From Northern India 2500 years ago, the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni spread throughout Asia. As the dharma took root in different cultures — in China, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Tibet and other countries — it found new forms of expression. From among the many different techniques and teachings given by the Buddha, those which were most compatible with the minds of people in these new lands took prominence.

The Buddha's teachings were taken from India to Tibet and preserved there before the decline and eventual disappearance of Buddhism in its birthplace. The transfusion of religious ideas continued over a period of hundreds of years, thanks to the devotion and energy of Tibetan people and their kings and the kindness of Indian masters like Shantarakshita, Kamalashila and Atisha who journeyed to Tibet to convey the pure essence of the teachings. This sustained dialogue meant that Tibet received the precious teachings on mantra. Centuries of isolation kept these teachings safe in Tibet until the events of the 20th century; now teachers have dispersed throughout the world, taking a pure and authentic lineage of teachings with them.

Geshe Tashi Tsering belongs to the Gelug order of Tibetan Buddhism. It was established by a Tibetan master, Lama Tsong Khapa, who was born in the 14th century. Je Tsong Khapa reinvigorated the monastic system and reasserted the vital importance of study.

Read more about monks and nuns in Tibetan Buddhism

As Geshe Tashi Tsering often reminds his Western students, one must have correct understanding, developed through study, reflection and addressing doubts. Once that firm basis is established, then one can meditate effectively on those topics in order to gain deeper insight on an experiential level. Otherwise, if one if unprepared or confused, no amount of sitting in meditation will produce any beneficial result.

Read more about the importance of study.