Thirteen monks have been awarded the Geshe Lharampa, the highest academic degree in the Geluk school of Tibetan Buddhism, after passing a rigorous sutra debating examination at Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Xizang autonomous region.

Often compared to a doctorate, the degree is earned through decades of systematic study of Buddhist philosophy, logic and scripture.

The newly accredited monks come from major monasteries in Shigatse, Lhokha, Chamdo, Nagchu and Lhasa, bringing the total number of Geshe Lharampas in Xizang to 215.

The examination, overseen by an official evaluation committee, began with a grand prayer ceremony. Chanting echoed through the temple courtyard as the scent of Tibetan incense filled the air, setting a solemn tone for the assessment that followed.

At the heart of the process is formalized debate — a defining feature of Tibetan Buddhist education that tests not only knowledge, but also reasoning and clarity of thought. Under the committee's supervision, the 13 candidates engaged in intensive exchanges on the classics of Tibetan Buddhist teachings.

The examiners, a board of master scholars, stood in the middle of the courtyard ready to challenge the candidates, who sat on raised podiums situated at the center and at the end of the courtyard.

Debate was fierce at times, with monks making pushing and pulling gestures and clapping their hands to emphasize their points, as if in combat. Such debate is a distinctive method of learning, assessment and advancement in Tibetan Buddhist monastic education, combining philosophical inquiry with a highly structured format passed down through centuries.

Following strict evaluation, Ngakwang Leshed of Sera Monastery ranked first. He said he felt honored to receive the degree after more than 30 years of preparation.

"Right at this moment, I want to first thank my dharma teachers, fellow monks and my family, who have supported and guided me throughout the years," he said.

The event also drew visitors, offering a window into a living intellectual and spiritual tradition. Ana Cristel Romo, a tourist from Mexico, said she was deeply impressed by what she had learned.

"It is very impressive how they carry out these practices and how highly they value wisdom. Through this, one can pursue enlightenment and cultivate virtue," she said.

Another visitor from France, who encountered the event during her visit to Jokhang Temple, said she felt fortunate to witness it. "I think the very existence of Tibetan culture is a gift to human civilization, and I feel lucky to be here and experience it," she said.

Contact the writers at palden_nyima@chinadaily.com.cn