The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, has officially confirmed that he will reincarnate. ending speculation about the future of the 600-year-old spiritual lineage. In a video message from Dharamshala, India just days before his 90th birthday on July 6. he also said the next Dalai Lama could be a woman and must not be selected by the Chinese government.
Importantly, he declared that the Gaden Phodrang Trust, his official office in exile, will have sole authority over identifying his successor. This directly counters China’s long-standing claim that it can appoint the next Dalai Lama through state-controlled channels.
Traditionally, reincarnated lamas are identified through sacred visions, dreams, oracles, and rituals like the Golden Urn ceremony. However, the Dalai Lama’s latest statement brings a modern, merit-based approach.
He revealed that for over 14 years, Tibetans in exile, followers in Tibet. and devotees from Mongolia, Russia, and China have appealed for the continuation of the Dalai Lama institution. Responding to these global requests, he confirmed that the lineage will continue to guided by spiritual merit, not political boundaries or gender.
In a historic move, the Dalai Lama affirmed that his successor could be a woman. stating that gender should not be a barrier to spiritual leadership.Tibetan Buddhism already recognizes female tulkus, such as the revered Samding Dorje Phagmo. In the past, he’s even said, half-jokingly, that he could return as a woman if it serves humanity better.
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China has repeatedly claimed the right to control reincarnation in Tibet, but the Dalai Lama dismissed this. “No one else has any such authority to interfere,” he said, making it clear that only his trust can recognize his successor.
This declaration not only reinforces Tibetan spiritual sovereignty, but also sets a firm boundary against political interference. Tibetan activist Chemi Lhamo hailed the decision as a bold stand — and a powerful symbol of resistance
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