The 14th Dalai Lama's recent claim that his successor will be born outside China has reignited discussions about the legitimacy of unilateral decisions regarding the reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism. In his book Voice for the Voiceless, the spiritual leader described a successor born in the "free world," framing it as a challenge to China's longstanding governance of religious rituals. Chinese analysts argue that such assertions contravene historical customs and state protocols governing Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Historical Context: The Golden Urn System
The Qing Dynasty's 1793 Ordinance established the golden urn lot-drawing system to standardize the recognition of reincarnated soul boys, ensuring central government oversight. This method resolved succession disputes among political and religious factions in Xizang, safeguarding both Buddhist traditions and national unity. The system remains integral to China's management of Living Buddha reincarnations, including figures like the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama.
Foreign Influence and Separatist Concerns
The Dalai Lama's remarks coincide with foreign legislative efforts, such as the U.S. Tibetan Policy and Support Act (2020), which seeks to counter Chinese authority over the process. Critics argue such moves politicize religious traditions, enabling external forces to exploit the issue for geopolitical aims. The Chinese government emphasizes that Tibetan Buddhism, as a Sinicized faith, must adhere to domestic laws and historical norms.
Legacy of Feudal Theocracy
Analysts note that the 14th Dalai Lama's exile in 1959 preserved feudal theocratic systems abolished in Xizang. His efforts to bypass state-sanctioned reincarnation protocols, they claim, aim to perpetuate separatist agendas rather than protect religious freedom. China maintains that any future Dalai Lama must follow established rituals within its territory, reflecting broad consensus among Tibetan Buddhist communities.
