History of the Dzogchen Ponlops
Early Emanations
Seven Incarnations of the Dzogchen Ponlop Line
- Namkha Ösal (?-1726)
- Pema Sangngak Tenzin (1731-1805)
- Namkha Chökyi Gyatso (1806-1821?)
- Jigme Chöying Ösel (?)
- Kunchok Tenpe Nyima (?)
- Jigtral Tsewang Dorje (1925-62)
- Karma Sungrap Ngedön Tenpa Gyaltsen (1965-present)
Reincarnate Masters (Tulku) in Tibetan Buddhism
In Tibetan, the word "tulku" or "emanation body" generally refers to:
- nirmanakaya, the "supreme emanation body" manifested by a Buddha, or
- reincarnate masters, bodhisattvas who intentionally incarnate and continue the lineage heritage of wisdom and compassion for the welfare of sentient beings.
The tradition of recognizing reincarnate masters began in Tibet in the early 12th century with the line of Karmapas, uniquely recognized on the basis of the "last testament" of the previous Karmapa, a letter describing the details of the next birth. Following the establishment of the Karmapa line, reincarnations of many other great mediation masters started being identified through various other means. Among these are visions and dreams of other contemporary, realized and omniscient masters, as well as tests the young candidate is put through to confirm the recognition.
Since the mid 17th century, the activities of the line of Dzogchen Ponlop incarnations have included leading Dzogchen Monastery as one of the three main abbots and practicing in intensive meditation retreats.
→ Repa Shiwa Ö (12th century)
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