Tibetan Buddhism was first propagated in Han areas in the early 20th century. Nora Rinpoche played a major role in this. His life was filled with mysterious stories: his recognition as a reincarnated tulku and acquiring his Khutughtu title after birth, his escaping from a jail in Lhasa and miraculously reaching a Han area in mid age, and his passing away in Kham. His disciples and followers may take these for granted. However, as more and more historical documents are uncovered, the room for discussion has become wider than before. This article looks at such divine mysteries as his identity as a reincarnated tulku and his title of Khutughtu. It also reveals the reality of this renowned master's life in the hope of showing the truth to history. Readers may ask themselves whether apotheosis is necessary for a religious master's to be of value. Whether the sacredness of a master's life will be attenuated if the mystery is removed or whether the sacredness of a religion can be reached or fulfilled without apotheosizing a religious master. Besides acknowledging someone as a reincarnated tulku, he/she still needs to go through academic training to gain essential knowledge and perform decent dharma practice to become a qualified master. These prerequisites can guarantee the capability to consolidate a sacred position. Furthermore the rationality of Buddhism can be secured.
