Jacob Dalton

Jacob Dalton spearheads initiatives to address the complexities of Tibetan Buddhism, serving as the Khyentse Foundation Distinguished University Professor at the University of California, Berkeley. With a robust academic background, Dalton earned his B.A. from Marlboro College in 1993, followed by an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Michigan in 2002. His scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the exploration of tantric ritual, Nyingma religious history, and the enigmatic Dunhuang manuscripts. Dalton's contributions to the field are marked by his insightful publications, including "The Taming of the Demons: Violence and Liberation in Tibetan Buddhism," which delves into the intricate relationship between violence and spiritual liberation within Tibetan Buddhist practices. Another notable work, "Through the Eyes of the Compendium of Intentions: The History of a Tibetan Ritual Tradition," offers a comprehensive examination of Tibetan ritual traditions, shedding light on their historical and cultural significance. Currently, Dalton is engaged in the development of two forthcoming books. One aims to serve as an accessible introduction to tantric Buddhism, providing readers with a foundational understanding of its principles and practices. The other is an interpretive study focusing on Tibet's early Great Perfection Heart Essence tradition, a subject that promises to offer new insights into the evolution of Tibetan spiritual thought. At UC Berkeley, Dalton is known for his dynamic teaching style and his ability to inspire students to delve deeply into the study of Tibetan Buddhism. His courses often challenge students to critically engage with primary texts and to consider the broader implications of religious practices and beliefs in historical and contemporary contexts. Beyond his academic endeavors, Dalton is actively involved in various scholarly communities, contributing to conferences and collaborative projects that aim to advance the understanding of Tibetan Buddhism and its global impact. His work continues to influence both scholars and practitioners, bridging the gap between academic research and lived religious experience.