Naropa facts for kids
Nāropā (born 956, died 1041) was an important Indian Buddhist teacher. He lived a long time ago, in a country called India. Naropa was a student of a famous teacher named Tilopa. He was also the brother and student of another teacher, Niguma. Naropa became the main teacher of Marpa. Marpa later started a special group of Buddhist teachings called the Kagyu school in Tibetan Buddhism.
Naropa's Early Life and Studies
Naropa was born into a very respected family called the Brahmin class. From a young age, he was very smart and had a strong mind. When he was 28 years old, Naropa went to a famous Buddhist University called Nalanda. There, he studied different kinds of Buddhist texts. These included Sutra (teachings from Buddha) and Tantra (special spiritual practices).
Naropa became known as a great scholar. This means he was very knowledgeable. He was also a skilled debater, someone who could argue ideas very well.
Becoming a Great Teacher
Later, Naropa became a student of the wise teacher Tilopa. He spent twelve years learning and meditating with Tilopa. During this time, Naropa faced many difficult challenges. He overcame twelve smaller problems and twelve bigger ones. These challenges helped him grow and learn.
Eventually, Naropa reached a state of deep understanding and wisdom. This is called "full realization" in Buddhism. After this, he became a respected teacher himself. He then taught Marpa, who would later bring many of Naropa's teachings to Tibet.
Images for kids
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Thangka of Mahasiddha Naropa, 19th century
See also
In Spanish: Naropa para niños
