Karmapa

The Karmapa is the head of the Karma Kagyu school, one of the major traditions within Tibetan Buddhism. Recognized as an incarnation of the Bodhisattva of Compassion, Avalokiteshvara, the Karmapa embodies spiritual leadership and guidance. Reincarnated through a lineage believed to be a conscious continuation of enlightened consciousness, each Karmapa is trained from a young age to uphold Buddhist teachings, promote compassion, and serve as a spiritual guide for followers. The Karmapa’s role includes teaching meditation, preserving traditions, and supporting the spiritual growth of practitioners worldwide. There are historically two main claimants to the title, leading to different lineages within the tradition.