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The Dalai Lama’s Assurance on Reincarnation
In a recent video message, the Dalai Lama, the revered spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, confidently declared that he will be reincarnated after his death, ensuring the continuation of the Dalai Lama lineage. This announcement, made just days before he celebrates his 90th birthday, alleviated concerns that he might be the last spiritual leader of Tibet, a position that has existed for centuries.
Addressing a gathering in Dharamshala, India, during his birthday celebrations, the Dalai Lama emphasized the authority of a non-profit organization he founded, which will oversee the identification of his reincarnation. This statement directly challenges China’s claim that it will select his successor.
The Chinese government reiterated its position, stating that it must approve any reincarnation in accordance with traditional practices. In response, a spokesperson for the U.S. State Department stressed that they will continue to urge China to halt interference in the selection process and respect individuals’ religious freedoms.
The Dalai Lama, who escaped to India from Tibet following a failed uprising in 1959, is viewed by Beijing as a separatist. He has expressed a belief that his successor will be born outside of China and has encouraged followers to reject any candidates endorsed by Beijing. Previously, he had mentioned the possibility that there may be no successor at all.
“I affirm that the institution of the Dalai Lama will endure,” he stated in a video message, eliciting applause from over a hundred monks gathered in a library in Dharamshala. Renowned figures, including Hollywood actor Richard Gere, attended the event, which featured vibrant paintings of the Buddha and photographs of the Dalai Lama adorning the hall.
He also confirmed that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, the organization he established to uphold the Dalai Lama tradition, holds exclusive rights to recognize his reincarnation, consulting with leaders of various Tibetan Buddhist traditions.
Tibetan tradition asserts that the soul of a senior monk is reborn in a child after their death. The 14th Dalai Lama, born Lhamo Dhondup on July 6, 1935, was recognized as such at the age of two.
As one of the most influential religious figures globally, the Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his efforts in advocating for peaceful resolutions.
Potential Visit to Tibet
Regarding his health, Samdhong Rinpoche, a senior figure in the Gaden Phodrang Trust, reported that the Dalai Lama is in good condition but has not issued formal instructions about his succession. He indicated that the next Dalai Lama could be of any gender and nationality.
Penpa Tsering, leader of the Tibetan government-in-exile, mentioned that the Dalai Lama would be open to visiting Tibet if circumstances allowed and there were no restrictions from the Chinese government. This would mark the Dalai Lama’s first trip back to his homeland since 1959.
“The decision is largely in the hands of China,” Tsering stated, noting Beijing’s insistence that any visit would require the Dalai Lama to remain there indefinitely. He conveyed that the Dalai Lama’s stance is, “If I can go to Tibet and China, I will, but I will not stay there due to the lack of freedom.”
Chinese officials maintain that they hold the authority to approve the next Dalai Lama’s successor. They assert that their religious policies reflect a legacy from earlier imperial times.
In response, a U.S. State Department spokesperson emphasized their ongoing efforts to encourage China to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Dalai Lama and his representatives, advocating for genuine autonomy for the Tibetan people.
Furthermore, Tsering revealed that the U.S. has eased certain financial restrictions for Tibetans in exile, and the Tibetan administration is exploring alternative funding options. The ritual of selecting a reincarnation through the drawing of names from a golden urn dates back to 1793 during the Qing dynasty, underscoring the complexity and tradition surrounding this process.
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