Unlike many canonical texts found in the Kangyur or Tengyur, the Mani Kabum is a "terma" (hidden treasure) revealed by Guru Padmasambhava and Yeshe Tsogyal in the 8th century, but physically concealed to be discovered later. It was famously revealed by the great tertön Drigung Rinchen Pal (also known as Nyönpa Rinchen Pal) in the 12th century. However, some traditions attribute its final compilation to Drakpa Gyaltsen of the Sakya school.
The text is inseparable from the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum. It is said that the entire Mani Kabum is an elaboration of the six syllables, teaching:
For any serious practitioner of Chenrezig meditation or those researching early Tibetan historical narratives (including the origin of the Tibetan people as bodhisattva descendants), the Mani Kabum is an indispensable primary source.
Most traditional Tibetan Buddhist texts are considered “restricted” or “public” based on the level of commitment. The Mani Kabum has sections that require lung (oral transmission) and tri (instruction) from a qualified lama. However, the historical and mantra sections are widely available.
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The Mani Kabum is a renowned collection of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures attributed to King Songtsen Gampo (7th century CE), though it was likely compiled in the 12th–14th centuries. It is considered a "terma" (hidden treasure text) discovered by Drapa Ngönshé and Nyima Özer.
Its central focus is Avalokiteśvara (the Bodhisattva of Compassion, embodied in the Dalai Lama lineage) and the power of his six-syllable mantra: Om Mani Padme Hum.