Dalai Lama

Born July 6, 1935 / Takster, China / Spiritual Leader, Author. The 14th Dalai Lama was born, Lhamo Dondrub in 1935 and is the current Dalai Lama (as long as the longest-lived incumbent). The Dalai Lama is traditionally thought to be the successor in a line of “Tulka’s”, who are considered the custodians of a specific lineage of teachings in Tibetan Buddhism. The title and responsibilities of the Dalai Lama are an ancient and revered tradition spanning over 5 centuries. He is believed to be an incarnation of “Avalokitesvara”, a bodhisattva who embodies the compassion of all Buddhas and who continues to manifest on Earth through reincarnation for the benefit of all sentient beings. The Sanskrit name “Avalokitesvara” means “the lord who looks upon the world with compassion”.

There is a great deal that goes into finding each successive incarnation of the Dalai Lama with many elaborate and time-honored methods being employed to ensure the discovery and authenticity of each new incarnation. The Dalai Lama has not only been Tibet’s spiritual leader but its political authority as well up until September of 2001 when, after many years of working towards the democratization of Tibet, the people elected the political leadership of Tibet. In Tibet’s long history this has been the first real step towards a true democracy being established for the Tibetan people.

Since the election of The prime Minister by the people the tradition of the Dalai Lama as both the spiritual and temporal authority has ended. His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a man of peace. In 1989 he was awarded The Nobel Peace Prize for his non-violent struggle for the liberation of Tibet. He has consistently advocated policies of non-violence, even in the face of extreme aggression. The Dalai Lama is also a prolific writer having authored or co-authored over 110 books. His Holiness has traveled to more than 67 countries spanning 6 continents, sharing his message of peace, compassion, and non-violence.

For more information go to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama | The Office of His Holiness The Dalai Lama.