The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and is considered the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. The process of choosing the Dalai Lama is complex and steeped in tradition, and it is believed that the new Dalai Lama is found through a series of signs and visions.
When the Dalai Lama dies, a search committee is formed to find his reincarnation. The committee looks for a child who was born within a certain timeframe and who exhibits certain physical characteristics, such as a birthmark on the back of the neck. The child is also tested to see if he can recognize objects that belonged to the previous Dalai Lama.
Once a child has been identified as a potential reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, he is brought to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, where he is given a series of religious tests. If he passes the tests, he is officially recognized as the Dalai Lama and begins his training.
1. Reincarnation
The belief in reincarnation is central to the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is believed that the Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. This means that when the Dalai Lama dies, his spirit is reborn in the body of a new child.
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Facet 1: The Search for the Reincarnation
The search for the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is a complex and lengthy process. It is carried out by a committee of high-ranking lamas who are responsible for finding the child who is the true reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.
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Facet 2: The Signs of a Reincarnation
There are a number of signs that are used to identify the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. These signs include physical characteristics, such as a birthmark on the back of the neck, and behavioral characteristics, such as the child’s ability to recognize objects that belonged to the previous Dalai Lama.
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Facet 3: The Tests of a Reincarnation
Once a child has been identified as a potential reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, he is given a series of tests to confirm his identity. These tests include religious tests, such as the ability to recite Buddhist scriptures, and physical tests, such as the ability to withstand extreme cold.
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Facet 4: The Recognition of a Reincarnation
If the child passes all of the tests, he is officially recognized as the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. He is then brought to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, where he begins his training.
The belief in reincarnation is an important part of the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is a complex and lengthy process, but it is one that is essential for ensuring the continuity of the Dalai Lama lineage.
2. Search Committee
The search committee is a crucial part of the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is responsible for finding the child who is the true reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. The committee is made up of high-ranking lamas who are experts in Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan culture.
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Facet 1: The Role of the Search Committee
The search committee is responsible for overseeing the entire process of finding the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. This includes identifying potential candidates, conducting tests, and making the final decision.
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Facet 2: The Process of Finding a Reincarnation
The search committee uses a variety of methods to find the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. These methods include studying religious texts, consulting with oracles, and observing the behavior of children.
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Facet 3: The Tests for a Reincarnation
Once a potential candidate has been identified, he is given a series of tests to confirm his identity. These tests include religious tests, such as the ability to recite Buddhist scriptures, and physical tests, such as the ability to withstand extreme cold.
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Facet 4: The Decision of the Search Committee
After the tests have been completed, the search committee makes a decision on who is the true reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. This decision is based on all of the evidence that has been gathered, including the results of the tests.
The search committee plays a vital role in the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is responsible for ensuring that the new Dalai Lama is the true reincarnation of his predecessor.
3. Physical Characteristics
The search for the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is a complex and multifaceted process. One of the key aspects of the search is the identification of certain physical characteristics that are believed to be indicative of the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.
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Facet 1: Birthmarks
One of the most well-known physical characteristics that is looked for in the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is a birthmark on the back of the neck. This birthmark is said to be a mark of the bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who is the spiritual embodiment of the Dalai Lama.
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Facet 2: Other Physical Characteristics
In addition to the birthmark on the back of the neck, the search committee also looks for other physical characteristics that are believed to be indicative of the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama. These characteristics can include the shape of the child’s head, the color of his eyes, and the length of his fingers.
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Facet 3: Timeframe
The search committee also looks for a child who was born within a certain timeframe. This timeframe is determined by the date of the death of the previous Dalai Lama.
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Facet 4: Testing
Once a child has been identified who meets the physical criteria, he is subjected to a series of tests to confirm his identity. These tests include religious tests, such as the ability to recite Buddhist scriptures, and physical tests, such as the ability to withstand extreme cold.
The search for the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is a complex and multifaceted process. The identification of certain physical characteristics is just one of the many factors that are taken into consideration.
4. Religious Tests
Religious tests are an essential part of the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. These tests are designed to assess the child’s knowledge of Buddhist scriptures and his ability to perform religious rituals. The tests are also used to assess the child’s character and his ability to withstand the rigors of the Dalai Lama’s role.
The religious tests are administered by a panel of high-ranking lamas. The lamas ask the child a series of questions about Buddhist doctrine and philosophy. The child is also required to perform a number of religious rituals, such as reciting mantras and making offerings to the Buddha.
The results of the religious tests are carefully considered by the search committee. The committee looks for a child who has a deep understanding of Buddhist teachings and who is able to perform religious rituals with skill and devotion. The committee also looks for a child who has a strong character and who is able to withstand the rigors of the Dalai Lama’s role.
The religious tests are an important part of the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. They help to ensure that the child who is chosen is a true reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and that he has the knowledge and skills necessary to lead the Tibetan people.
5. Official Recognition
The official recognition of the Dalai Lama is a crucial step in the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is the point at which the child who has been identified as the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama is formally recognized as the Dalai Lama and begins his training.
