Dalai Lama XIV The Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and is considered by followers to be the reincarnation of his predecessors. The current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the 14th in this line, born in 1935 in Taktser, Tibet. He has been a prominent advocate for peace, non-violence, and compassion, earning him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. After the Chinese annexation of Tibet in 1950, he fled to India where he established the Tibetan government in exile. His teachings and writings focus on the philosophy of Buddhism, interfaith dialogue, and the promotion of human values and rights. “My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.” |
Dalai Lama: A Detailed Summary
The Dalai Lama is the title given to the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born on July 6, 1935, in Taktser, Amdo, Tibet (now part of China). He has not passed away as of 2025 and continues to be an influential global figure advocating for peace, compassion, and human rights.
What He Is Known For
The Dalai Lama is best known as the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet and an advocate for nonviolence, compassion, and human rights. He fled to India in 1959 after the Chinese military occupation of Tibet and has since led efforts to preserve Tibetan culture and Buddhism while calling for peaceful dialogue with China. A recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, he has promoted secular ethics, interfaith harmony, and global peace. Despite stepping down from political leadership in 2011, he remains an important voice on issues of morality, mindfulness, and happiness.
Religion
The Dalai Lama is the leader of Tibetan Buddhism, specifically belonging to the Gelug school, which is one of the major traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. His teachings focus on compassion, wisdom, non-attachment, and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Books Written by the Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama has written numerous books on philosophy, meditation, compassion, and happiness. Some of his most well-known works include:
The Dalai Lama is the title given to the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, was born on July 6, 1935, in Taktser, Amdo, Tibet (now part of China). He has not passed away as of 2025 and continues to be an influential global figure advocating for peace, compassion, and human rights.
What He Is Known For
The Dalai Lama is best known as the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet and an advocate for nonviolence, compassion, and human rights. He fled to India in 1959 after the Chinese military occupation of Tibet and has since led efforts to preserve Tibetan culture and Buddhism while calling for peaceful dialogue with China. A recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, he has promoted secular ethics, interfaith harmony, and global peace. Despite stepping down from political leadership in 2011, he remains an important voice on issues of morality, mindfulness, and happiness.
Religion
The Dalai Lama is the leader of Tibetan Buddhism, specifically belonging to the Gelug school, which is one of the major traditions of Tibetan Buddhism. His teachings focus on compassion, wisdom, non-attachment, and the pursuit of enlightenment.
Books Written by the Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama has written numerous books on philosophy, meditation, compassion, and happiness. Some of his most well-known works include:
- The Art of Happiness – A guide to achieving lasting happiness and inner peace.
- The Book of Joy (with Archbishop Desmond Tutu) – A conversation on finding joy in the face of adversity.
- My Spiritual Journey – A personal memoir of his life and spiritual path.
- Beyond Religion: Ethics for a Whole World – Advocating for universal moral values beyond religious beliefs.
- How to See Yourself as You Really Are – A book on self-awareness and overcoming ignorance.
- The Universe in a Single Atom – A philosophical discussion on the relationship between science and spirituality.
- Freedom in Exile – His autobiography detailing his early life and exile from Tibet.
- An Appeal to the World – A message of peace, compassion, and human values.
- Happiness: A Guide to Developing Life’s Most Important Skill – Discussing Buddhist teachings on achieving a fulfilling life.
- The Heart of Meditation – Guidance on achieving mental clarity and enlightenment through meditation.
- “Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.”
- “My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.”
- “If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”
- “Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.”
- “Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.”
- “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.”
- “Do not let the behavior of others destroy your inner peace.”
- “Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.”
- “A truly compassionate attitude toward others does not change even if they behave negatively or hurt you.”
- “We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.”
