5th Karmapa Dezhin Shegpa

Dezhin Shegpa, who identified himself as the 5th Karmapa at the moment of his birth, came as a child into the care of his former disciple, Kachö Wangpo, the 2nd Shamarpa.

It was characteristic of the 5th Karmapa that he demonstrated many miracles on his journeys through Tibet, Mongolia and China. He also taught tirelessly, a result of which, was the Chinese emperor, Tai Ming Chen, became his devoted disciple.

Thanks to his (the emperor’s) high level of realization, he was able to see the power field above his teacher's head and had a replica made in the shape of the Black Crown out of gratitude. Dezhin Shegpa and the Karmapas after him showed this during the infrequent Black Crown ceremonies, making the blessing from this power field accessible to many. Since then, the Black Crown has been an integral feature of the Karmapas.