Dalai Lama Plans Reincarnation Process, Trust to Determine Successor

The Dalai Lama assured his followers that he would be reincarnated as the next spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism upon his death. He outlined a succession process that contradicts China's stance, putting an end to speculation about the lineage of spiritual leaders. The non-profit institution he established will have the authority to identify his reincarnation, opposing China's claim to choose his successor.

Chinese officials insist that Beijing must approve the successor's identity through a traditional ritual in China. The Dalai Lama, considered a separatist by Beijing, has stated that his successor will be born outside China, urging his followers to reject any candidate chosen by China.

The Dalai Lama confirmed the continuation of the institution of the Dalai Lama during a celebration in Dharamshala. He emphasized that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the sole authority to recognize his future reincarnation in consultation with Tibetan Buddhist tradition leaders.

According to Tibetan tradition, the soul of a senior monk is reborn in a child upon his death. The 14th Dalai Lama, born in 1935, is now a prominent religious figure globally, having received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.

Samdhong Rinpoche, a senior official of the Gaden Phodrang Trust, mentioned that the Dalai Lama has not given written instructions on the succession yet. The successor can be of any gender and is not limited to Tibetan nationality.

China claims the right to approve the Dalai Lama's successor based on imperial legacy. The selection ritual dates back to 1793 during the Qing dynasty. The U.S. has eased restrictions on funds for Tibetans in exile, showing support for Tibetan human rights.

According to the source: CNA.