The Karma Kagyu Tradition
The Kagyu Lineage is an unbroken line of oral transmissions from teacher to student for several hundred years. The present head of the Karma Kagyu tradition is H.H. 17th Gyalwa Karmapa Ogyen Drodul Trinley Dorje. Many great teachers form part of the Lineage; what follows is a very brief historical summary. The lineages of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism derives primarily from Marpa Chokyi Lodoe (1012-1099).
Marpa studied at the feet of 108 spiritual masters and adepts, principally Naropa (taught by Tilopa) and Maitripa. He brought the lineages to Tibet, passing them on to his foremost disciple, Milarepa (1040-1123), the most celebrated and accomplished of Tibet’s tantric yogis, who achieved the ultimate goal of enlightenment in one lifetime.
Among Milarepa’s disciples, Gampopa (1084-1161), also known as Dakpo Lhaje, and Rechungpa (1084-1161) were the most illustrious. The former received the teaching and practice of Mahamudra and the Six Yogas of Naropa from Milarepa, and combined them into one lineage. This came to be known as Dakpo Kagyu, the mother lineage of the Kagyu tradition.
Karma Kagyu was founded by the 1st Karmapa Dusum Khyenpa (1110-1193). This tradition has remained strong, in large part due to the presence of an unbroken line of reincarnations of the founder, the successive Karmapas.
Directions to Gear Mill
At Mawgan village, near Helston, drive past the Post Office/Spar on your left, then the Church on left and follow the road down hill to the Helford River; cross the 1st bridge at the first creek and just before Gear Bridge on the 2nd creek, turn right and take the left hand gate, following the rough track upstream to Gear Mill at the end. Please turn your car on arrival and park to allow others space – Thank–you! There is some parking on the road along the creek with room for one car only just outside the gate.
For further information, please contact Sophie Muir 01326 221651. See also the Gear Mill web site.
For inquiries, bookings and further information about accommodation costs for bedroom, dormitory or camping, please contact Sophie Muir
