Rinpoche, also spelled Rimboche and Rinboku (), is an honorific term used in the Tibetan language. It literally means "precious one", and may refer to a person, place, or thing—like the words "gem" or "jewel" (Sanskrit: Ratna).
The word consists of rin (value), po (nominalizing suffix) and chen (big).
The word is used in the context of Tibetan Buddhism as a way of showing respect when addressing those recognized as reincarnated, older, respected, notable, learned and/or an accomplished Lamas or teachers of the Dharma. It is also used as an honorific for abbots of Buddhist monasteries.
See also
Rinpoches, a partial list of a few spiritual teachers of past and present commonly addressed as Rinpoche. Tulku, someone who is recognized as the rebirth of a previous practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Mount Kailash is often called in the Tibetan language Gang Rinpoche.
References
External links
Rinpoche entry in Rangjung Yeshe wiki.