Shimanskaya, A. A. Kunga Dorje and his Book on Tibetan History ‘Debthar Marpo’

Abstract: ‘Debthar Marpo’ is a historical writing created by Kunga Dorje in Tibet the XIVth century. This book has never been translated to European languages and has been published only in the Tibetan language. Consequently, there are no comprehensive researches on the matter despite the fact that both Tibetan historiographers and European tibetologists have repeatedly underlined the importance of this source especially in terms of political history of Tibet and Central Asia. The article is devoted to Kunga Dorje’s personality and provides an insight into the political and cultural environment of that period. Undoubtedly, Kunga Dorje’s book is quite interesting for historians. This book has a complex structure and devoted to both political history of Tibet and history of Buddhist schools. Kunga Dorje starts with the description of life of Shakyamuni Buddha and touches upon the history of India and China. Particular parts of the book re devoted to Tangut and Mongolian people. Such a scheme is based on the concept developed by all Tibet historians and researchers of Buddha. Tibet is a heir and successor of India in expansion of the Teaching of Buddha.

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