Tibetan buddhism reincarnation

Stupa - Panchen Lama's tomb

The reincarnation system (tulku), a distinguishing characteristic of Tibetan Buddhism, is based the theory that Buddha's soul never vanishes, but reincarnates in succession to lead his followers and to accomplish his mission.

One of first reincarnations among the Buddhist monks in Tibet is Karma Pakshi. In , before Dusum Chenpa, a religious leader, the first Karmapa of the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, passed away, he told his disciples that he would return as a reincarnated being.

His disciples soon led a search for his infant reincarnation in accordance with his will.

Tibetan buddhism reincarnation beliefs

Several years later, Karma Pakshi turned out as the first reincarnation in Tibet and trained to be Karma Kagyu leader. After Karma Pakshi's reincarnation, the reincarnation system was adopted by other sects gradually to keep a consistent religious leadership.

By applying the system, heirs for hundreds of Gyalwas (Living Buddhas) wer