• The Origin of Successions of Reincarnations
  

The phenomenon of a line of successive reincarnations proceeds from the Buddhist principle that sentient beings are reborn again and again. This is one of Buddhism's fundamental principles. Thus the phenomenon of a line of successive reincarnations is a phenomenon accepted by followers of Buddhism; it is a norm constant with the views of Buddhism. A Lama reincarnates in a successive line, and his disciples assume responsibility for his education and upbringing. As the reincarnation grows up and comes of age, he will in turn guide those students.

Among the world's countries it is only in Tibet that this tradition has emerged.

However, the tradition of a line of successive reincarnations didn't exist from the very beginning of Tibetan Buddhism. When Buddhism came to Tibet in the seventh century, this phenomenon had not yet originated. It began in the twelfth century with the first Karmapa Dusüm Khyenpa. The tradition grew stronger over the centuries to a point at which there were approximately a thousand different lines of reincarnation. There are three ways in which a reincarnation can be identified. The Lama himself may leave instructions that indicate his next reincarnation. Alternatively, a Lama who has attained a high level of realisation may be consulted on the issue of identifying the reincarnation. A further method is to invoke Dharma protectors to obtain assistance in finding the reincarnation.
In the line of the Karmapas, the majority of the reincarnations left written or oral instructions, but some left no instructions at all.

The Recognition of the Karmapas...