Ka-ter project

Introduction by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, the founder of the Shang Shung Institute

I am happy to announce the initiation of a new project from Shang-Shung Institute Austria. This project is called the Ka-ter Translation Project. The name Ka-ter comes from Kama and Terma; Kama means all the original texts of teachings and Tibetan culture that has existed for centuries and centuries until now, and Terma means hidden treasures of texts and objects rediscovered by Tertons in the correct time or moment.

We have many very ancient texts and objects related with Kama or Terma in Tibet. The Ka-ter Project includes several activities: the Training for Translators from Tibetan, the translation and publication of the Dzogchen Tantras, and the project for the preservation of the Terma teachings of the great Terton Changchub Dorje and so on. Soon to begin is a collaboration of Shang-Shung Institute with several universities.

I hope that this initiative will be very important for all the people interested in the Teachings and Tibetan culture. In order to become familiar with the unique knowledge of the ancient masters of Tibet, one must comprehend their scriptures and precious texts and make them available for future generations in Western language in a precise and correct translation.

The Ka-ter Translation Project is an important step in that direction. I really hope that all of you who interested in this area will support this project, directly or indirectly, and collaborate with its various aspects. You are really welcome to collaborate on this project!

With many Tashi Delegs,
Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, Isla Margarita 2004.

Blessings and wishes from His Holiness, the XIV Dalai Lama to our new project

On the 15th of January 2005 Oliver Leick, the director of the Shang Shung Institute Austria, received the following mail from the Office of Dalai Lama:

Dear Mr. Oliver Leick,

His Holiness is pleased to learn about the Ka-ter Translation Project which is an initiative aimed at spreading and deepening knowledge of Tibetan culture and to ensure its survival. This is what we Tibetans have been trying to do ever since we have been in exile. His Holiness sends you His blessings and wishes your project success.

Best wishes,
Tenzin Geyche Tethong