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 Please see our Content Disclaimer regarding English terms in LYWA publications that may be outdated and should be considered in context.

Glossary terms for "Z"

All A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y Z

zen (Tib)

gzan (Wyl)

The upper robe of a monk or nun.

zhi dag (Tib)

gzhi bdag (Wyl)

Landlord; place owner. Tibetan Buddhism teaches that each place has associated with it a sentient being who considers that he owns it. Offerings are made to this being to request the temporary use of that place for, e.g., retreat.

Zong Rinpoche (1905–1984)

A powerful Gelugpa lama renowned for his wrathful aspect, who had impeccable knowledge of Tibetan Buddhist rituals, art and science.

Zopa Rinpoche, Kyabje Lama Thubten ((1945–2023))

Born in Thangme, near Mt. Everest, and recognized as the reincarnation of the Lawudo Lama, Kunsang Yeshe, Lama Zopa Rinpoche became the heart disciple of Lama Yeshe, who later established the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT). As spiritual director of the extensive network of centers, projects and services of the FPMT for almost forty years, Rinpoche’s philanthropic work has seen a proliferation of charitable projects and beneficial activities worldwide. Rinpoche showed the aspect of passing away on 13 April 2023.