The 5th Kenting Tai Situpa – Chokyi Gyaltsen Gelek Palzang

The 5th Kenting Tai Situpa (1586-1657) was born in the male fire-dog year. He was recognized by the 9th Gyalwa Karmapa, and from the Karmapa received all of the teachings.

The Red Crown

The 9th Karmapa bestowed upon the head of the 5th Kenting Tai Situpa a Red Vajra Crown of Radiant Gold, which mirrored the Karmapa’s own Black Vajra Crown. The Red Crown symbolizes the inseparability of the Karmapa and Kenting Tai Situpa. Through seeing the Red Crown, which is presented in a ceremony even today by the Kenting Tai Situpa, one is instantly and irreversibly set onto the path of enlightenment and receives the blessing of the Bodhisattva Maitreya.

The 5th Kenting Tai Situpa constructed Yermoche Kagyu Monastery, which housed hundreds of monks and had a stunning one-hundred sixty pillars in the main hall. Kenting Tai Situpa also restored numerous other temples in Tibet.

Kenting Tai Situpa traveled to Jangsadam at the invitation of the King and bestowed teachings to numerous devotees. He was also bestowed by he Chinese Emperor the titles “The Kindness Master who performs empowerments” and “The Master of Ming”, and many other gifts.

Signs of accomplishment appeared at Kenting Tai Situpa’s passing.