Dalai Lama Next Reincarnation: Can a woman become the Dalai Lama?

This statement of the Dalai Lama not only determines the future religious direction, but also raises a debate on the fundamentals of religion, gender, politics and reincarnation.

If this prophecy comes true, it will be a turning point in history, and will give a new vision to the whole world. What the 14th Dalai Lama has said in recent years is not just a religious thought, but a revolutionary rethinking of the traditional Tulku system of Buddhism. He himself has said that the next Dalai Lama can be an adult, and if the time is appropriate, a woman as well.

Is it just a matter of spiritual evolution, or a spiritual answer to China's political interference? Let us understand this shocking possibility in the context of scriptures, tradition and modern context.

Challenge to tradition! Why did Dalai Lama say that the next Dalai Lama could be a woman?

If a female Dalai Lama is more useful, then logically she should come. This statement was first given in 2009, and then repeated and clarified in 2015 and 2019.

This statement of Dalai Lama is completely opposite to the tradition in which the reincarnation of a child has been sought for centuries. This time he is saying that in the interest of religion, the spirit of service should rise above form and gender and be paramount.

Do the scriptures allow this?

Absolutely, in Mahayana Buddhism and Vajrayana tradition, there is no restriction on becoming a Bodhisattva on the basis of gender. There is also scriptural evidence for this:

It is said in Sariputra Sutra (Mahayana) that all sentient beings possess Buddha-nature, regardless of gender. An example of this is also found. Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo is a female yogini, who is recognized as female Tulku in the West. Yeshe Tsogyal is the main disciple of Guru Padmasambhava, who is also called the second Buddha.

Reincarnation as an adult? Is it possible?

According to the 14th Dalai Lama, If the institution is not helpful anymore, I may choose not to reincarnate at all. This means that he no longer considers the traditional rule of reincarnation as a child to be useful for religion.

If someone can take rebirth as an adult and serve immediately for the public good, then that form can also be valid. The Dalai Lama has repeatedly said that China can try to politically establish a new Dalai Lama in Tibet.

That is why he warned the world that people should not recognize any Dalai Lama chosen for political ends by China.

They link the spiritual right of reincarnation with sovereignty and self-determination. Which seems to be a big thing.

What all can change?

Possible changes Traditional rules Dalai Lama's suggestion
Gender Only male Female also possible
Age Only child is acceptable Adult is also possible
Reincarnation system stable Flexible, adaptable to time
China's role Tibetan tradition Chinese interference is invalid

What will happen if the Dalai Lama becomes a woman?

If the next Dalai Lama is born as a woman, it will be a revolutionary event not only in the history of religion, but also in the field of world leadership, politics, gender equality and religious renaissance. Which can have serious implications-

Revolution in global religious leadership

Historic moment of women empowerment in Buddhism

Challenge of political control over religious authority

Rethinking the age-old reincarnation identification process

FAQ
Q1. Has there ever been a female Dalai Lama before?

No, till now all the Dalai Lamas have been men, but there have been many female Bodhisattvas and Tulkus in the Mahayana tradition.

Q2. Is reincarnation possible in adult form?

Traditionally, a child has been searched for, but the Dalai Lama has indicated that if needed, the adult form can also be valid.

Q3. Is this a strategy against China's interference?

Yes, this is considered a spiritual warning against religious sovereignty and political interference of China.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is based only on beliefs and information. It is important to mention here that Kalamtimes does not confirm any kind of belief, information. Before implementing any information or belief, consult the concerned expert.