Khyungpo Naljor

Khyungpo Naljor (990–1139) was the founder of the Shangpa Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism and a disciple of the Indian mahasiddha Niguma.

Background

Born in the Tsang region of Tibet, Khyungpo Naljor initially trained as a Bön priest before turning to Buddhism. He traveled to India and Nepal seven times to study with Buddhist masters, most notably the mahasiddha Niguma, from whom he received the core teachings of the Shangpa Kagyu lineage.

Spiritual Contribution

Khyungpo Naljor transmitted the Six Dharmas of Niguma and other tantric teachings that became the foundation of the Shangpa Kagyu lineage. He established the monastery of Shang dorje dendup, which became the main seat of the Shangpa Kagyu tradition. His teachings emphasized rigorous meditation practice and the integration of tantric theory with direct experience.

Legacy and Impact

Khyungpo Naljor’s Shangpa Kagyu lineage preserved tantric teachings that were distinct from the more well-known Kagyu lineages founded by Marpa. Although the Shangpa Kagyu eventually became a smaller tradition, its teachings continue to be practiced and preserved, particularly in the Rimé movement.

Verification Notes

• Khyungpo Naljor’s dates and founding of the Shangpa Kagyu are documented in Tibetan historical sources.
• His lineage’s teachings are preserved in the Shangpa Kagyu canonical collections.