What has the Dalai Lama said
Asked 5 days ago
Answer
The Dalai Lama has stated that he intends to reincarnate after his death, reaffirming the tradition of succession in Tibetan Buddhism. He declared that only his office or a non-profit he founded will have the authority to recognize his future reincarnation, explicitly rejecting any candidate chosen by the Chinese government. He has also said his successor could be born outside China, might be a girl, or that there might be no successor at all, but now confirms the institution will continue. He urges followers to reject anyone chosen by Beijing and maintains a commitment to non-violence and autonomy for Tibet, not full independence.
References
Earlier this year, the Dalai Lama said his successor would be born in the 'free world,' outside China. He has also said his successor might be a girl or that there might be no successor at all, but now confirms the institution will continue. He urges followers to reject anyone chosen by Beijing.
Since the 1970s, the Dalai Lama has maintained that he no longer seeks full independence for Tibet, but meaningful autonomy that would allow Tibetans to preserve their distinct culture, religion, and identity. His commitment to the non-violent middle-way approach has earned him international support and the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.