The Life of Gampopa — The Union of Study and Practice with Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche

A Special Teaching Event with Mingyur Rinpoche This is a special online event exploring the life and teachings of Gampopa, one of the most revered figures in the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. This session will feature a live teaching from Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, followed by scholarly reflection from John Mckransky, and guided meditation from Justin Kelley — all centered on how Gampopa’s life exemplifies the union of intellectual study and experiential practice. Live Teaching from Mingyur Rinpoche Receive direct teachings from Mingyur Rinpoche on the life of Gampopa and how his legacy reflects the integration of intellectual understanding and experiential practices. Rinpoche will illuminate how this study-practice approach is essential for transforming understanding into awakening. Scholarly Reflection by John Makransky John Makransky, Buddhist scholar and long-time practitioner, will offer a perspective rooted in academic study and experiential application. His reflections will bridge the traditional teachings with modern contexts. Guided Meditation with Tergar Institute co-Executive Director Justin Kelley Experience a grounding and heart-centered meditation guided by Justin Kelley, contemplative faculty at the Tergar Institute. Drawing on Gampopa’s teachings, the session will support participants in connecting the study of the teachings to personal inner experience. About Gampopa Gampopa (1079–1153), also known as Dakpo Lharje, was a physician turned monk whose unique integration of the Kadampa scholastic tradition and the Mahamudra meditation lineage laid the foundation for the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. As the heart disciple of Milarepa, Gampopa transmitted both profound meditative instructions and the importance of systematic study — a union that continues to inspire Buddhist practitioners today. Kagyu Lineage and Mahamudra The Kagyu lineage, often referred to as the "oral lineage," emphasizes direct meditative experience and heart-to-heart transmission of wisdom. One of its most profound teachings is Mahamudra — the "Great Seal" — which points directly to the nature of mind and reality. Gampopa played a pivotal role in formalizing the Kagyu tradition, combining the deep experiential path of Mahamudra with the structured ethical and philosophical training of the Kadampa school. This balance is a cornerstone of Kagyu practice today, and continues through the teachings of masters such as Mingyur Rinpoche, who carries this living lineage forward. The Union of Study and Practice This event will highlight how the integrated path exemplified by Gampopa can deepen our practice, offering tools for transforming intellectual understanding into direct experience and insight. Whether you're a long-time practitioner or new to the path, this session will offer profound inspiration and practical guidance.