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How did Naropa's teachings spread beyond India?

Naropa, also known as Naropa the Younger, was an Indian Buddhist master who lived in the 11th century. He is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of Buddhism, and his teachings have had a lasting impact on the development of Buddhism in India and beyond.

Naropa's teachings spread beyond India primarily through his disciples and followers. He had many students, both Indian and foreign, who were drawn to his teachings and became his devoted followers. These disciples, in turn, spread his teachings to other parts of Asia, including Tibet, Nepal, and China.

One of Naropa's most famous disciples was Marpa Lotsawa, a Tibetan translator and scholar. Marpa traveled to India to study under Naropa and spent many years learning from him. After returning to Tibet, Marpa began teaching Naropa's teachings to his own students, who then spread them further throughout Tibet and other neighboring regions.

Another important disciple of Naropa was Atisha Dipamkara, a renowned Buddhist scholar from Bengal. Atisha is credited with bringing Naropa's teachings to Tibet and playing a crucial role in the revival of Buddhism in that region. He also wrote several commentaries on Naropa's teachings, which helped to further spread his teachings and influence.

Naropa's teachings also reached China through the efforts of his disciple, Chetsun Senge Wangchuk. Chetsun traveled to China and translated Naropa's teachings into Chinese, making them accessible to a wider audience. His translations were highly regarded and played a significant role in the development of Chinese Buddhism.

In addition to his disciples, Naropa's teachings also spread through the establishment of monasteries and centers dedicated to his teachings. These centers served as hubs for the dissemination of his teachings and attracted many students and practitioners from different parts of the world.

Furthermore, Naropa's teachings were also spread through the use of written texts. Many of his teachings were written down by his disciples and later translated into different languages, making them available to a wider audience.

In conclusion, Naropa's teachings spread beyond India through the efforts of his disciples, the establishment of monasteries and centers, and the use of written texts. His teachings continue to have a profound influence on Buddhist practice and philosophy, and his legacy lives on through the many followers who continue to spread his teachings to this day.