The ’dul ba or Vinaya section of the Kanjur explores the principles of monastic discipline, outlining the establishment of monastic laws and codes, guidelines for proper conduct, accounts of transgressions with corresponding remedies, and prescribed practices for renunciates on the path to liberation. The ’dul ba of the Mongar Dzong Kanjur consists of 12 volumes, presented in the traditional loose poti format. Each volume is meticulously inscribed in uchen script using black ink on cream-colored Bhutanese handmade paper. The first two pages of each volume feature intricate illustrations: the first page portrays the Buddha at the center, while the second page often depicts scenes from the previous lives of Buddha Shakyamuni, as well as a stupa along the margins. An additional opening page, known as the tog, is elegantly decorated with gold ink on dark blue paper, showcasing a central illustration of the Buddha. Regarded as a sacred relic, this collection is carefully preserved on traditional bookshelves within the Sangay Lhakhang of the Dzong fortress. Each volume is wrapped in multiple layers of cloth, secured between two protective wooden boards, and tightly fastened with string, reflecting the profound reverence and meticulous care devoted to its preservation for future generations.
Extent: 12 volumes of manuscripts.
