Dalai Lama Claims He May Be Last To Hold The Title, In Lieu Of Passing It Off To Someone ‘Stupid’

The Dalai Lama made an astonishing announcement to the world in a recent interview, claiming that he may be the last in line to hold the centuries old title. He stated that it may be better if the tradition ceased to exist any longer, unless there is a guarantee that he or she that steps up will not become a disgrace.

The news comes after a trying period for the current Dalai Lama, as China uses its clout to bully various world leaders from meeting with him. Even Pope Francis has chosen to distance himself from the Dalai Lama in order to maintain peace with China.

In an interview with BBC News, the Dalai Lama shared his concern over the future of the Dalai Lama Institute, stated India Today.

“The Dalai Lama institution will cease one day. These man-made institutions will cease. There is no guarantee that some stupid Dalai Lama won’t come next, who will disgrace himself or herself. That would be very sad. So, much better that a centuries-old tradition should cease at the time of a quite popular Dalai Lama.”

The Dalai Lama does not have final say whether he has a successor; a key part of the decision lies with Buddhism’s second highest religious figure, the Panchen Lama. However, the young boy who was chosen for that role in 1995 was cast aside by the Chinese government, and they chose their own Panchen Lama. The Dalai Lama’s choice is currently nowhere to be found.

Tenzin Gyatso, the real name of the current Dalai Lama, has been serving under the title since he was only 15-years-old, according to Time Magazine. When a Dalai Lama passes away, a new one is said to be reincarnated in the body of a young male. However, the current Dalai Lama seems to believe that even a female could hold the title one day.

The Dalai Lama has experienced many integral events in current history, and has become a respected figure for people of many religions. His work has even earned him the coveted Nobel Peace Prize.

Although he will leave the final decision regarding a successor up to the Tibetan people, his influence and opinion is not ignored among his followers.

One of the last legacies that the Dalai Lama hopes to leave behind is an encouragement of democracy in China, a huge feat against a country that seems to despise his existence. However, staying true to his peace prize acceptance, he is adamant to make a difference.

What are your thoughts on the Dalai Lama ending the institution that he currently leads?

[Photo Courtesy: Journal Neo]