Je Khenpo
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The Je Khenpo, formerly called the Dharma Raj by orientalists, is the title given to the highest religious official of Bhutan. His primary duty is to lead the Central Monk Body, the main monastic body of the country, and to arbitrate on matters of doctrine. The Je Khenpo is also responsible for many important liturgical and religious duties across the country. The sitting Je Khenpo is also formally the leader of the Drukpa sect of the Kagyupa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
According to the dual system of government established by the Shabdrung in the 17th century, the powers of the government of Bhutan are ideally split between the religious branch, headed by the Je Khenpo, and the administrative branch, headed by the Druk Desi. Since the establishment of the monarchy in 1907, the relative influence of the Je Khenpo has diminished. Nonetheless, the position remains a powerful one and the Je Khenpo is typically viewed as the closest and most powerful advisor to the King of Bhutan.
The position of Je Khenpo is granted on merit, and typically is given to the most respected monk in the body. Thus, unlike reincarnation lineages such as the Dalai Lama, Shabdrung, or Panchen Lama, the position of Je Khenpo is never held by a child but always by a seasoned monk.
On June 10, 2005 the 67th Je Khenpo, Ngawang Thinley Lhundup, died at the age of 84 on June 10, 2005. He was noted as a strict disciplinarian who would not compromise any rules in managing the Central Monk Body. In addition to his position as Je Khenpo, he was recognized as the trulku of Nyizergang, the seat of the terton Woogpa Lingpa, in Wangdue Phodrang province.
The 71st and present Je Khenpo is Trulku Jigme Chhoeda. He is believed to be the reincarnation of Maitreya, as well as the mahasiddha Saraha, Hungchen Kara, Kheuchung Lotsawa, and His Holiness Pema Tsering.