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Facet 1: The Ceremony of Recognition
The ceremony of recognition is a public ceremony in which the child is formally recognized as the Dalai Lama. The ceremony is attended by high-ranking lamas, government officials, and members of the public.
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Facet 2: The Beginning of Training
Once the child has been officially recognized as the Dalai Lama, he begins his training. The training is rigorous and includes studies in Buddhist philosophy, Tibetan history, and the Dalai Lama’s role.
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Facet 3: The Role of the Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. He is responsible for teaching the Dharma, the Buddhist teachings, and for guiding the Tibetan people on their spiritual journey.
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Facet 4: The Importance of Official Recognition
The official recognition of the Dalai Lama is important because it ensures that the Dalai Lama is the legitimate spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. It also helps to ensure that the Dalai Lama’s training is rigorous and that he is prepared for his role.
The official recognition of the Dalai Lama is a key step in the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is a public ceremony that marks the beginning of the Dalai Lama’s training and his role as the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people.
FAQs on How to Choose the Dalai Lama
The process of choosing the Dalai Lama is complex and steeped in tradition. It is a fascinating topic that has generated many questions. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about how the Dalai Lama is chosen:
Question 1: How is the Dalai Lama chosen?
The Dalai Lama is chosen through a process of reincarnation. When the Dalai Lama dies, a search committee is formed to find his reincarnation. The committee looks for a child who was born within a certain timeframe and who exhibits certain physical characteristics, such as a birthmark on the back of the neck. The child is also tested to see if he can recognize objects that belonged to the previous Dalai Lama.
Question 2: Why is reincarnation important in the process of choosing the Dalai Lama?
Reincarnation is central to the process of choosing the Dalai Lama because it is believed that the Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. This means that when the Dalai Lama dies, his spirit is reborn in the body of a new child.
Question 3: What are the physical characteristics that the search committee looks for in the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama?
The search committee looks for a child who was born within a certain timeframe and who exhibits certain physical characteristics, such as a birthmark on the back of the neck. These physical characteristics are believed to be signs that the child is the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.
Question 4: What are the tests that the child must pass to be recognized as the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama?
Once a child has been identified as a potential reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, he is given a series of tests to confirm his identity. These tests include religious tests, such as the ability to recite Buddhist scriptures, and physical tests, such as the ability to withstand extreme cold.
Question 5: What is the significance of the official recognition of the Dalai Lama?
The official recognition of the Dalai Lama is important because it ensures that the Dalai Lama is the legitimate spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. It also helps to ensure that the Dalai Lama’s training is rigorous and that he is prepared for his role.
Question 6: What is the role of the Dalai Lama?
The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. He is responsible for teaching the Dharma, the Buddhist teachings, and for guiding the Tibetan people on their spiritual journey.
These are just a few of the many questions that people have about how the Dalai Lama is chosen. The process is complex and fascinating, and it is a testament to the rich spiritual traditions of Tibet.
Thank you for reading!
Tips on How to Choose the Dalai Lama
The process of choosing the Dalai Lama is complex and steeped in tradition. Here are a few tips to help you understand the process:
Tip 1: Understand the Importance of Reincarnation
Reincarnation is central to the process of choosing the Dalai Lama. It is believed that the Dalai Lama is the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. This means that when the Dalai Lama dies, his spirit is reborn in the body of a new child.
Tip 2: Know the Role of the Search Committee
When the Dalai Lama dies, a search committee is formed to find his reincarnation. The committee is made up of high-ranking lamas who are experts in Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan culture.
Tip 3: Be Aware of the Physical Characteristics
The search committee looks for a child who was born within a certain timeframe and who exhibits certain physical characteristics, such as a birthmark on the back of the neck. These physical characteristics are believed to be signs that the child is the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama.
Tip 4: Understand the Religious Tests
Once a child has been identified as a potential reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, he is given a series of tests to confirm his identity. These tests include religious tests, such as the ability to recite Buddhist scriptures, and physical tests, such as the ability to withstand extreme cold.
Tip 5: Recognize the Importance of Official Recognition
The official recognition of the Dalai Lama is important because it ensures that the Dalai Lama is the legitimate spiritual leader of the Tibetan people. It also helps to ensure that the Dalai Lama’s training is rigorous and that he is prepared for his role.
Summary:
The process of choosing the Dalai Lama is complex and fascinating. By understanding the importance of reincarnation, the role of the search committee, the physical characteristics, the religious tests, and the importance of official recognition, you can gain a deeper understanding of this unique process.
Selecting the Dalai Lama
The process of choosing the Dalai Lama is a sacred and meticulous endeavor, deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It involves identifying the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion. A search committee, guided by religious texts and spiritual insights, seeks a child who embodies the physical and spiritual qualities of the previous Dalai Lama.
Through rigorous testing and careful observation, the committee discerns the true reincarnation. This chosen child undergoes extensive training, preparing them for their profound role as the spiritual leader of Tibet. The official recognition of the Dalai Lama signifies their legitimacy and ensures the continuation of this ancient lineage.