Our Lineage – Drikung Kagyu 

The Kagyu

The lineage of the Kagyu emphasizes the continuity of oral instructions passed on from master to student. This emphasis is reflected in the literal meaning of “Kagyu.” The first syllable “Ka” refers to the scriptures of the Buddha and the oral instructions of the guru. “Ka” has the sense both of the enlightened meaning conveyed by the words of the teacher, as well as the force which such words of insight carries. The second syllable “gyu” means lineage or tradition. Together, these syllables mean “the lineage of the oral instructions.”

The Drikung Kagyu

The Kagyu articulated into twelve historical streams within the lineage. We follow the Drikung Kagyu. Drikung is a region in Central Tibet and is one of the most populus Kagyu lineages. It derived from the great teacher Jigten Sumgon. The line of the precious golden rosary lineage of the incomparable Drikung Kagyupas: Vajradhara, Tilopa, Naropa, Marpa, Milarepa, Gampopa, Phagmo Drukpa, and Lord Drikungpa (Jigten Sumgon). This line is continued unbroken by a stream of realized masters to this very day. 

Photo: Lord Jigten Sumgon, Founder of the Drikung Kagyu Lineage

For more on the Drikung Kagyu lineage: https://www.drikung.org/drikung-kagyu-lineage/