Here are five prominent websites dedicated to the Dalai Lama:
- The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Organization: The Office of His Holiness the Dalai Lama
URL: https://www.dalailama.com/
Description: This is the official website providing comprehensive information about the Dalai Lama's life, teachings, schedule, and latest news. - Central Tibetan Administration – His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Organization: Central Tibetan Administration
URL: https://tibet.net/about-tibet/his-holiness/
Description: This page offers insights into the Dalai Lama's role within the Tibetan government-in-exile, including biographical details and his contributions to Tibetan society. - Mind & Life Institute
Organization: Mind & Life Institute
URL: https://www.mindandlife.org/
Description: Co-founded by the Dalai Lama, this institute focuses on the intersection of science and contemplative practices, fostering dialogues and research on the mind and consciousness. - Tibet House US
Organization: Tibet House US
URL: https://tibethouse.us/
Description: A cultural center dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture, as envisioned by the Dalai Lama, offering educational programs, exhibitions, and resources. - Foundation for Universal Responsibility of His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Organization: Foundation for Universal Responsibility
URL: https://furhhdl.org/
Description: Established with the Nobel Peace Prize awarded to the Dalai Lama, this foundation promotes initiatives in non-violence, human rights, and interfaith dialogue.
Here are the ten most popular YouTube videos on the topic of Dalai Lama:
- Dalai Lama's Secrets to a Healthy Mind and Body: Top 10 Rules for Success
Channel: Evan Carmichael
Aired: October 20, 2016 1:13:37 Youtube
Summary: Explores the Dalai Lama's teachings on inner peace, compassion, and the mind-body connection. Emphasizes the importance of nurturing warm-heartedness and applying these principles in daily life for greater fulfillment. - Mind & Life Conversations with the Dalai Lama - Session 1
Channel: Mind & Life Institute
Aired: October 30, 2019 1:31:42 Youtube
Summary: Discusses compassion, interconnection, and transformation with David Sloan Wilson, focusing on evolution and anthropology. Explores the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and modern science. - Dalai Lama - Interdependence, Ethics, and Social Networks
Channel: Mind & Life Institute
Aired: October 12, 2022 2:16:23 Youtube
Summary: Examines the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and its impact on marginalized communities. Discusses human cognition, intersubjectivity, and the challenges of AI in capturing complex human experiences. - Living a Meaningful Life
Channel: Dalai Lama
Aired: October 16, 2024 0:05:32 Youtube
Summary: The Dalai Lama reflects on finding true happiness through inner values like compassion, rather than material wealth or fame. Emphasizes the essence of living a meaningful life. - The Dalai Lama's Guide to Happiness | Part 1
Channel: Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris
Aired: February 16, 2023 0:47:53 Youtube
Summary: Dan Harris interviews the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, exploring practical strategies for happiness, dealing with difficult people, and the relevance of compassion in today's world. - Dalai Lama's guide to happiness
Channel: Sustainable Human
Aired: October 8, 2013 0:08:14 Youtube
Summary: Examines the relationship between Buddhism and happiness, offering insights into human behavior and values. Critiques materialistic Western lifestyles and their impact on happiness. - HOW TO HAVE A HAPPY & MEANINGFUL LIFE with His Holiness the Dalai Lama
Channel: Happiness & Its Causes
Aired: August 27, 2018 1:02:47 Youtube
Summary: The Dalai Lama shares his message of love, kindness, and compassion, discussing how to lead a happy and meaningful life. Includes an interactive Q&A session. - His Holiness the Dalai Lama speaks at Harvard
Channel: Harvard University
Aired: May 7, 2009 1:09:25 Youtube
Summary: The Dalai Lama discusses educating the heart and integrating compassion into teaching. Emphasizes the importance of secular ethics and the universal nature of human compassion. - Dalai Lama: The Meaning of Life
Channel: Big Think
Aired: September 28, 2009 0:03:51 Youtube
Summary: The Dalai Lama shares his perspective on the meaning of life, emphasizing the importance of happiness, compassion, and helping others. - The Dalai Lama: The Scientist
Channel: PeaceJam Foundation
Aired: November 15, 2016 1:33:45 Youtube
Summary: Explores the Dalai Lama's lifelong interest in science and his collaborations with researchers. Discusses the intersection of Buddhist philosophy and modern scientific inquiry. P