The Dharma-Gaia Foundation, in collaboration with the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), announces the online course “Introduction to the Classical Tibetan Language: Reading Tibetan Buddhist Texts”. This course is aimed at all people interested in exploring and deepening this classical language, which is essential for the study of Tibetan Buddhist texts. It will be taught by Professor Ferrán Mestanza García, an expert in Tibetan language and culture with a long history in teaching.
Tibetan Buddhism is one of the most influential and richest cultural traditions in Asia. Originating in Tibet, it has expanded over the centuries, becoming a fundamental pillar of culture and spirituality in the region, from Tibet itself to areas such as Nepal, Bhutan, Mongolia and parts of India, and has left a deep mark on diverse communities and cultures. In addition, in recent decades, Tibetan Buddhism has gained a notable presence in the West, where it has significantly influenced meditation practices, well-being and contemporary spirituality.
This course will allow you to delve into the richness of the Tibetan cultural tradition by studying its classical language and reading fundamental texts of Tibetan Buddhism, developing language skills, and understanding in greater depth the key concepts and ideas of this important Asian tradition. The Autonomous University of Barcelona has been recognized as the best Spanish university in the QS World University Rankings 2024.
Course Description
The course “Introduction to the Classical Tibetan Language: Reading Tibetan Buddhist Texts” allows students to immerse themselves in the universe of this language through the reading of selected Tibetan Buddhist texts, combining presentations on Tibetan writing and grammar with the analysis of key concepts of Tibetan Buddhism.
The methodology, implemented through synchronous online classes, provides an overview of the origins of the Tibetan language and writing, and studies in depth capital writing (dbu can) and the phonetics of the syllabic alphabet, together with basic elements of grammar, Buddhist vocabulary and the Wylie transliteration system. In addition, examples from classical texts are used to explain fundamental concepts of Tibetan Buddhism.
The sessions include practical exercises that delve into the linguistic, philosophical and cultural aspects of classical Tibetan. Through this course, students will develop competencies that will allow them to better understand the content of study materials, identify the fundamental relevance of classical Tibetan in its historical and linguistic context, use the knowledge acquired to interpret essential concepts of Buddhism in texts translated from Tibetan Buddhism, and relate terms in classical Tibetan to key concepts of Tibetan Buddhism to understand their philosophical dimension.
Practical Information
Language and scope:
It is taught in Spanish, and is aimed at students and the general public interested in the subject.
Duration:
It will last 25 teaching hours (4 ECTS credits), distributed in two weekly one-hour sessions through the virtual campus.
Dates and times:
It will be held from April 7 to July 3, 2026, on Tuesdays and Fridays from 17:00 to 18:00 (Barcelona time, Spain), coinciding with the morning in Latin America, making it easier for students from this region to participate.
Teams and UAB Virtual Campus
The classes will be held in a virtual format on the TEAMS platform, and on the Virtual Campus they will have access to study materials, resources and information on related activities.
Enrollment
A maximum of 30 places are offered, to be filled in strict order of enrollment.
The tuition fee is 120€.
Admission requirement:
The only requirement to be admitted is to have completed the secondary education level.
Certifications
At the end of the course, a certificate of achievement will be awarded to participants who successfully complete it, backed by the Autonomous University of Barcelona, which can be a valuable addition to their academic and professional curriculum. The cost of this certificate is not included in the tuition fee.
Academic Direction:
Gustavo Pita Céspedes
Daniel Millet Gil
About the instructor:
Ferrán Mestanza i García, in addition to having obtained the Diploma in Advanced Studies (DEA) in Higher Asian Studies from the Sorbonne University, has in his academic training a Degree in Foreign Languages, Literatures and Civilizations, specializing in Tibetan Language, from the University of Paris III, and a Degree in Humanities, specializing in Thought, from the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (Barcelona). His extensive training together with his experience as a teacher of classical Tibetan since 2008 ensures students a qualified and pleasant orientation throughout the course to achieve a deep understanding of this language and its cultural context.
Course syllabus
Introduction to the classical Tibetan language.
Basic concepts of classical Tibetan terminology.
Foundations of classical Tibetan grammar.
Overview of Buddhist literature in classical Tibetan.
Reading and analysis of original texts.
Record:
Find here the link to the registration form (available on the UAB website):
Responsible centers:
Faculty of Translation and Interpretation, Department of East Asian Studies
Information and contact person:
For more information, visit the course website or contact the contact person.
Contact: Gustavo Pita Céspedes
E-pošta: gustavo.pita@uab.cat
Telephone: +34 93 586 8901
Additional Information
UAB specialization course
Study Code: 5268/1
2nd edition
Credits: 4 ECTS
We invite all interested parties to register and take advantage of this opportunity to expand their knowledge and deepen their understanding of classical Tibetan. Whether you're a student of Asian studies, a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism, or simply someone with a deep interest in ancient languages and cultures, this course will offer you a unique and valuable educational experience.
Take this unique opportunity to learn from an expert and delve into the fascinating world of classical Tibetan!
