Dalai Lama Plans Reincarnation for Successor After His Death

The Dalai Lama has confirmed that the Tibetan Buddhist institution will continue after his passing, putting an end to speculation about the future of the role. He emphasized the importance of finding and recognizing the next Dalai Lama according to Buddhist traditions, while also asserting that China should not interfere in the selection process.

The succession plan of the Dalai Lama holds significant political and spiritual implications for Tibetans who resist Chinese control and revere him as the embodiment of compassion. China, however, claims authority over appointing the next leader, leading to potential rival Dalai Lamas chosen by different factions.

Tenzin Gyatso, the current Dalai Lama, has been in exile since 1959 and has stated that his successor will be born outside China. He has entrusted the Gaden Phodrang Trust with the responsibility of identifying his reincarnation, emphasizing that no external entity should intervene in this sacred process.

Chinese authorities insist on overseeing the selection of the next Dalai Lama, citing domestic search principles and government approval. The Tibetan government-in-exile and supporters of the Dalai Lama have urged followers to reject any candidate endorsed by Beijing, emphasizing the importance of preserving Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

The search for the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama traditionally begins after his passing, with senior monks relying on spiritual signs to identify the successor. This process can take years before the next Dalai Lama is identified and prepared to assume the role.

According to the source: The Journal.