Naropa
The master Tilopa passed the four special transmissions to Naropa, who systematized them as the Six Yogas of Naropa that are considered a central theme in the Kagyu Lineage.

Marpa
Naropa transmitted his knowledge to Marpa, the great translator who journeyed from Tibet to India in order to receive instructions and who subsequently returned to Tibet and spread the teachings of the Dharma.

Milarepa
His student Milarepa, became one of the Tibet's great yogis. Through perseverance in the practice of Mahamudra and the Six Yogas of Naropa, he achieved profound realization of the ultimate nature of reality.

Gampopa
Milarepa's transmission was carried on by Gampopa, the physician from Dagpo. He studied the Kadampa traditions, which is a gradual path that includes what is called the Lam Rim teachings. He also met Milarepa, and attained realization of ultimate reality under his guidance . He established monastic institutions, taught extensively and attracted many students.

The first Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa
It was the first Karmapa, Dusum Khyenpa, who received the complete Mahamudra transmission from Gampopa. He began the lineage of the Karmapas, which continues today.

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