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Tibetan Monks Debate Namgyal Monastery Dharamsala
Tibetan Monks Debate at Namgyal Monastery Within the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, is Namgyal, personal monastery of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The Debate Debate is an integral part of a Tibetan monk’s training, and is an effective means of expanding the mind, increasing mental sharpness, developing analytical capacity, and gaining internal clarity. There are two parties to the debate: a defender and a questioner, each with clear roles and strict rules of behavior which assure an orderly exchange of questions and answers. The defender is usually a novice, while the questioner is a more experienced debater. Debate Style The style of the debate follows a precisely choreographed routine beginning with a ritual invocation of Manjrushri, the boddhisattva of wisdom, in a loud high pitched tone. Then the questioner, who is standing, begins the questioning in a very low and barely audible voice. He bends gently forward toward the defender, who is sitting, as a sign of humility and respect. At this point, the questioner is wearing his robe in the customary style, with the left shoulder covered, and the right shoulder bare. These initial gestures and soft speech are part of a skillful strategy designed to bring about a false sense of security in his opponent. The defender presents his thesis. The questioner raises doubts. As the back and forth exchange of questions and answers progresses, the debate grows increasingly animated, impassioned, and physically intense, with plenty of forceful clapping and spirited verbal exchanges. If the questioner has been able to draw the defender into making errors and contradicting himself, the questioner wraps his upper robe around his waist, as a sign of his understanding and control. No longer bending forward, he stands tall and makes forceful sweeping gestures, clapping his hands loudly to stress the power and decisiveness of his arguments. Finally, after 2.5 hours, it all comes peacefully to an end.
Tibetan scholars say they love the intense physical and emotional demands of the debate, and that they miss it once their training is finished. Meaning of the Physical Gestures
Tibetan Monks Debate
After a day of experiencing the lively energy yet peaceful ambiance of the Namgyal Monastery, the Snow Crest Inn offers the ideal retreat. Retire to the comfort of your cozy room, relax on your private balcony and take in the panoramic view of the stunning Dhauladhar mountains. The Snow Crest Inn's tranquil atmosphere, beautiful decor, spacious accommodations, and knowledgeable and attentive staff, ensure that each guest's stay is pleasant and comfortable. The Snow Crest Inn is the perfect hotel for a truly memorable holiday experience. Experience all the Dharamsala attractions and things to do in and around this hill station resort and the beautiful Kangra Valley. Whether you're planning a weekend holiday or an extended stay, we look forward to welcoming you to our peaceful inn.
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Everyday from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM, you can see young Tibetan monks debate in the traditional Tibetan style embellished with hand clapping and emphatic gestures.
