The Dalai Lama blog

2010-10-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

PRESS STATEMENT OF HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA ON LIU XIAOBO BEING AWARDED THE 2010 NOBEL PEACE PRIZE on the 20th Anniversary of the Tiananmen Square (Published: Friday, 8 October, 2010)I would like to offer my heart-felt congratulations to Mr. Liu Xiaobo for being awarded this year’s Nobel Peace Prize.Awarding the Peace Prize to him is the international community’s recognition of the increasing

2009-12-30T09:30:00.000-08:00

China has sentenced a revered Tibetan living Buddha to eight-and-a-half years in jail on charges of illegally occupying government land and possession of weapons.China has sentenced a revered Tibetan living Buddha to eight-and-a-half years in jail on charges of illegally occupying government land and possession of weapons.The court in the western town of Kangding handed down the conviction more

..."my main aim is to provide education to the younger Tibetan people..."

2009-12-19T07:45:00.000-08:00

During a press conference on Friday, the Dalai Lama said, "I am acting here like a free spokesman for Tibet and my main aim is to provide education to the younger Tibetan people.""We are political refugees. We are carrying out certain duties on behalf of six million Tibetan people," he said.The Dalai Lama has lived in exile in India since fleeing China in 1959.This full story is available on the

Thich Nhat Hanh in Hospital with Pneumonia

2009-08-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

Thich Nhat Hanh in Hospital with PneumoniaZen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh is in Massachusetts General Hospital being treated for pneumonia.Update: Brother Thay has fully recovered and resumed his scheduled.Our brother and teacher, the Venerable Thich Nhat Hanh, is presently in Massachusetts General Hospital with an infection of pseudomonas aeruginosa (wiki), which is a serious but treatable pathogen.

His Holiness considers a temporal and spiritual leader for Tibet

2009-06-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

"The Dalai Lamas held temporal and spiritual leadership over the last 400-500 years. It may have been quite useful. But that period is over..."- The Dalai LamaIn a speech that underscored the pressures he has had to bear during his life serving as both a spiritual and political leader, the Dalai Lama has said there is no need for his successor to perform the two roles."Today, it is clear to the

"...the Chinese are awaiting my death ..."

2009-06-13T09:41:00.000-07:00

I am getting old, and the Chinese are especially preoccupied with that!They are awaiting my death...During his recent Europe tour, the Dalai Lama gave talks on "Compassion in Turbulent Times" to large gatherings. Speaking to the press, however, he bluntly decried conditions in Tibet as a "hell on earth," and spoke of official Chinese "cruelty." He repeated a statement he made in Rome in February

His Holiness's Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the Tiananmen Square

2009-06-06T10:03:00.000-07:00

His Holiness's Statement on the 20th Anniversary of the Tiananmen Square (Published: Wednesday, 3 June, 2009) On the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square students’ democracy movement, along with others who take an interest in Chinese affairs, I respectfully honour those who died expressing the popular demand for the government to be more accountable to its people.The students

2009-06-06T09:05:00.000-07:00

His Holiness the XIVth Dalai Lama hits out at China 'death sentence'"Since March 2008 I have the feeling that a very old nation and its heritage and culture have received a death sentence." The Dalai Lama said Saturday that China has imposed a "death sentence" on Tibet as he arrived in Paris for a visit that China has strongly opposed.The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader is to be named an honorary

Archbishop Tutu slams S. African Finance Minister

2009-03-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

"I believe religious, social and political leaders throughout the world have a responsibility to ensure principles triumph over the obsession with money and power." - the Dalai LamaAnglican Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu has slammed both Finance Minister Trevor Manuel and the ANC government for their handling of the Dalai Lama affair.Archbishop Tutu referred to Manuel's "belittling" comments

China lying to President Obama about Tibet issues

2009-03-25T15:54:00.000-07:00

"Did we make a demand that all non-Tibetans be expelled from the plateau of Tibet?Never."The Dalai Lama's chief negotiator said Wednesday that China lied to President Barack Obama on Tibet and said the spiritual leader would set the record straight when he visits the White House.Obama, meeting this month with China's top diplomat, nudged Beijing gently over its treatment of Tibet and voiced hope

Dalai Lama denied access to Johannesburg peace conference

2009-03-22T23:21:00.000-07:00

South Africa has barred Tibet's spiritual leader the Dalai Lama from entering the country to take part in a peace conference, media reports and a lobby group said on Sunday.The Dalai Lama was to join fellow Nobel Peace Prize laureates Desmond Tutu, Martti Ahtisaari and FW de Klerk, as well as Norway's Nobel Peace Committee, at the conference scheduled for March 27, the Sunday Independent

March 10th Statement of H.H. the Dalai Lama

2009-03-10T14:10:00.000-07:00

March 10th Statement of H.H. the Dalai LamaPublished: Monday, 9 March, 2009Today is the fiftieth anniversary of the Tibetan people’s peaceful uprising against Communist China’s repression in Tibet. Since last March widespread peaceful protests have erupted across the whole of Tibet. Most of the participants were youths born and brought up after 1959, who have not seen or experienced a free Tibet.

