Terma
“Terma” is a Tibetan term that means “treasures” and consists of ancient Buddhist texts, objects for ritual, such as statues, or chests that may have been concealed by Padmasambhava or Buddhist master. Uncovering Terma is a very important tradition of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
In modern Tibet, Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok was an intellectual and religious scholar as well as a famous Terton(treasure revealer). There are many mythic and charismatic stories of his ability to uncover Terma. In 1990, he discovered a sacred site that had been a palace of legendary King Gesar. That led to an archaeological dig that turned up ancient building stones and several treasure chests. His findings of new sacred sites and caves that related to previous Buddha and reincarnations are numerous in Tibet. He also found holy places in other parts of world. During his visit to Mount Wutai in China and India, by miraculous signs he recalled memories of previous lives and discovered meditation retreat sites that were previously unknown. Khenpo Jigme Phuntsok’s ability to uncover Terma has played an important role in inspiring devotion in the revival of Tibetan Buddhism in contemporary Tibet.
Read more about this topic: Jigme Phuntsok