The Treasury of Lives

Hor Donyon Rinpoche (hor mdo smyon rin po che) was likely born in the fourth or fifth decade of the nineteenth century. His name, Hor Donyon, suggests he was born in Horpo, a town near Katok Monastery (kaH thog rdo rje gdan), though this is unconfirmed. No details of his birth, early life, or parents are available. He joined to Katok Monastery at a young age and studied under several teachers including the Second Katok Situ, Chokyi Lodro (kaH thog si tu 02 chos kyi blo gros, 1820-1879), and the Third Drime Zhingkyong, Jigme Yonten Gonpo (dri med zhing skyong 03 'jigs med yon tan mgon po, 1837-1898).

In accordance with the Katok curriculum, his initial studies focused on both the kama (bka' ma) and terma (gter ma) traditions. He eventually concentrated on the treasure teachings of Rigdzin Dudul Dorje (rig 'dzin dud 'dul rdo rje, 1615-1672) and Rigdzin Longsel Nyingpo (rig 'dzin klong gsal snying po, 1625-1692), for which he received the related transmissions, instructions, and empowerments. He then turned his studies and practice to the Dzogchen system of teachings. After his schooling was completed, he served his monastery in both religious and administrative capacities for several years.

He later donated the entirety of his labrang's (bla brang) wealth to Katok Monastery and devoted the rest of his life to yogic practice and strict meditation. The donation helped to fund regular summer retreats and sponsored the installation of many objects of faith, including small statues placed on shelves in the assembly hall.