Will the Dalai Lama Discuss His Reincarnation on July 2?
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Synopsis
As the 14th Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, the anticipation regarding his reincarnation is palpable. With a special message planned for July 2, followers eagerly await insights on the sensitive topic of succession and the continuity of the Dalai Lama lineage amidst external pressures.
Key Takeaways
- The Dalai Lama's upcoming message on July 2 is highly anticipated.
- Concerns over China's influence on his reincarnation persist.
- His followers believe the next Dalai Lama may be found in India.
- The 15th Dalai Lama's succession remains a politically sensitive issue.
- The Dalai Lama emphasizes the autonomy of his reincarnation decision.
Dharamsala, June 26 (NationPress) As the esteemed leader of Tibetan Buddhism, the 14th Dalai Lama approaches his 90th birthday, he remains in good health, yet concerns over China's influence on his reincarnation persist. His followers are convinced that before his passing, his next incarnation may be discovered, likely in India, the birthplace of Buddhism, where he has lived for 66 years.
The president of the Tibetan government-in-exile, during a recent interview with Deutschlandradio in Berlin, highlighted key topics, including reincarnation. He announced that a special video message from the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is set to be released on July 2—just four days before he turns 90.
Many followers anticipate that this message will tackle the politically charged question of succession for the Dalai Lama lineage at the upcoming three-day 15th Tibetan Religious Conference in Dharamsala, gathering Buddhist leaders from all four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism: Gelug, Kagyu, Nyingma, and Sakya.
The future Dalai Lama, the 15th incarnation, is expected to maintain the unbroken lineage that has persisted for approximately 500 years, free from foreign influence. The Dalai Lama, regarded by millions as a living deity, has repeatedly stated, “My reincarnation is to be decided by myself; nobody has the right to decide about that.”
Moreover, he has said, “One day you will hear that the Dalai Lama has passed away, but I will return, even if the institution of the Dalai Lama is no longer recognized. I will be back.”
So, what is reincarnation? It is a process that should occur either through the voluntary choice of the individual or based on their karma, merit, and prayers. Hence, the individual who reincarnates holds the exclusive right to determine how and where they are reborn and how that reincarnation will be acknowledged, according to an official post from the Dalai Lama's website.
“When I reach 90, I will consult with high Lamas from Tibetan Buddhist traditions, the Tibetan public, and others who follow Tibetan Buddhism, to reconsider whether the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue,” the Dalai Lama stated in a post dated September 24, 2011.
“Based on that, we will make a decision. If it is concluded that the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama should continue and the recognition of the 15th Dalai Lama is necessary, the responsibility will primarily lie with the officers of the Dalai Lama's Gaden Phodrang Trust,” the post continues.
Additionally, the Dalai Lama has emphasized that apart from reincarnations recognized through legitimate means, no acknowledgment should be given to candidates selected for political motives by anyone, including those from China.
The US government has also made it clear through its 2020 Tibet Policy and Support Act that any interference from China will be addressed at an international level.
A significant aspect of the Act is the recognition of the Tibetan people as a distinct community with their own religious, cultural, linguistic, and historical identity. It states that Chinese policies are systematically undermining the ability of the Tibetan people to maintain their way of life.
In relation to reincarnation, a segment from His Holiness' latest book, ‘Voice for the Voiceless’, states, “Since the purpose of reincarnation is to continue the work of the predecessor, the new Dalai Lama will be born in a free world…”
Furthermore, it mentions, “His Holiness has received countless petitions and letters from a diverse range of Tibetan individuals—senior lamas from various Tibetan traditions, abbots of monasteries, Tibetan diaspora communities worldwide, and many prominent and ordinary Tibetans within Tibet—as well as Tibetan Buddhist communities from the Himalayan region and Mongolia, all requesting to ensure the continuation of the Dalai Lama lineage.”
In light of his 2011 statement and his recent book, his followers are eagerly anticipating a message from His Holiness regarding future actions before his birthday.
Born Tenzin Gyatson on July 6, 1935, in Taktser hamlet in northeastern Tibet, the current Dalai Lama was recognized at just two years of age as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama Thubten Gyatso.
He fled Tibet following a failed uprising against Chinese rule in 1959 and established his Tibetan government-in-exile here. The Dalai Lama has pursued a “middle-path” approach, advocating for greater autonomy for Tibet rather than complete independence. However, the Chinese government perceives him as a divisive figure intent on separating Tibet from China.
(Vishal Gulati can be contacted at vishal.g@ians.in)
Point of View
It is essential to approach the delicate matter of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation with respect and sensitivity, recognizing the historical and cultural significance it holds for Tibetan Buddhism and its followers. The looming influence of external political pressures only complicates this situation further, making it crucial for the narrative to honor the voices and beliefs of the Tibetan people.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Dalai Lama's reincarnation?
The Dalai Lama's reincarnation is deeply significant for Tibetan Buddhism, as it ensures the continuation of the lineage and teachings that have lasted for over 500 years, free from external influences.
When will the Dalai Lama's special message be released?
The Dalai Lama's special message is scheduled for release on July 2, just four days before he turns 90.
Where is the next Dalai Lama likely to be found?
Many believe the next Dalai Lama may be found in India, where the current Dalai Lama has lived for 66 years.
What is the Dalai Lama's stance on political interference in his reincarnation?
The Dalai Lama has stated that his reincarnation will be determined by himself, and any recognition of a candidate chosen for political reasons should not be accepted.
How does the U.S. government view the situation regarding Tibet?
The U.S. government has made clear its opposition to any interference from China concerning the Dalai Lama's reincarnation through its 2020 Tibet Policy and Support Act.