China tensions high after Tibet monk sets himself alight

2009-02-28T10:08:00.000-08:00

Monk walks out of temple carrying image of Dalai Lama and set himself on fire.Tensions were high in a flashpoint town of southwest China Saturday after a Tibetan monk set himself on fire in protest against Chinese rule, activist groups and residents said.Chinese authorities confirmed a man had set himself alight, but did not acknowledge claims by activist groups that police shot the monk and that

Display the Tibetan Flag on March 10, 2009

2009-02-18T10:18:00.000-08:00

Spotted recently on the Students For Tibet web site was a post inviting people to display a Tibetan flag on March 10, 2009. This seemed a spectacular idea to draw additional attention to the Tibet issue, so we are reprinting their article here and linking to their site.But first - in taking that a step further ... we would like to encourage all bloggers and webmasters to display an image of the

China closes Tibetan areas to foreigners

2009-02-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

March 10 marks the 50th anniversary of a failed rebellion in Tibet against Chinese rule. The Dalai Lama was forced to flee into exile in India after the uprising was crushed.(AP) (Beijing) Swaths of western China that have large Tibetan populations have been declared off limits to foreign visitors, local officials confirmed Thursday, ahead of the politically sensitive 50th anniversary of a failed

China has released detention and conviction details of Tibetan rebels

2009-02-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

BEIJING: China has released details of detention and conviction of Tibetan rebels at a time when the UN Human Rights Council is examining Beijing's records on this sensitive issue. According to the data released, 76 people involved in rioting during the March 14 violence in Lhasa, have been sentenced by the courts while 950 have been detained. [more]

Dalai Lama warns of potential for violence in Tibet

2009-02-11T08:21:00.000-08:00

"As soon as people are arrested, (the Chinese Government) use torture, and sometimes (the Chinese Government) kill them. Since public execution is difficult, they use torture when Tibetans are detained. " - The Dalai LamaThe beginning of March will mark 50 years since the Dalai Lama fled from Lhasa and Chinese troops poured into the city. The Chinese authorities have already announced that there

Fake Dalai Lama Twitter account closed, reopened

2009-02-10T10:08:00.000-08:00

Microblogging service Twitter has suspended an account that claimed to be run by the Dalai Lama, according to an Agence France-Presse story.The account purporting to belong to the Tibetan spiritual leader was only a few days old, but had already attracted tens of thousands of followers. To date, it's probably the most high-profile case of a bogus Twitter account actually getting the boot from the

Dalai Lama Made A Citizen of Rome, Honored for His Non-Violence

2009-02-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

''We all join you in strongly urging the full recognition of the autonomy of the Tibetan nation, a right which is totally in accordance with the principles of the Chinese constitution..." - Rome Mayor Gianni AlemannoRome, Italy, 9 February 2009 (ANSA) - The Dalai Lama on Monday became an honorary citizen of Rome and Tibet's spiritual leader took advantage of the occasion to renew his commitment

Dalai Lama is fine, and is at home resting

2009-02-03T07:42:00.000-08:00

The Dalai Lama has arrived at his palace in Dharamsala and, according to his aid, Tenzin Taklha, "is fine". His Holiness is expected to begin a four day visit of Europe on Sunday."...he will visit Rome and Venice in Italy and then Germany where he will receive the German Media Prize,” said his aid.

Press Release from the office off HH the Dalai Lama

2009-02-02T11:47:00.000-08:00

Press ReleaseHis Holiness the Dalai Lama had been experiencing some mild discomfort in one of his arms over the last three days. On the advice of his personal physician, His Holiness left Dharamsala early this afternoon and arrived in New Delhi. After undergoing medical tests at Apollo Hospital, His Holiness left the hospital early this evening after having been diagnosed to be suffering from a

Dalai Lama hospitalized, then discharged

2009-02-02T10:12:00.000-08:00

"This morning (Monday) His Holiness (the Dalai Lama) was admitted to Apollo Hospital after complaining of a mild discomfort in one of his arms," Tenzin Taklha, a senior aide to the leader said.DHARAMSALA: Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama was admitted to Apollo Hospital in New Delhi Monday and discharged later, his aide said.He said the spiritual guru was discharged in the evening after

Dalai Lama's New Year message to Chinese people

2009-01-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

On the occasion of the Chinese New Year, or the Spring Festival, I extend my affectionate greetings to all our Chinese brothers and sisters across the globe, including those living in Mainland China.The past year witnessed many developments throughout the world and particularly in China, at times worrying us while

Dalai Lama offers prayers and unveils Buddha idol

2009-01-20T07:41:00.000-08:00

"In this growing era of materialism, it is the responsibility of everybody in the world to revive the spirit of Buddhism that taught tolerance, ahimsa (non-violence), peace and truth."GULBARGA: Religious fervour and gaiety marked the unveiling and consecration of the gold-coated, 400-kg ‘panchaloha’ Buddha idol in a sitting posture, at the newly-constructed Buddha Vihar on the city's outskirts

#3: China is at is again: China to Celebrate "Serf Emancipation Day"

2009-01-19T09:45:00.000-08:00

"... the central government foiled an armed rebellion staged by the Dalai Lama and his supporters, most of whom were slave owners attempting to maintain serfdom."-Xinhua [wiki], the official state news agency of ChinaOn March 28, 1959, the Chinese Communist Party announced the creation of the Tibet Autonomous Region and dissolved the old Tibetan government. Legislators in Tibet passed a bill on

"It is difficult to deal with terrorism through non-violence"

2009-01-17T08:46:00.000-08:00

"It is difficult to deal with terrorism through non-violence"The Dalai Lama, a lifelong champion of non-violence candidly stated that terrorism cannot be tackled by applying the principle of ahimsa because the minds of terrorists are closed."It is difficult to deal with terrorism through non-violence," the Tibetan spiritual leader said delivering the Madhavrao Scindia Memorial Lecture here."They

Lack of spirituality cause for financial crisis

2009-01-13T19:38:00.000-08:00

“People have become selfish and materialistic,which has led to the economic slowdown...”The Dalai Lama, Tibet’s exiled spiritual leader, blamed a lack of spirituality among people today for the global financial crisis.The Buddhist monk, speaking during a weeklong religious seminar in the Indian holy city of Varanasi, told followers that “rampant corruption in the world” is due to a decline in

Honorary Citizen of Rome

2009-01-13T19:36:00.000-08:00

Dalai Lama invited to receive Rome honourRome's city government announced Tuesday that it has invited Tibet's exiled spiritual leader the Dalai Lama to visit next month to be named an honorary citizen of the Italian capital."He has not yet confirmed whether he can come," said a spokesman for the city governed by right-wing Mayor Gianni Alemanno.The city council had adopted in September a motion

"I am greatly encouraged by the launching of a Charter ’08 ..."

2008-12-13T15:28:00.000-08:00

Statement From His Holiness the Dalai LamaPublished: Thursday, 11 December, 2008I am greatly encouraged by the launching of a Charter ’08 by academics, artists, farmers and lawyers in China on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Their call for political, legal and constitutional reform is admirable.I personally believe that President Hu Jintao’s

Dalai Lama meets Polish President

2008-12-11T07:09:00.000-08:00

The XIV Dalai Lama, Tibet’s holy and political leader, had an unplanned visit to President Lech Kaczynski on Wednesday.No official comment was issued by either side after the meeting but earlier Wednesday Kaczynski's press service had announced it would take place.The Presidential Chancellery informed that the meeting was of a private nature and lasted for some thirty minutes.The Dalai Lama’s

The Dalai Lama in a Carmelites convent

2008-12-09T08:19:00.000-08:00

Found on the Polish Radio web site.Continuing his tour of Poland, The Dalai Lama has visited a Carmelites Convent in the south-western city of Wroclaw [map]. He talked to a group of twenty nuns in the presence of the local bishop. According to a press spokesman for the Wroclaw Curia, the meeting with a Buddhist monk was of a highly symbolic dimension for the Carmelites who are a contemplative

The Dalai Lama blames “greed” for financial crisis

2008-12-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

After addressing an overflowing house of European Parliament December 4, the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan spiritual leader, appeared at a joint press conference with Hans-Gert Poettering, the President of the only directly elected European institution, the European Parliament.Answering a question about economic crisis, the spiritual leader explained the ongoing market crisis around the world. Saying,

H.H. the Dalai Lama Extends His Condolence To Terrorist Attack Victims

2008-11-29T22:22:00.000-08:00

Published: Friday, 28 November, 2008Dharamsala, HP, India, 28 November 208 (tibet.net) - His Holiness expressed “deep shock and sadness over the Mumbai terrorist attack that has resulted in the loss of many precious lives and injury of many others” in a letter addressed to the prime minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, dated 27 November 2008. The attacks occurred at around 9 pm on the 26th of

Terror attacks in Mumbai

2008-11-26T16:41:00.000-08:00

Our prayers are with the people of India who are affected by the attacks in Mumbai. More: Times of India, ABC News, CNN

#2: China is at is again: Postpones summit with EU over Dalai Lama visit

2008-11-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

I sit in my chilly home far out of reach from the Chinese government and can, without fear of retaliation, share my opinion on actions taken by them. But we cannot forget that there are millions who would be put in prison for writing this blog, so the actions of this government should be carefully observed and commented on by any who have an opinion to share.Similar idiocy:• China Bans

Special Message of HH The Dalai Lama for Tibetans In and Outside Tibet

2008-11-14T10:07:00.000-08:00

Special Message of HH The Dalai Lama for Tibetans In and Outside TibetPublished: Friday, 14 November, 2008While sending my greetings to all Tibetans in and outside Tibet, there are a few important issues I would like to present to you.Since I was very young, I realized that the transformation of our governance into a democratic system was of utmost importance for Tibet's immediate and long-term

China is at it again: "will not like" anyone who participates in the Dalai Lama's six day meeting in India.

2008-11-13T09:20:00.000-08:00

From my perspective, many thousands of miles removed from the situation, it is easy to be a little flip about this news report. But that should not undermine the significance (and, perhaps, idiocy) of this request from the Chinese government (remember this one?).This is from a story in the The Times of India.China wants India to block Dalai Lama's Dharamshala meet BEIJING: China on Thursday made

Clarifications on H.H. the Dalai Lama's Remarks

2008-10-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

Clarifications on H.H. the Dalai Lama's RemarksPublished: Tuesday, 28 October, 2008During celebrations of the 48th founding anniversary of the Tibetan Children's Village on 25 October here in Dharamsala, His Holiness the Dalai Lama made some remarks on the issue of Tibet that are now being quoted out of context in some media reports. Consequently, to clarify the situation we are issuing the gist

"As far as I'm concerned I have given up" - The Dalai Lama

2008-10-26T12:04:00.000-07:00

On Saturday the Dalai effectively ended his fifty year struggle to find a "middle way" in dealing with the Chinese occupation of Tibet, and has strengthened his description of the state of his retirement."So far I have been sincerely pursuing the mutually beneficial Middle-Way policy in dealing with China for a long time now but there hasn't been any positive response from the Chinese side," the

AP/YouTube video: Dalai Lama leaves hospital (0:44)

2008-10-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The Dalai Lama left hospital in India's capital on Thursday after recovering from successful surgery to remove gallstones, officials said.The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader waved at people waiting outside the hospital before getting into a black Mercedes and being driven away."The treatment (was) very, very successful, now I am returning," a smiling Dalai Lama told Reuters

Dalai Lama to guide mummifying Lobsang Nyima Rinpoche

2008-10-15T07:37:00.000-07:00

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama will guide the mummifying of the body of the Mundgod monk, Lobsang Nyima Rinpoche [wiki] in Karnataka, who is believed to have remained for 18 days in "Thukdham," a stage of life after death where the body lies in meditative state without decomposing, and it is commonly practiced by high lamas of Tibetan Buddhism after physical death. It is also said that

Dalai Lama resting after gall stone removal (Media Statement)

2008-10-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

Media StatementPublished: Friday, 10 October, 2008His Holiness the Dalai Lama underwent a successful removal of gallstones this morning at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, which is a simple routine procedure. He will rest a few days in New Delhi before returning to Dharamsala.His schedules, including travel programmes, remain unchanged.Office of His Holiness the Dalai LamaDharamsala10 October

President Bush calls Dalai Lama

2008-09-24T10:14:00.000-07:00

United States Department of StateFrom the transcript of the Daily Press BriefingRobert Wood, Deputy SpokesmanWashington, DCSeptember 23, 2008 QUESTION: What could you tell us about President Bush making a call to the Dalai Lama this morning?MR. WOOD: Yeah. My understanding is that the President called the Dalai Lama to inquire about his health. As you probably know, the Dalai Lama recently

Dalai Lama cancels engagements to rest

2008-09-14T11:43:00.000-07:00

StatementPublished: Saturday, 13 September, 2008His Holiness the Dalai Lama is back in Dharamsala after undergoing medical tests and treatment following some discomfort recently.The physicians have informed His Holiness that his general health condition is good but strongly advised him to curtail his travel schedule. In the immediate future the physicians have advised him to take good rest

Dalai Lama's Brother dies

2008-09-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Thubten J. Norbu, the eldest brother of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, died on Friday, September 5, 2008. He was not only a retired Indiana University professor, but was an ambassador for Tibet and human rights around the world.Born in 1922 in the small village of Taktser in Amdo province to Choekyong Tsering, later known as Gyayab Chenmo (1899-1947), and mother Dekyi Tsering, later known as

Dalai Lama to leave hospital

2008-08-31T21:21:00.000-07:00

Although confirmation is pending from the office of His Holiness, we found this report today on the AFP web site, which is being widely distributed across the internet:"His Holiness is feeling much better. As a result, he will be discharged tomorrow."The Dalai Lama is to be discharged from a Mumbai hospital on Monday, four days after the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader was admitted with "

Dalai Lama to cancel all events for next three weeks

2008-08-27T11:45:00.000-07:00

Press ReleasePublished: Wednesday, 27 August, 2008His Holiness the Dalai Lama has been experiencing some discomfort in the past couple of days. His personal physicians attributed this to exhaustion and have advised him to cancel his engagements for the time being and instead complete the remaining medical tests that began earlier this month in Mumbai. It has therefore been decided that all his

Why President Bush is going to Beijing

2008-07-24T10:56:00.000-07:00

"And by the way, as you know, I'm the first president ever to have stood up publicly with the Dalai Lama, and told President Hu Jintao I was going to. And he wasn't that pleased about it, but nevertheless, I said I believe in a religious freedom, Mr. President."At a news conference during last week's G-8 summit in Japan, President Bush explained why he's attending the opening ceremonies of the

2008-07-07T21:12:00.000-07:00

The International Campaign for Tibet has invited us to add this information to our web site:With just weeks left before the Olympic Games, a major Chinese government crackdown is taking place in Tibet, and a climate of fear grips the region. This spring, Tibetans began escalating protests against the repressive policies of the Chinese government and its harsh campaign against the Dalai Lama.

KT Tunstall to meet HH The Dalai Lama

2008-06-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

From the Daily Record:Scottish singer KT Tunstall has finally found a gap in her schedule to meet the Dalai Lama. She had been invited to meet him in April, but had to turn down the offer because it clashed with tour dates. As she kicked off the Isle of Wight music festival at the weekend, KT said: "I'm going to meet the Dalai Lama in Philadelphia. It's going to be a real highlight in my life."•

Dalai Lama donates to Myanmar cyclone victims

2008-06-11T14:36:00.000-07:00

THE TIBETAN spiritual leader in exile, His Highness the Dalai Lama has donated a total of Rs 5.5 lakhs for relief and reconstruction work for victims of Cyclone Nargis, in Myanmar.Over 1, 34,000 people perished and went missing while 2.5 million were rendered homeless after the killer cyclone lashed Irrawaddy [wiki] and Rangoon [wiki] division in Myanmar. Victims of the natural disaster are still

Dalai Lama Offers Advice Concerning Dolgyal (Shugden)

2008-05-31T09:28:00.000-07:00

Following a long and careful investigation, His Holiness the Dalai Lama has strongly discouraged Tibetan Buddhists from propitiating the fierce spirit known as Dolgyal (Shugden). Although he once practiced Dolgyal propitiation himself, His Holiness renounced the practice in 1975 after discovering the profound historical, social and religious problems associated with it. His Holiness has regularly

Chinese 'propaganda' portrays me as 'devil': Dalai Lama

2008-05-26T09:13:00.000-07:00

LONDON (AFP) — The Dalai Lama has said he was saddened that Beijing's state "propaganda" had left many Chinese considering him a "devil with horns".On the first of five days of talks and teachings in the central English city of Nottingham, the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader said Beijing's control over information left millions thinking he was a "demon".Emotional human values were lacking in

Dalai Lama extends deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences to Chinese

2008-05-13T22:17:00.000-07:00

I am deeply saddened by the loss of many lives and many more who have been injured in the catastrophic earthquake that struck Sichuan province of China. I would like to extend my deep sympathy and heartfelt condolences to those families who have been directly affected by the strong earthquake on 12 May 2008. I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and those injured in the quake.

