This article offers some evidence on Padmasambhava, the Indian master who, according to legend, was instrumental in establishing Buddhism in Tibet. It suggests that the Padmasambhava legend initially flourished during the so-called dark period of Tibetan history. The motifs of Tibetan religion over the centuries are examined. It argues that the legends surrounding the Indian tantric master Padmasambhava should be understood as part of the tantric conversion of Tibet.
