History of Dreprung Monastery
Drepung monastery was founded in 1416 by a disciple of Tsong Khapa, Yangjiangque jie.
Yangjiangque jie was born in a poor family inShannanyedi, Tibet. He studied hard in his childhood, and later became a disciple of Tsong Khapa specializing in sutra, and at last became well-known for his mastery of Xianzhong, Esoteric sect. In order to spread abroad the tenet, Tsong Khapa entrusted him to build a grand monastery and presented him a lucky symbol: a conch shell. Under the patron of a noble family, Yangjiangqu jie started to build this monastery in 1416.The monastery was named “Baidenzhehe” which means Rice Heap in Tibetan. After its construction, Yangjiangquejie was appointed as the first tripas. There are 23 tripas together. In 1464, colleges were set up to teach tantra in this monastery.
Drepung monastery is called the original monastery of Lamaism for it has been the living place of the first, second, third and forth Dalai Lama. The second Dalai Lama built a palace（named Gedanpozhang）in this monastery where he took over the administrative power of Tibet.
The third Dalai Lama was invited here as the first living Buddha in Drepung monastery, who later went to Qinghai to sermon after Andahai (the leader of Mongolia) invited him. In Ming Dynasty, the 6th year of Yong Le, Andahai bestowed the honor name “Sheshiyiqianwaqierdalaierlama ” which bought the saying of Dalai Lama into being. After he got this honor name, he admitted posthumously the former two with the fist and second Dalai Lama. And the fifth Dalai Lama also lived there until he received the appointment of Qing Dynasty.
Drepung monastery is called the original monastery of Lamaism for its most honorable status and deep influence. Ganden Potrang Palace (one of the palace in Drepung monastery) is also thought of the place where Gelug took the administrative power of both Lamaist sect and local area, because it has been the living place of the second, third, forth and the fifth Dalai Lama.