Spiritual Identity Formation and Learning in Tibetan Buddhist Communities: A Qualitative Study on Group Rituals in the Nyingma Tradition
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| Title: | Spiritual Identity Formation and Learning in Tibetan Buddhist Communities: A Qualitative Study on Group Rituals in the Nyingma Tradition |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Nina Yang, Prathabjai Suwanthada |
| Source: | Journal of Education and Learning. 2026 15(2):152-159. |
| Availability: | Canadian Center of Science and Education. 1595 Sixteenth Ave Suite 301, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3N9 Canada. Tel: 416-642-2606; Fax: 416-642-2608; e-mail: jel@ccsenet.org; Web site: http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/jel |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 8 |
| Publication Date: | 2026 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Descriptors: | Foreign Countries, Buddhism, Group Unity, Ceremonies, Cultural Activities, Sense of Belonging, Religious Factors, Informal Education, Metacognition |
| Geographic Terms: | China |
| ISSN: | 1927-5250 1927-5269 |
| Abstract: | This study examines how spiritual identity is formed and transmitted through ritual-based learning within Tibetan Buddhist communities, with a specific focus on the Nyingma tradition. Drawing on qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews with monastic and lay practitioners, the research explores how communal rituals--particularly Dharma assemblies--serve as informal educational spaces where participants engage in embodied practices, symbolic communication, and collective memory. Central to the study is the role of Dzogchen meditation and teacher-disciple interactions in facilitating spiritual transformation and reinforcing group identity. The findings reveal that these rituals foster a shared spiritual consciousness, cultivate a sense of belonging, and function as dynamic sites of cultural learning and identity formation. By framing these religious gatherings as educational processes, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how spiritual communities sustain cohesion, transmit cultural values, and support lifelong learning beyond formal institutional settings. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1507228 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This study examines how spiritual identity is formed and transmitted through ritual-based learning within Tibetan Buddhist communities, with a specific focus on the Nyingma tradition. Drawing on qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews with monastic and lay practitioners, the research explores how communal rituals--particularly Dharma assemblies--serve as informal educational spaces where participants engage in embodied practices, symbolic communication, and collective memory. Central to the study is the role of Dzogchen meditation and teacher-disciple interactions in facilitating spiritual transformation and reinforcing group identity. The findings reveal that these rituals foster a shared spiritual consciousness, cultivate a sense of belonging, and function as dynamic sites of cultural learning and identity formation. By framing these religious gatherings as educational processes, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how spiritual communities sustain cohesion, transmit cultural values, and support lifelong learning beyond formal institutional settings. |
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| ISSN: | 1927-5250 1927-5269 |
