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Dalai Lama

Exploring the History & Present of the Dalai Lama

For Tibetan Buddhists, no living person on Earth is as spiritually significant as the Dalai Lama. Literally translated as “Ocean Teacher,” this holy title refers to the depth of his spirituality which is believed to be as great as the ocean. For those unfamiliar with Buddhism, questions about this person’s role and his selection might be numerous. Below are the answers you might be seeking.

Where Does the Dalai Lama Come From?

According to the beliefs of the Tibetan monks, the Dalai Lama is the reborn form of earlier lines of Buddhist teachers who are dedicated to the idea of bringing enlightenment to humanity. When one Dalai Lama dies, it is believed a new one is born. A search by the monks is then conducted to identify the new reincarnation. Sometimes this process can take years, despite the search normally being confined to Tibet.

The Role of the Dalai Lama

During most of their recognized existence, the Dalai Lamas were the heads of the Tibetan government. That role ended in 1959 when the Chinese took control of Tibet forcing the monks and the Dalai Lama to be exiled. Now the Dalai Lama is head of Central Tibetan Administration, the exiled form of the government. After fleeing, the monks and the Dalai Lama have lived in a section of northern India called Dharamsala

Current Dalai Lama

As of 2009, the current Dalai Lama was Tenzin Gyatso who was found after a four year search in 1937. He was already in charge of the Tibetan government when it was overrun by the Chinese. The current Dalai Lama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989 for his efforts to restore the Tibetan government and free it from China’s control. His attitude toward life and toward others can best be summed up in one of his quotes:

“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.”

Since 2008, he has expressed a desire to give up much of his political power so that he can lead a simpler life as a monk.

Whether you are a practicing Buddhist or not, the Dalai Lama’s role and the individual himself are fascinating. Learning more can only be beneficial.

14th Dalai Lama