It is one of the most sensitive political issues in China: who has authority in Tibet? Many Tibetans revere the Dalai Lama and support his goal of greater autonomy from Beijing.
But to Chinese officials, the exiled spiritual leader is a traitor.
The role of Dalai Lama has been filled for centuries through "reincarnation". The current Dalai Lama, the 14th, turns 80 this year, and Beijing is keen to control the process of finding the 15th.
But the present Dalai Lama has said the role will one day end. Better to have no Dalai Lama than "a stupid one".
http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-32032790
Well, this is some very interesting news. I found it very strange that even the current Dalai Lama can see an end to the cycle.
ReplyDeleteI think it's very interesting, the intersection of a religious belief such as incarnation, and the political struggles regarding China and Tibet.
ReplyDeleteThe followers of the religion must be anxious to see wether or not there will be a 15th Dalai Lama
ReplyDelete