The Kagyu lineage is one of the great lore traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, along with the Nyingma, Sakya, and Gelug lineages.
The lineage goes back to the Indian Mahamudra masters Tilopa [988 - 1069] and Naropa [1016-1100]. One of the great translators of the Tibetan tradition was Marpa [1012-1097],
Marpa's chief disciple was the Tibetan yogi Milarepa [1042-1123]. Other principal disciples were Rechungpa [1084-1161] and Gampopa [1079-1153].
| Name | Lifedates |
|---|---|
| 09 Saraha | 8th cent. |
| 12 Tilopa | 988 - 1068 |
| 14 Marpa | 1012 - 1097 |
| 15 Maitripada | 1007 - 1085 |
| 28 Milarepa | 1052 - 1134 |
| 36 Gampopa | 1079 - 1153 |