The Shamarpa reincarnation lineage originates with the recognition of the first Shamarpa (who was considered to be a manifestations of the Buddha Amitabha) by the third Karmapa Düsum Khyenpa. After that various Sharmapas were very influential and served as lineage holders of the Karma Kagyü tradition. In the late 18th century the institution of the Shamarpa came to an abrupt end when, as a result of political circumstances, it was decreed by the tibetan government that the recognition and/or enthroning of anyone answering to the name of Shamarpa was strictly forbidden.