The ’dul ba or Vinaya corpus of the Kanjur delves into monastic discipline, covering the establishment of monastic laws and codes, guidelines for adherence, accounts of violations with corresponding penalties or means of amendment, and prescribed practices for renunciates on the path to liberation. The ’dul ba of the Trashigang Kanjur consists of 12 volumes, presented in a loose poti format and meticulously inscribed in uchen script using black ink on cream-colored Bhutanese handmade paper. The first page of each volume features a central illustration of a Buddha, while the second page is adorned with margin illustrations depicting the past lives of Buddha Shakyamuni and a stupa. Regarded as a sacred relic, this collection is carefully housed on traditional bookshelves within the Lama Lhakhang of the Dzong fortress. Each volume is wrapped in multiple layers of cloth, secured between two protective wooden boards, and tightly fastened with a string to ensure its preservation and reverence for future generations.
Extent: 12 volumes of manuscripts.
Condition of original material: Partially damaged by worms along the margins on all four sides.
Alternative calendar and date: Tibetan, Iron Snake Year
Original institution reference: 'Dul ba.
