Particularly high-ranking figures from this group are styled the Tulku and have the ability to choose the manner of their (*) reincarnation.
The first of the tertöns was one of these figures, for whom the honorific Rinpoche is reserved. Many of these figures agree that the highest of the nine yana teachings, the Dzogchen, is the most profound of all. These figures represent the "root of blessing" or grace and, along with the protector and yidam, comprise the Three Roots, which are the Inner form of the Three Jewels. Particularly high-ranking figures from this group are styled the Tulku and have the ability to choose the manner of their (*) reincarnation. These figures are the teachers in the Kagyu, Sakya, Gelug, and Nyingma traditions. The Chinese don't recognize the 21-year old Gedhun Choekyi Nyima as the current second highest-ranking of them, the Panchen kind. The highest ranking of these figures has been in exile in India since 1959. For 10 points, identify these priests of Tibetan Buddhism, led by the "Dalai" variety.
The first of the tertöns was one of these figures, for whom the honorific Rinpoche is reserved.
lamas