Dusum Khyenpa

Dusum Khyenpa

Dusum Khyenpa, the 1st Karmapa, the founder of the Karma Kagyu school, one of the major schools of the Kagyu lineage. Born in 1100 (sometimes cited as 1110) in Tibet, he was recognized early for extraordinary spiritual capacities. He was trained under several eminent teachers, including Gampopa, the foremost disciple of Milarepa, inheriting both the Kadampa monastic discipline and the profound Mahamudra teachings.

Dusum Khyenpa became renowned for his meditative mastery, visionary insight, and ability to foresee events—his name literally means “Knower of the Three Times.” He founded several important monasteries, including Karma Gon in Kham and Tsurphu Monastery in central Tibet, which later became the main seat of the Karmapas.

He is also historically significant for being the first consciously reincarnated lama in Tibetan Buddhism, establishing the tradition of tulkus. After his death in 1193, his reincarnation was recognized as Karma Pakshi, the 2nd Karmapa, setting the precedent for the continuous Karmapa lineage that persists today.

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The body and mind are interdependent, so when the proper physical posture is maintained, it will automatically have an effect on your mind. ~ 1st Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa