The Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual leader, has expressed his hope to live for another 40 years, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma.
Speaking on the eve of his 90th birthday, he led thousands in prayers, chanting, drums, and horns, saying, “So far, I have done my best and with the continued blessings of Avalokiteshvara, I hope to live another 30 or 40 years, continuing to serve sentient beings and the Buddha Dharma”.
This statement comes after the Dalai Lama recently confirmed that he will have a successor chosen in accordance with “past tradition”, ending years of speculation about the centuries-old office.
In a video message, he said the Gaden Phodrang Foundation, established to preserve the institution, will have the power to recognize his future reincarnation. Tibetan Buddhist leaders will search for his successor, stressing that “no one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter”.
The 14th Dalai Lama emphasized that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue, citing numerous requests from Buddhists worldwide. “In accordance with all these requests, I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue,” he added. The Dalai Lama has received many messages from Tibetans and Buddhists globally, urging the continuation of the Dalai Lama’s legacy.
Tenzin Tsundue, a Tibetan writer and activist, described the Dalai Lama’s announcement as a “punch in the face” for China, which claims the power to appoint his successor. China has reiterated that the Dalai Lama’s succession must be approved by the central government in Beijing and carried out “by drawing lots from a golden urn”. However, the Dalai Lama has warned that using this method dishonestly would lack “any spiritual quality”.
The Dalai Lama’s confirmation of a successor has significant implications for Tibetans and Buddhists worldwide. His statement serves as a clarion call to his followers, reinforcing the importance of preserving their spiritual heritage against external pressures. As the world watches closely, the implications of this declaration are profound, with the future of Tibetan Buddhism hanging in the balance.