The lineage of the Tai Situpas is traced back to one of the main disciples of the Buddha Shakyamuni, the Bodhisattva Maitreya, who will be the future Buddha. They are also one of the main unbroken Golden Rosary Mahamudra lineage holders. The Tai Situpas are closely connected to the Karmapas and the Twelfth Tai Situpa, Pema Dhonyo Nyinche, is a heart son of the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. “The essence and pith of the Lord Buddha’s teachings is Mahamudra, which is the jewel of contemplative practice and the profound instruction of the Kagyupa lineage. The Third Karmapa’s influence and benefit to the Kagyu lineage is incalculable and one of the many profound texts he composed is the Aspiration Prayer of Mahamudra, which arose from his own realisation. The prayer contains the entire path and view of Mahamudra, and it’s depth and beauty is unveiled in this line by line commentary by Chamgon Kenting Tai Situpa.” - From the foreword by Ven. Choje Lama Shedrup