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The Karmapas and Their Mahamudra Forefathers

An Illustrated Guide

Contributions by Seventeenth Karmapa and Thrangu Rinpoche / Illustrated by Rigzin / Translated by Michele Martin
Published by Wisdom Publications
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
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About The Book

With lively, engaging stories and exquisite portraits, this volume is sure to inspire.

“I believe the life a lama lives is the greatest instruction to the students who follow him or her. It is an instruction we can actually see. The lama's deeds display the Dharma in action for us. They can instruct our hearts with the fullness of lived experience. In the lama's actions we can observe how the mind turns to Dharma, and how that Dharma becomes a path. We can watch how the path eliminates confusion, and how confusion arises as wisdom.”
– H.H. the Seventeenth Karmapa

The Karmapas and Their Mahamudra Forefathers collects fascinating accounts of the lives of the Karmapas and of their forefathers in the Mahamudra practice lineage. Each story is accompanied by a beautiful, full-color illustration of its subject in the lineage, as depicted in the traditional style of Eatern Tibet used at the renowned Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery in Nepal.

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Product Details

  • Publisher: Wisdom Publications (September 20, 2016)
  • Length: 344 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781614292807

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Raves and Reviews

“This collection of inspiring stories and beautiful artwork presents a glimpse into the lives of some of the greatest masters of the Kagyu lineage. These stories have been passed down from teacher to student for centuries. Filled with profound teachings and practical guidance on the path of awakening, this volume will be of great interest to all those who wish to embody compassion and wisdom.”

– Mingyur Rinpoche

“A wonderful introduction to the history of the Karmapas, one of the most important and influential lines of reincarnated lamas in all of Tibetan history. And at the same time, a wonderful introduction to one of the most beautiful painting styles in Tibetan art. This is a laudable achievement, and a sure sign of the ongoing vitality of these traditions today. A marvelous book to enjoy, and from which to learn.”

– Janet Gyatso, Harvard University

”This collection is a welcome addition for anyone interested in the history of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, its renowned lineage of teachers known as the Karmapas, and their seminal meditation instructions called Mahamudra. The book brings to life great masters of the past and illuminates their contributions to a vibrant living tradition.”

– Andrew Quintman, Yale University

“A perfect pairing, these biographies and images enliven Kagyu history, shining light on many of the traditions most important figures.”

– Buddhadharma

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