11 Dec, 2023
The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, serving as the highest-ranking monk in the Gelug school. The title "Dalai Lama" is a combination of the Mongolic word "Dalai," meaning ocean or big, and the Tibetan word "Lama," meaning guru or teacher.
According to Tibetan Buddhist belief, the Dalai Lama is considered to be the reincarnation of his predecessors. The search for each new Dalai Lama typically involves identifying a child who exhibits signs of being the reborn spiritual leader.
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, fled Tibet in 1959 following a failed uprising against Chinese rule. He established a government-in-exile in Dharamshala, India, where he and many Tibetan refugees continue to reside. The Dalai Lama advocates for the autonomy and human rights of the Tibetan people.
The Dalai Lama is known for his advocacy of nonviolence, compassion, and interfaith dialogue. He emphasizes the importance of promoting a sense of universal responsibility and understanding among individuals and nations.
In 1989, the Dalai Lama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his consistent efforts to find a peaceful solution to the Tibet issue through dialogue and nonviolent means. The Nobel Committee recognized his commitment to promoting human values, interreligious understanding, and global peace.
The Dalai Lama is a prolific author, having written numerous books on topics ranging from spirituality and ethics to science and global issues. He travels the world to engage in dialogues with leaders from various fields and to share his teachings on compassion, happiness, and the importance of inner peace.