Shamarpa facts for kids

The 14th Shamarpa in Kassel

The Shamarpa, also known as Kunzig Shamar Rinpoche, is a very important teacher in Tibetan Buddhism. Think of him as a spiritual leader. He is part of the Karma Kagyu school, which is one of the main branches of Tibetan Buddhism. The Shamarpa is considered the second most important leader in this school, right after the Karmapa.

Many Buddhists believe the Shamarpa is a special person. They see him as a living form, or "manifestation," of Amitabha Buddha. This means they believe a Buddha's wisdom and kindness appear through him. He is also one of the first spiritual teachers, called a lama, who is believed to be reborn again and again to help others.

The very first Shamar Rinpoche was named Khedrup Drakpa Senge. He lived from 1284 to 1349. He was a main student of the 3rd Karmapa, Rangjung Dorje.

The Current Shamarpa

The Shamarpa living today is the 14th one in the line. His name is Mipham Chokyi Lodro. He was born in 1952 in a place called Derge in Tibet. When he was just four years old, his uncle, who was the 16th Karmapa, recognized him as the next Shamarpa.

Images for kids

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  The 14th Shamarpa teaching

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  Chodag Yeshe Palzang, the 4th Shamar Rinpoche, 16th-century painting from the Rubin Museum of Art

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  Mipam Chokyi Wangchug, (1584-1630) the 6th Shamar Rinpoche, 16th-century painting from the Rubin Museum of Art

See also

In Spanish: Shamarpa para niños