We belong to the Karma Kagyu tradition, which has its root in the Dorje Chang, from where the dharma passed onto the indian mahasiddha Tilopa I(988-1069). He gave the teachings to his disciple Naropa (1016-1100). From his disciple Marpa (1012-1097), the translator, the dharma was brought to Tibet.  Milarepa, the most important student of Marpa, gave the teachings to Gampopa, the root guru of the first Karmapa , Düsum Khyenpa. The Karmapas are the oldest lineage of "tulkus", bodhisattvas who are intentionally reincarnated. This lineage is unbroken till today, to H.H. the 17th Karmapa Urgyen Trinley Dorje.