The Choedepung Monastery archive holds an invaluable collection of manuscripts central to the temple’s sacred religious heritage. Regarded as the sungten, or embodiment of the Buddha’s teachings, this archive is revered as a holy object of worship. The collection spans a wide range of texts, including biographies, literary works, liturgical manuals, and philosophical treatises. These manuscripts are presented in loose poti style across various volumes, with diverse sizes and formats. While most are xylographically printed, some volumes are handwritten in uchen and ume script. Of particular significance is a collection of works by Pema Lingpa, printed from 16th-century woodblocks carved at Kunzangdra in Bumthang. Although available in other temples, this copy is exceptionally well-preserved, with no damage. All texts are meticulously inscribed in black ink on cream-colored paper, showcasing the traditional craftsmanship of Bhutan. The archive, preserved as a sacred relic, is housed within the temple’s highest shrine, which serves as a temporary library for the monks. The manuscripts are stored in traditional bookshelves, carefully wrapped in cloth and securely fastened with string. These protective measures reflect the deep reverence and care dedicated to this spiritual treasure.
Extent: 1 collection of manuscripts containing 143 volumes.
Custodial history: The archive originally belonged to Lama Yeshi, the founder of Chumigpang Lhakhang. After his passing, ownership of both the archive and the temple was transferred to his relatives. In 2012, the Chumigpang village community, along with Lama Yeshi’s family, offered the temple to Tang Rinpoche, who renamed it Choedeypung and formally established a monastery there. Since then, ownership of the archive has been held by Choedeypung Monastery under the guidance of Tang Rinpoche.
Arrangement: There is no systematic arrangement.
Author(s)/Creator(s): Most of the texts in the Zhuri Lhakhang archive seem to have been created during the time of Lama Yeshi. Additionally, the archive contains some older block prints and manuscripts that appear to date back to before the 18th century.
