The rGyud, or tantric section of the Kanjur, contains a vast array of tantric texts attributed to the historical Buddha or other forms of Buddha. These texts delve into esoteric practices such as yoga, deity visualization, mantras, mudras, postures, mandalas, and meditation, forming the basis of the syncretic tantric traditions. Presented in 18 volumes within this collection, it adopts a loose poti format, with the content inscribed in uchen script using black ink on cream-colored Bhutanese handmade paper. The first page features a central illustration of the Buddha, while the second page includes depictions of the previous lives of Buddha Shakyamuni and a stupa along the margins. An additional opening page, known as the tog, is elegantly adorned with gold ink on dark blue paper, featuring a central illustration of the Buddha. Regarded as a sacred relic, the collection is housed on traditional bookshelves within the Lama Lhakhang of the Dzong fortress. Each volume is carefully wrapped in multiple layers of cloth, sandwiched between two wooden boards, and securely fastened with a belt, ensuring its preservation and continued reverence for generations to come.
Extent: 18 volumes of manuscripts.
Original institution reference: rGyud sde.
