In a new book released on Tuesday, the 89-year-old Dalai Lama has revealed that his spiritual successor will be born outside of Tibet and China’s control. The Tibetan spiritual leader stated that his people’s aspiration for freedom cannot be indefinitely delayed.
The Dalai Lama wrote that he will reincarnate in the “free world” to continue his traditional mission as a voice for universal compassion, spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, and symbol of the Tibetan people’s aspirations.
China views Tibet as an integral part of its country and considers movements advocating greater autonomy or independence as threats to national sovereignty. Beijing has also insisted on appointing its own successor after the current Dalai Lama’s death, labelling him a “separatist.”
The Dalai Lama has denied advocating for Tibetan independence and argued for a “Middle Way” approach, which would grant the territory greater autonomy. He received numerous petitions from people in and outside Tibet requesting that his lineage continue, emphasizing that Tibetan people’s aspirations for freedom cannot be denied indefinitely.
According to historical lessons, if people remain permanently unhappy, they cannot have a stable society, the Dalai Lama wrote. This statement underscores the spiritual leader’s emphasis on ensuring his successor is born in a “free world” where he can continue carrying out his role as a symbol of hope and compassion for the Tibetan people.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/11/dalai-lama-says-successor-will-be-born-in-free-world-outside-of-china