Geshe Tenzin Zopa

Geshe Zopa is an accomplished Buddhist master and extremely popular teacher, fluent in English, and with a contemporary approach. Geshe-la’s enthusiasm and warmth capture the hearts of all who attend his teachings. His humble manner, gentle humour and clear and topical explanations of Buddhist philosophy engage everyone who attend his teachings.

Geshe Zopa is featured in the 2008 documentary film Unmistaken Child, which follows his search for the reincarnation of his beloved master, Geshe Lama Konchog. He was born in Nepal, and become a monk at age nine. As a child he studied Tibetan language, English, Nepali, art, lama dance, ritual, puja, and Buddhist philosophy. He also did a 6-month retreat with Geshe Lama Konchog back in the cave in Tsum.

He was the top student in debate, writing, and memorization at Sera Je, and he always ranked among the top five students out of more than 5000 monks. In 2007 he completed his studies and graduated as one of the youngest Geshes (equivalent to a PhD or Doctor of Divinity) in Tibetan Buddhism. In his youth he skipped four grades, and the Dalai Lama let him take his final Buddhist exams four years ahead of schedule.

He speaks fluent English, Tibetan, Nepali, and Hindi, and a little Mandarin.