Marpa - Triyana Studies

Marpa Lotsawa (1012–1097)

Marpa stands as a central figure in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, playing a pivotal role in the transmission of Buddhist teachings from India to Tibet.

History

Born in the 11th century in Tibet, Marpa lived during a time of profound cultural and spiritual transformation. The introduction of Buddhism to Tibet had already begun centuries earlier, but Marpa’s generation marked a decisive moment in the development of Tibetan Buddhist practice. His dedication as both scholar and practitioner made him a pivotal figure in ensuring the preservation and accurate transmission of Buddhist teachings.

Marpa’s journey was anything but easy. He was trained by the greatest Indian masters of his time, including Naropa, Tilopa, and Maitripa. His formal training spanned several years, with Marpa making multiple perilous trips to India, where he studied under these esteemed teachers. His first journey to India (1042–1057) was particularly transformative, marked by intense study and spiritual challenges. Marpa not only mastered the intricate and profound aspects of tantric Buddhism but also took on the monumental task of translating key Sanskrit texts into Tibetan. His role as a translator has earned him the title of “Marpa the Translator,” solidifying his place as one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhist history. Through his translations, he brought to Tibet a wealth of Buddhist wisdom, enabling future generations of Tibetans to engage deeply with Indian Buddhist thought.

Teachings

One of Marpa’s most significant contributions was the establishment of the Kagyu lineage. This lineage, which emphasizes the direct transmission of teachings from teacher to student, continues to thrive in Tibetan Buddhism today. Central to the Kagyu tradition are the practices of meditation and yogic training, which Marpa taught with great passion and commitment. Despite facing significant opposition from some contemporaries, who doubted his ability to bring authentic teachings back from India, Marpa’s unwavering determination ensured that the teachings not only survived but flourished.

Marpa’s greatest legacy, however, lies in his role as a teacher. He was the primary instructor of Milarepa, one of Tibet’s most revered yogis. Milarepa’s life story of transformation and spiritual awakening remains a cornerstone of Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Marpa’s relationship with Milarepa was both complex and transformative, involving many trials and tests that ultimately led Milarepa to attain the highest levels of realization.

Though Marpa faced numerous challenges—both external, such as opposition from rival schools of thought, and internal, such as the difficulties of long periods of isolation during his travels—his life exemplified resilience, devotion, and a deep commitment to the Buddhist path. His persistence, his clarity of vision, and his deep devotion to the Dharma allowed him to overcome every obstacle in his path.

When thoughts arise, rest naturally. When dreaming, be mindful without corrupting it. When in the pardo, don’t control, but be aware. When there is fruition, let it arise without obscuration.

Marpa Lotsawa (1012–1097)

Marpa stands as a central figure in the history of Tibetan Buddhism, playing a pivotal role in the transmission of Buddhist teachings from India to Tibet.

When thoughts arise, rest naturally. When dreaming, be mindful without corrupting it. When in the pardo, don’t control, but be aware. When there is fruition, let it arise without obscuration.

-Marpa

Masters Series: The Teachings of Marpa

Over 6 hours of recorded commentary by Kevan Gale on this extraordinary yogi

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