Tens of thousands of Tibetan Buddhists gathered in Dharamshala, India, to celebrate the Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, joined by figures like Richard Gere. Despite monsoon rains, the spiritual leader appeared in traditional attire and addressed the crowd, reaffirming his commitment to peace and compassion. The week-long celebrations culminated on Sunday with the Dalai Lama assuring followers of his good health and announcing his intention to live for many more years. He also confirmed plans for a successor, a matter of contention with China.
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The Dalai Lama announced that the centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist institution will continue after his death, stating that the next Dalai Lama should be found and recognized through traditional Buddhist practices. He indicated that China should not interfere with the selection process, a stance likely to be met with opposition from Beijing, which claims the right to approve the next religious leader. This decision holds significant political weight for Tibetans, who oppose China’s control over Tibet and see the Dalai Lama as a symbol of their identity. It is expected that China will appoint its own Dalai Lama, which could lead to two rival figures.
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China’s official stance, as articulated by Li Decheng of the China Tibetology Research Centre, firmly rejects the Dalai Lama’s proposal for a foreign successor. This rejection is based on the assertion that such a reincarnation would violate Chinese law, religious tradition, and historical precedent. Li Decheng stated unequivocally that any such foreign reincarnation would not be recognized by China. The recent announcement by the Dalai Lama regarding his potential reincarnation outside of China prompted this official response and a forum explaining China’s position on the reincarnation process.
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In his new book, “Voice for the Voiceless,” the Dalai Lama definitively states that his successor will be born outside of China, in the “free world,” ensuring the continuation of his spiritual and political work. This declaration directly challenges Beijing’s assertion of the right to choose the next Dalai Lama, a move that further escalates the decades-long dispute over Tibet’s sovereignty. The book details the Dalai Lama’s extensive efforts to engage with Chinese leaders, while simultaneously highlighting the ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people. He expresses unwavering confidence in the Tibetan government-in-exile to continue the fight for Tibetan freedom.
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The concept of reincarnation has always been a fascinating and complex topic, especially when it involves a revered figure like the Dalai Lama. Recently, the Dalai Lama made the surprising statement that he is not considering reincarnation yet. This announcement has sparked a wave of speculation and discussions, particularly in the context of China’s influence over Tibet and the future of Tibetan Buddhism.
It’s interesting to ponder the possibility that the Dalai Lama may choose not to reincarnate at all. This decision seems to have political undertones, especially given the history of China’s interference in the search for the reincarnation of spiritual leaders like the Panchen Lama.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker