Brief History of The
Tsur System

Origins of the Tsur System

The Tsur system of calendrical calculation has deep roots in Tibetan Buddhism, particularly within the Karma Kagyu tradition. After realizing the ultimate meaning of the Adibuddha tantra, and specifically the Kalachakra, His Holiness the 3rd Karmapa, Rangjung Dorje (1284–1339), composed the influential treatise Tsikun Dupa ("The Calculation of Life that Includes All"). This foundational work was later expanded upon by the 2nd Pawo Rinpoche, Tsuglag Trengwa (1504–1566), who authored a comprehensive commentary.

Development and Expansion

During the era of His Holiness the 7th Karmapa, Chödrak Gyamtso (1454–1506), the renowned Tsurphu scholar Jamyang Chenmo Döndrup Öser contributed significant instructions on the 3rd Karmapa’s treatise. He also developed the fundamental charts essential for annual calendrical calculations. From this period onward, the Tsur system began to spread widely.

Later, Karma Ngeleg Tendzin, the chief disciple of the 8th Tai Situ, Chökyi Jungne (1700–1774), authored numerous treatises on various calculation systems, including calendrical calculation, horary astrology, and other methods of prognostication. Among these, the Tsishung Nyerkho Bumsang stands out as a major work.

Refinement and Modern Application

The 1st Jamgön Kongtrul, Yönten Gyamtso (1813–1899), completed the compilation of the unfinished manual Tsishung Legshey Kuntu, enabling many scholars to utilize this astrological system. During the times of His Holiness the 15th Karmapa, Kakyab Dorje (1871–1922), and His Holiness the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje (1924–1981), the esteemed court master of calculations, Ketcho Öser Rabten, introduced a new approach to the Tsur system. He compiled the essential data for the annual astrological almanacs.

The Tsur System in the Present Day

Following the instructions of His Holiness the 17th Karmapa, Trinley Thaye Dorje, the Karma Kagyu Calendar has been calculated according to the Tsur system since Losar 2146 (February 5, 2019, in the Western calendar). For more detailed information, please refer to this announcement.