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When did Milarepa live?
Milarepa, also known as Jetsun Milarepa, was a Tibetan yogi and poet who lived in the 11th century. He was born in 1052 in the village of Kya Ngatsa in Tibet. His birth name was Mila Thöpaga, and he was the son of a wealthy family.
Milarepa's father died when he was young, leaving his family in the care of his uncle and aunt. However, his uncle and aunt were greedy and cruel, and they took advantage of Milarepa's family's wealth, leaving them impoverished. This experience deeply affected Milarepa and led him on a spiritual journey to seek enlightenment and inner peace.
At the age of 15, Milarepa's mother sent him to study black magic with a sorcerer named Lama Ngogpa. Under his tutelage, Milarepa became a skilled sorcerer and sought revenge against his uncle and aunt. However, after causing harm to innocent people, Milarepa realized the error of his ways and felt immense guilt. He sought out a spiritual master, Marpa the Translator, to guide him on the path of enlightenment.
Marpa accepted Milarepa as his disciple and put him through rigorous spiritual and physical training. Milarepa endured many hardships and challenges, but he persevered and eventually attained enlightenment. He became a renowned yogi and poet, traveling and teaching his spiritual insights to others.
Milarepa's teachings were based on the principles of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of compassion, mindfulness, and inner peace. He also wrote many poems, songs, and spiritual hymns, which are still revered and studied by many to this day.
Milarepa passed away in 1135 at the age of 84. However, his legacy and teachings continue to influence and inspire people around the world. He is considered one of the greatest spiritual masters in Tibetan history and is revered as a saint and a symbol of compassion and wisdom.