Light of Berotsana

The mission of Light of Berotsana is to further the translation, preservation, and study of Buddhist literature and the philosophical heritage of Tibet at the highest standards of excellence.

In 1959, tens of thousands of Tibetans fled their homeland seeking refuge from violence, oppression, and annihilation. Though in great danger, many took precious moments to pack sacred texts, which they then carried with them as they walked over the Himalayan mountains to India. Limited to a few items, often they chose books over food. Such cherished words must warrant our attention and be preserved and disseminated in as many languages as possible.

At Light of Berotsana, our focus is to translate from the Tibetan into English texts on Buddhism and Tibetan culture and, in general, to encourage the translations of these texts into many languages. Because no one currently speaks the language spoken by the Buddha, without translation, what would we know of his teachings? Without translation, how can we take those precious words to heart, practice for the benefit of all sentient beings, and become enlightened? Without translation of the poetry and epic tales of Tibet, how will we understand the rich Tibetan culture that developed over the centuries?

To that end, the Light of Berotsana Translation Group was formed in the spring of 1999 by Lama Choying Namgyal, Sangye Khandro, and Jules B. Levinson with the view to further the study and preservation of the vast Tibetan Buddhist literary tradition. Currently, Lama Chonam and Sangye Khandro are the primary translators associated with Light of Berotsana. As we grow, we will invite additional qualified translators and teachers to join in our work. From our own experience, we know the road leading to expertise to be both long and demanding; so with a view to the future, we presently devote a significant portion of our time to teaching the Tibetan language—as well as the art of translation itself—to aspiring translators.

Primarily, our translations include the most pertinent texts taught retreats of the Nyingma Tibetan Buddhist tradition. These commentaries and treatises serve as foundations for the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan Buddhist tradition, an erudite and exacting system of inquiry into the nature of reality and the acquisition of knowledge. Most of these Dzogchen texts, teachings and liturgies are restricted material. Sangye Khandro offers insight on 'Why Some Texts are Restricted'

As Tibetan Buddhist studies gain prevalence outside of Tibet and especially throughout the West, it is necessary to translate the texts that will thoroughly elucidate the philosophy, knowledge, and ideals that have guided Buddhist study throughout its history. Such education rests upon reliable translations that will support sustained study. The Light of Berotsana Translation Group seeks to bring such study within the reach of English-speaking students with precise, inspiring, and accurate translations of a full range of significant texts. In selecting texts from the course of studies followed at eminent schools for Buddhist learning, we will emphasize depth of exposition alongside relevance for contemporary scholars and students. At present, we are focusing upon the work of illustrious Tibetan scholars such as omniscient Lonchenpa (1308-1363), the vidyadhara Jigme Lingpa (1730-1798), Dodrupchen Jigme Tenpa’i Nyima (1865-1929), Heruka Dudjom Lingpa (1835-1904), Ju Mipham Rinpoche (1846-1912), Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche, Jigdrel Yeshe Dorje (1904-1987), and Kyabje Dungsai Thrinley Norbu Rinpoche.

We humbly seek to provide the resources necessary for those who speak and read the English language to immerse themselves in the study of Buddhist literature and Tibetan civilization, and we are intent upon bringing the many treasures of Tibet’s literary heritage within reach of the global community.