annouNcement

Professor Jeffrey Hopkins, Renowned Tibetologist, Has Passed Away

July 2, 2024
M.D. Phan
Photo by Christof Spitz

Vast & Profound is saddened by the passing of our dear friend, the great scholar Professor Jeffrey Hopkins, who passed away at the age of 83 on July 1, 2024. Jeffrey dedicated his life to the study of Tibetan Buddhism and culture. After graduating from Harvard, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and went on to become a pivotal figure in Tibetan studies at the University of Virginia, where he taught for over three decades. His numerous publications, including translations of key Tibetan texts, significantly advanced the field and made Tibetan Buddhism more accessible to contemporary audiences.

Vast & Profound members and many Buddhist practitioners have benefited tremendously from his work, gaining deeper insight into the Gelug philosophical system, particularly the teachings of Je Tsongkhapa. We are forever grateful for his generosity and kindness. We pray for his swift return so he can continue his work for the Buddha Dharma to benefit all beings.

More can be learned about Dr. Hopkins' life and work here: