political situations while promoting Buddhist principles amid Sino-Tibetan tensions.
17) Gelugpa:
The Gelugpa school of Tibetan Buddhism is essential in understanding the religious lineage of the Panchen Lama, reflecting particular ideologies and practices within Tibetan culture.
18) Lineage:
Lineage is central to the role of the Panchen Lama, emphasizing the importance of reincarnated masters in maintaining spiritual continuity and authority over Tibetan Buddhism.
19) Wealth:
The wealth of institutions like Tashilunpo monastery influenced the Panchen Lama's decisions, particularly in seeking financial support from Chinese and Mongolian sources for Tibetan projects.
20) Winter:
In the winter of 1923, the Panchen Lama embarked on a pivotal journey to China, which raised critical questions about his motivations and the political context he faced at the time.
21) Secret (Secrecy, Secretly):
[see source text or glossary: #Secret#]
22) Lhasa:
Lhasa, as the administrative center of Tibet, is crucial to the narrative of the Panchen Lama’s life and his interactions with the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government.
23) Doubt:
Doubt arises in the assessment of the Panchen Lama's actions as either treachery or political foresight, influencing interpretations of his legacy in Sino-Tibetan relations.
24) Death:
The death of the Panchen Lama in China marks a significant moment in Tibetan history, as it left unresolved questions about his legacy and influence on future Sino-Tibetan relations.
25) Ocean:
[see source text or glossary: #Ocean#]
26) Peace:
The Panchen Lama’s attempts to negotiate peace and understanding between different political factions highlight the complex interplay of religion and politics in Tibetan society.
27) Error:
An error in the photographic plates of the book underscores the complexities of representation in Tibetan studies, especially regarding the identification of the Panchen Lama.
28) Snow:
[see source text or glossary: #Snow#]
29) Amdo (a mdo):
[see source text or glossary: #Amdo#]
30) Kham (khams, Khaam):
[see source text or glossary: #Kham#]