Kagyu

Definition

Kagyu is one of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its emphasis on the transmission of teachings from master to student through an unbroken lineage. It is particularly recognized for its practices focused on meditation, including the development of insight and compassion. Kagyu plays a significant role in the diverse landscape of Tibetan Buddhist schools, highlighting the importance of both doctrinal study and experiential understanding.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kagyu is often referred to as the 'Oral Transmission' school, highlighting its focus on direct instruction from teacher to student.
2. The lineage of Kagyu traces back to the Indian master Tilopa and his student Naropa, emphasizing the importance of their teachings in shaping the school.
3. Kagyu includes various sub-schools, such as the Karma Kagyu and Drikung Kagyu, each with unique practices and lineages but sharing core principles.
4. The practice of meditation in Kagyu is integral, with techniques like shamatha (calm abiding) and vipashyana (insight) forming the basis for spiritual development.
5. Kagyu teachings are often characterized by their practical approach to attaining enlightenment, stressing personal experience over mere theoretical understanding.

Review Questions

• How does the transmission of teachings within Kagyu differ from other Tibetan Buddhist schools?
  • Kagyu emphasizes oral transmission from teacher to student, forming a direct link that is central to its practice. This method contrasts with other schools that might focus more on textual study or rituals. The unbroken lineage maintained by Kagyu ensures that teachings are passed down authentically, preserving their essence and effectiveness in leading practitioners toward enlightenment.
• Discuss the significance of Mahamudra within Kagyu practices and how it relates to achieving enlightenment.
  • Mahamudra is a key practice in Kagyu that allows practitioners to directly experience the nature of their own mind. Through this meditative approach, individuals cultivate insight into emptiness and awareness, which are essential for reaching enlightenment. This method aligns with Kagyu's overall goal of experiential understanding, showing how practical meditation can lead to profound spiritual realization.
• Evaluate how the sub-schools within Kagyu contribute to its overall diversity while maintaining core teachings.
  • The various sub-schools within Kagyu, such as Karma Kagyu and Drikung Kagyu, add depth and richness to its traditions while still adhering to fundamental teachings on meditation and lineage. Each sub-school has distinct practices and focuses but shares a commitment to oral transmission and experiential learning. This diversity allows practitioners to choose paths that resonate with them personally while remaining connected to a broader historical and spiritual context that defines Kagyu Buddhism.

Related terms

Mahamudra: A central practice in Kagyu, Mahamudra is a meditative approach aimed at realizing the nature of mind and achieving enlightenment.

Lineage: In Tibetan Buddhism, lineage refers to the transmission of teachings and practices through a series of qualified teachers, crucial for maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the teachings.

Four Yogas: A set of practices within Kagyu that guides practitioners through stages of meditation leading to profound realization and spiritual development.