The Karmapas

The Gyalwa Karmapa is the head of the Karma Kagyu lineage. He is unique among the great lamas of Tibet, having reached full enlightenment centuries ago. During a previous incarnation, Karmapa was at the side of the historical Buddha as the great Bodhisattva Loving Eyes (tib. Chenrezig). From the year 1110, he became the first recognized incarnate lama of Tibet and continues to take successive conscious rebirths.

1. Karmapa Dusum Khyenpa, 1110 - 1193
2. Karmapa Karma Pakshi, 1204 - 1283
3. Karmapa Rangjung Dorje, 1284 - 1339
4. Karmapa Rolpey Dorje, 1340 - 1383
5. Karmapa Deshin Shegpa, 1384 - 1415
6. Karmapa Thongwa Donden, 1416 - 1453
7. Karmapa Chotrak Gyamtso, 1454 - 1506
8. Karmapa Mikyo Dorje, 1507 - 1554
9. Karmapa Wangchuk Dorje, 1556 - 1603
10. Karmapa Choying Dorje, 1604 - 1674
11. Karmapa Yeshe Dorje, 1676 - 1702
12. Karmapa Changchub Dorje, 1703 - 1732
13. Karmapa Dudul Dorje, 1733 - 1797
14. Karmapa Thegchog Dorje, 1798 - 1868
15. Karmapa Khakhyab Dorje, 1871 - 1922
16. Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 1924 - 1981
17. Karmapa Trinlay Thaye Dorje, 1983 - now