Gampopa, also known as Dakpo Lharje, was a Tibetan Buddhist master who lived in the 12th century. He is considered to be one of the most influential figures in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and his teachings have had a profound impact on the development of the tradition.

One of the key teachings of Gampopa is the concept of the "four Dharmas of Gampopa", which are considered to be the core principles of his teachings. These four Dharmas are: turning the mind towards the Dharma, relying on a spiritual teacher, practicing the Dharma in daily life, and dedicating the merit of one's practice to the benefit of all beings.

The first Dharma, turning the mind towards the Dharma, refers to the importance of developing a genuine interest and commitment towards the Buddhist teachings. Gampopa emphasized the need for individuals to have a strong motivation and aspiration to attain enlightenment, as this is essential for spiritual progress.

The second Dharma, relying on a spiritual teacher, highlights the importance of having a qualified and trustworthy teacher in one's spiritual journey. Gampopa stressed the role of a teacher in guiding and supporting students on the path towards enlightenment. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful and humble attitude towards one's teacher.

The third Dharma, practicing the Dharma in daily life, emphasizes the need for individuals to integrate the teachings into their daily lives. Gampopa believed that true spiritual progress can only be achieved through consistent practice and application of the teachings in all aspects of life. He taught that it is not enough to simply study and understand the teachings, but one must actively practice them in order to see real transformation.

The fourth Dharma, dedicating the merit of one's practice to the benefit of all beings, highlights the importance of developing compassion and altruism. Gampopa believed that true spiritual progress is not just for one's own benefit, but also for the benefit of all beings. He taught that by dedicating the merit of one's practice to others, one can accumulate positive karma and contribute to the well-being of all sentient beings.

Overall, the teachings of Gampopa emphasize the importance of developing a strong spiritual foundation, relying on a qualified teacher, integrating the teachings into daily life, and cultivating compassion and altruism. These teachings continue to be relevant and influential in Tibetan Buddhism today, making Gampopa's legacy a significant and enduring one.