The Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its deep meditative practices and emphasis on direct oral teachings, emerged during the Later Transmission period of Buddhism in Tibet in the 11th and 12th centuries. This tradition, part of the “New Translation” schools of Tibetan Buddhism, was founded by two influential masters: Khyungpo Naljor, (990-1140) and Marpa Lotsawa (1012-1097). Both traveled extensively to India, Nepal, and surrounding regions, seeking the guidance of renowned tantric teachers to master advanced Buddhist practices.
“Kagyu” and the Legacy of Oral Transmission
The term “Kagyu” translates as “the oral transmission lineage,” reflecting the school’s dedication to passing down teachings directly from master to disciple. The Kagyu lineage was split into two branches: the Shangpa Kagyu, founded by Khyungpo Naljor, and the Marpa Kagyu, developed by Marpa. Though they evolved in different regions—Shangpa in later Tibet and Marpa in central Tibet—both lineages share a common spiritual heritage and follow the same core principles.
Major Masters of the Kagyu Tradition
The Kagyu lineage boasts several legendary figures who played pivotal roles in spreading its teachings. The three most revered masters are:
- Marpa Lotsawa – A translator and practitioner, Marpa made three journeys to India, where he learned from tantric masters, including the famed Naropa. His dedicated pursuit of these teachings brought the advanced practices of tantric Buddhism to Tibet.
- Milarepa – Marpa’s foremost disciple, Milarepa, is celebrated as a yogi and a poet who achieved spiritual enlightenment. Known for his ascetic life and his devotion to mastering tantric teachings, Milarepa has become an icon of spiritual accomplishment and dedication for Kagyu practitioners.
- Dagpo Lhaje (Gampopa) – A disciple of Milarepa, Gampopa expanded the Kagyu teachings by founding monastic institutions, training numerous disciples, and systematizing practices. Known as the “Sun of the Kagyu,” Gampopa was instrumental in making the Kagyu tradition a prominent force in Tibetan Buddhism.
Core Practices of the Kagyu School: Mahamudra and the Six Yogas of Naropa
One of the hallmarks of Kagyu practice is Mahamudra meditation, a profound method aiming for direct realization of the nature of mind. Distinct from the Nyingma school’s Dzogchen practice, Mahamudra emphasizes simplicity, non-conceptual meditation, and cultivating insight. Additionally, Kagyu practitioners train in the Six Yogas of Naropa, a set of advanced tantric practices designed to deepen realization and accelerate spiritual progress. These core teachings remain vital to Kagyu practitioners today, as they offer a practical and transformative path to enlightenment.
The Development of the Kagyu Lineages: Primary and Secondary Schools
The Kagyu tradition expanded into various lineages, commonly grouped into two main branches:
- Four Primary Schools: Karma Kagyu, Barom Kagyu, Tshalpa Kagyu, and Phagdru Kagyu. Each of these primary branches was initiated by disciples of Gampopa and retains distinct rituals and practices.
- Eight Secondary Schools: Drikung Kagyu, Drukpa Kagyu, Martsang Kagyu, Shugseb Kagyu, Taklung Kagyu, Trophu Kagyu, Yabzang Kagyu, and Yelpa Kagyu. Over time, some of these lineages merged with other traditions or disappeared, but others, like the Drikung and Drukpa Kagyu, still thrive today.
Prominent Kagyu Monasteries and Modern Lineages
Today, three main Kagyu schools are active and prominent: Karma Kagyu, led by the Karmapa; Drikung Kagyu; and Drukpa Kagyu. Each has established influential monasteries across Tibet and beyond, serving as centers of study, practice, and community.
Key Kagyu monasteries include:
- Drigung Monastery – The seat of the Drikung Kagyu lineage, home to the lineage-holder, known for its commitment to deep meditation practices.
- Palpung Monastery – The seat of Tai Situpa and Jamgon Kongtrul, who are influential leaders in the Karma Kagyu lineage.
- Ralung Monastery – The principal monastery of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage, renowned for its teaching lineage and unique rituals.
- Surmang Monastery – Known as the seat of the Trungpa tulkus, this monastery is historically significant in the Kagyu school.
- Tsurphu Monastery – The main seat of the Karmapa, the Black Hat Lama and spiritual leader of the Karma Kagyu tradition.
Unique Tradition: The Living Buddha Reincarnation System
Karma Kagyu is renowned for pioneering the Tibetan tulku system, or Living Buddha reincarnation. The Karmapa lineage, symbolized by the Black Hat, is a central element of this tradition, where each reincarnated Karmapa continues the lineage’s teachings and spiritual leadership. Presently, the 17th Karmapa resides at Tsurphu Monastery, where he studies and guides Kagyu practitioners worldwide.
The Influence and Reach of the Kagyu Tradition
From its initial spread across the Tibetan plateau, the Kagyu school has cultivated a unique legacy of oral transmission, yogic practices, and visionary teachers. Today, the Kagyu tradition holds an enduring place in the hearts of Tibetan Buddhists and continues to inspire practitioners with its profound teachings on the nature of mind and the path to liberation. Its monasteries and teachings remain pillars of Tibetan culture and spiritual practice, especially in regions such as Kham and central Tibet.
By exploring the rich history, practices, and revered teachers of the Kagyu school, one gains insight into a tradition that has shaped Tibetan Buddhism and continues to inspire spiritual seekers worldwide.
