Jetsun Milarepa, 1052-1135 (approx), was one of Tibet’s most famous yogis and poets, and a major figure in the history of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. He is said to be the first to achieve the state of Vajradhara (primordial Buddha) in one life time. His devotion to his teacher Marpa Lotsawa, his monumental forbearance and perseverance, and his ultimate final attainment are a great inspiration today for all brought the light of wisdom to sentient beings everywhere.
Milarepa is one of the great forefathers of our Lineage and at the same time one of the most known and admired Tibetan lamas. It is said that whoever at least hears his name, will not be reborn in the lower realms for the next seven lifetimes.
Milarepa is famous for many of his songs and poems, in which he expresses the profundity of his realization of the dharma with extraordinary clarity and beauty. Mila also had many disciples, men and women, who attained enlightenment under his guidance. His heart-son, Gampopa,became his spiritual successor and continued his lineage, becoming one of the main lineage masters in the Kagyu tradition.
“Milarepa himself has said that whosoever has heard of him, seen statues or representations of him, they will be reborn in one of the pure lands in seven lifetimes. Whenever you think of Milarepa, whenever you pray to Milarepa, Milarepa is right in front of you.”