When a Dalai Lama dies, an elaborate and mysterious procedure is carried out to find the male child who is his spiritual and physical reincarnation. It begins with the High Lamas consulting the Nechung Oracle and then they begin the search for the Lama’s reincarnation. But how do the High Lamas go about finding who it is?
In a process that usually takes about three years, the High Lamas go first to the holy lake of Lhama La-tso in central Tibet for guidance from Palden Lhamo, the guardian spirit of the lake, who has promised to protect the reincarnation line of the Dalai Lamas. There they meditate constantly and watch the lake for a sign or an indication of where the new Dalai Lama may be found.
Your organisation does not have access to this article.
Sign up today to give your students the edge they need to achieve their best grades with subject expertise
Subscribe
