The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, just celebrated his birthday according to the Tibetan calendar. At this transparency celebration, he re-confirmed that the institution of Dalai Lama will continue into the future. This resettlement announcement arrives against a backdrop of rising tensions over Tibet’s historic identity and autonomy under China’s repressive rule. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is 88 years old. Nor is it quite a succession, as he’s not appointed a successor but plans to consult high lamas of Tibetan Buddhism and the Tibetan public on the future of the institution when he turns 90.
At the religious conference in Dharamshala, senior Tibetan Buddhist leaders stood and took turns sharing their profound appreciation. They were honoring the Dalai Lama for his decades of inspiring leadership. To millions, he was more than a spiritual leader. They see him as a reformist and one who has been central in bringing together Tibetans all over the world since he fled Tibet in 1959. His dedication to raising awareness on Tibet’s plight has resulted in widespread global support.
The Dalai Lama’s statement is particularly significant given concerns regarding Beijing’s potential interference in his succession. Experts believe that the Chinese government is preparing to assume control over the process of picking the next Dalai Lama. This issue has already generated a good deal of outrage. In 1995, Beijing disallowed the Dalai Lama’s selection of a candidate for the Panchen Lama. Specifically, they installed their own, triggering panic over what action the next Dalai Lama might take.
A Commitment to Continuity
In an interview with the BBC during the celebration, the Dalai Lama made clear his desire to engage in dialogue with senior lamas. He’s promised to involve the Tibetan public in his reincarnation process. He added, “I want to assure you all that I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will remain.” Such a declaration calms the nerves of the millions of evangelicals. It frustrates any political machinations by Beijing that seek to denigrate this central pillar of Tibetan identity.
His leadership has been a cornerstone in the fight for Tibetan autonomy and freedom. His government-in-exile, known as the Central Tibetan Administration, has offered Tibetans around the world a means to represent their needs and desires. With the growing struggle for recognition and rights under Chinese rule, his role has become all the more important.
He condemned foreign interference in reincarnation. He focused much of his criticism on Chinese communists for their denial of past and future lives, proclaiming, “It is particularly unfit for them to interfere in the institution of reincarnation. This feeling reverberates in today’s discussion about his replacement.
Response from Tibetan Leaders
The senior Tibetan Buddhist leaders’ response could not have been more supportive of the Dalai Lama’s choice to further affirm his reincarnation. Together, they condemned any effort by the People’s Republic of China. Their aim was to stop reincarnation from being used as a political weapon. “We strongly condemn the People’s Republic of China’s usage of the reincarnation subject for their political gain and will never accept it,” they declared in a formal statement.
This unity among Tibetan leaders highlights their shared commitment to maintaining the sanctity of the Dalai Lama institution and resisting external pressures. They come together to express and assert the strength of Tibetan identity. An identity forged in the fires of political process, yes, but by profound cultural and spiritual praxis.
The Dalai Lama’s influence extends far beyond religious boundaries. He embodies hope for many Tibetans striving for autonomy and recognition. His skill in bringing together a fractious diaspora has been key in focusing global attention on Tibetans’ suffering.
The Future of Tibetan Buddhism
Debates over the future of Tibetan Buddhism are becoming increasingly contentious. The Dalai Lama’s ongoing consultations with senior lamas and the public reveal a strikingly democratic process occurring in the world’s least likely democracy. That’s important not just for honoring tradition, but recognizing changing challenges.
The continuation of this institution is vital for many Tibetans who view it as emblematic of their struggle against oppression. Part of the Dalai Lama’s legacy will be his success in building resilience among Tibetans, as well as encouraging awareness of their continuing plight since the Chinese takeover.
