U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2000

Tibetan Buddhism

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Karmapa Lama belongs to which of the following sects of Tibetan Buddhism?

Solution & Analysis

Answer: B

Concept Tibetan Buddhism is divided into four main schools, each with its own lineage of reincarnating lamas.

Explanation The Karmapa is the head of the Karma Kagyu, the largest sub-school of the Kagyu (Kagyupa) tradition, known for the 'oral transmission' of teachings.

Logical Breakup
Kagyupa (B): Founded by Gampopa and emphasized meditation (Mahamudra).
Gelugpa (A): The 'Yellow Hat' school, headed by the Dalai Lama.
Nyingmapa: The 'Ancient' school, focused on early Padmasambhava traditions.

Active Recall

Question

Where is the seat of the Karmapa in India?

Answer

The main seat in exile is the Rumtek Monastery in Sikkim.

Core Insight

The Karmapa lineage is the oldest tulku (reincarnation) lineage in Tibet, predating the Dalai Lama lineage by several centuries.