On August 29, 2026, the 10-day annual debate examination at Drepung Monastery commenced. 

Monks sitting for the examination from Drepung Monastery and several affiliated monasteries engaged in formal debates on five major canonical texts, including Pramāṇavārttika (The Commentary on Valid Cognition).   

During the examination, two outstanding responding monks sat on the platform and provided precise answers to a series of rapid-fire questions from multiple challengers. Their responses demonstrated clear logic and proper citation of Buddhist teachings throughout the process.  

Questioners used traditional debate gestures, including clapping and stamping their feet, to intensify the rhythm of questioning and probe deeper into the finer points of Buddhist philosophy.

The examination was evaluated on site by a committee of more than 20 assessors. Over the course of the event, several hundred monks were expected to attend and participate in the examination. 

Visitors from China and abroad observe the scriptural debate examination.  

Editor：Bella Wu