Remembering Jeffrey Hopkins – Scholar, Mentor, and Advocate of Tibetan Buddhism
Dr. Jeffrey Hopkins, a pioneering figure in Tibetan Buddhist scholarship, passed away on July 1, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy cherished by colleagues and friends worldwide.
His contributions spanned over five decades, beginning with his pivotal studies under Geshe Wangyal and subsequent academic pursuits at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he earned his PhD with a groundbreaking thesis on “Meditation on Emptiness”.
Hopkins’s career flourished at the University of Virginia, where he nurtured generations of scholars in Buddhist Studies and established a robust program that continues to influence the field profoundly.
Colleagues like Anne Klein fondly recall his unparalleled dedication, where he personally mentored each graduate student, demonstrating a scholarly generosity that remains unmatched.
Beyond academia, Hopkins was renowned for his integrity and openness.
His willingness to discuss personal experiences, including memories of a past life and his journey to spiritual integrity, resonated deeply within Dharma communities.
He exemplified honesty in academic collaborations, often crediting Tibetan scholars as co-authors, challenging conventional hierarchies and fostering a spirit of mutual respect.
Throughout his life, Hopkins maintained a close relationship with His Holiness the Dalai Lama, serving as his primary English translator and facilitating the dissemination of Tibetan Buddhist teachings in the West.
His translations and writings, such as “Meditation on Emptiness” and “Maps of the Profound,” enriched Western understanding of Tibetan philosophy and practice.
In tribute, Robert A. F. Thurman, a longtime friend, highlighted Hopkins’s profound impact on the understanding of emptiness and selflessness, critical tenets of Indo-Tibetan wisdom.
Hopkins’s legacy as a scholar, mentor, and advocate for honesty and compassion will endure, ensuring his influence continues to illuminate the path for future generations of Buddhist scholars and practitioners alike.
