Sogyal Rinpoche

Sogyal Rinpoche, born in Tibet in 1947, was a Tibetan Buddhist teacher and author who gained international recognition for his contributions to Buddhist literature. He was the founder of the Rigpa spiritual organization, which has centers around the world and was known for his teachings on the Tibetan Book of the Dead (Bardo Thodol) and Dzogchen, a profound Tibetan Buddhist meditation practice.

Sogyal Rinpoche's career in writing about Buddhism was highlighted by his best-selling book, "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying." This book provided a contemporary interpretation of the ancient Tibetan text, offering insights into death, dying, and the afterlife from a Buddhist perspective. It has become a classic in the field of spiritual literature, bringing Buddhist teachings on death and the nature of consciousness to a global audience.

While his writings have been influential, Sogyal Rinpoche's career was also marked by controversy and allegations of misconduct, which have led to discussions and debates within the Buddhist community. His teachings and writings on Buddhism, particularly on the topic of death and dying, continue to be studied and appreciated by many, even as his legacy remains complex and debated.

Age: 1947 - 2019

Most famous works:

• "The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying"