GAMPOPA Meaning and
Definition
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Gampopa is a term that refers to a highly revered figure in Tibetan Buddhist history. It can be understood as both a proper noun, as it denotes the name of an individual, and as a title that signifies the role and status of this individual within the context of Tibetan Buddhism.
Gampopa, whose full name was Gampopa Sonam Rinchen, was a renowned Tibetan Buddhist master who lived from 1079 to 1153. Considered one of the most important lineage holders of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism, Gampopa is known for his profound influence on the development and transmission of Buddhist teachings in Tibet. He was the principal student of the great Tibetan yogi Milarepa and went on to become the teacher of the first Karmapa, founder of the Karma Kagyu lineage.
As a title, Gampopa refers more broadly to individuals who have mastered the teachings and practices of Gampopa, embodying his profound wisdom and compassion. These individuals are often regarded as spiritual guides and lineage holders who continue to transmit Gampopa's teachings to future generations of Buddhist practitioners.
Gampopa's legacy encompasses various written works, most notably his renowned text "Jewel Ornament of Liberation," which serves as a comprehensive guide to the stages of the spiritual path in Tibetan Buddhism. This text, along with Gampopa's teachings and personal realization, has greatly influenced and shaped the understanding and practice of Buddhism in Tibet and beyond.
Etymology of GAMPOPA
The word "Gampopa" has Tibetan origins and is derived from two terms: "gam" and "po".
1) "Gam" means "offspring" or "child" in Tibetan. It refers to the fact that Gampopa, also known as Dakpo Lharje, was born into a Tibetan family.
2) "Po" is an honorific suffix that is often added to Tibetan names to indicate respect or to denote a learned person, similar to "sir" or "mister" in English.
Therefore, "Gampopa" can be understood as "the child of a Tibetan family" or "the one respected like a child from Tibet". Gampopa was a highly influential Tibetan Buddhist master and founder of the Kagyu school, one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism.