Dalai Lama’s envoys to hold talks in Beijing

2008-05-03T11:17:00.001-07:00

The Chinese government and the Dalai Lama’s representatives will meet in Beijing on Saturday to discuss the “current crisis” in Tibet and ways to bring peace to the region.The talks are taking place more than a week after China decided to open a dialogue with the Dalai Lama.The Dalai Lama’s special envoy Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari and envoy Kelsang Gyaltsen will hold “informal talks” with the

Dalai Lama in Seattle (Seattlepi.com article)

2008-04-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

At the KeyArena panel discussion, (The Dalai Lama) said that the practice of compassion "brings inner strength, calmness, less fear ... and, of course, sound sleep. I love my sleep," he said as the audience laughed.Thousands turn out; Dalai Lama avoids politicsSEATTLE (AP) — In his first public appearances since arriving for a five-day conference on compassion, the Dalai Lama made no mention of

Olympic torch closing ceremony at SF waterfront canceled

2008-04-09T15:55:00.000-07:00

By Associated Press, Stephen Magagnini and Todd MilbournOfficials say the planned closing ceremony Wednesday for the Olympic torch at the San Francisco Bay waterfront is canceled and another one will take place at an undisclosed location.The altered plans appeared to be prompted by security concerns with thousands of protesters gathered along the relay route at the waterfront. The flame's only

Tibetan monks to China: "We want more freedom, more human rights and we want to see the Dalai Lama"

2008-04-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

From an article on the AFP web site:BEIJING (AFP) — A small group of monks at a major Tibetan Buddhist monastery in northwest China defied authorities and staged a protest in front of foreign reporters on Wednesday, a witness and state media said.About 15 monks from the Labrang monastery in Gansu province approached the journalists carrying banners and voicing support for exiled Tibetan leader

17th Karmapa: Tibet's next leader?

2008-04-08T10:37:00.001-07:00

In an effort to avoid entering any debate over who is the actual 17th Karmapa (my vote for His Holiness the Seventeenth Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje hardly counts: [karmapa-issue.org, wiki, Ken Holmes site]), an article titled "Tibetan Buddhism's next leader?" was spotted online this morning.In mid-May, a serious young man of 22 who is revered as the 17th Karmapa - now the

"Ups and downs are not good" - A day in the life of the Dalai Lama

2008-04-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

From an article called "Hard times for the Dalai Lama" on theweekdaily.com web site:A day in his life.The Dalai Lama spends several months a year traveling the world, meeting with national leaders and addressing huge crowds. But when not globe-trotting, he lives modestly in Dharamsala, India, in the snow-capped foothills of the Himalayas.His operational base is the airy, three-story Namgyal

Panchen Lama to turn 19 this month?

2008-04-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

An article entitled "A timely question (Australian Prime Minister Kevin) Rudd should raise" presents a good overview of several deep issues relating to the occupation of Tibet by China, and how this might impact the future. In part, the article stated ...He was called the world's youngest political prisoner when, as a six-year-old, he was taken into Chinese custody in 1995. He has not been seen

China asks the Dalai Lama for help

2008-03-31T13:29:00.001-07:00

Found in a report today on The Hindu website titled "China asks Dalai Lama to use his influence' to stop Tibet violence"...Facing mounting international flak for the crackdown on Lhasa, China on Monday gave first signs of softening its stand by asking the Dalai Lama to use his "influence" to stop violence in Tibet and said the "channels" for dialogue with him are "always open.""The channels for

Dalai Lama thanks John McCain for support of Tibetans

2008-03-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

Spotted this morning on the Washington Post blog website:The Dalai Lama sent a letter today to Sen. John McCain, thanking him for "concern you have shown regarding the sad turn of events in Tibet and for your efforts to persuade the Chinese authorities to exercise restraint in dealing with the demonstrations."McCain, the presumptive Republican (Presidential) nominee, issued a statement Tuesday in

Dalai Lama begins discourse on Jataka tales

2008-02-22T18:25:00.000-08:00

Buddhists have gathered in large numbers in Himachal Pradesh [wiki] to listen to the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama speak on Lord Buddha’s timeless 34 Jataka tales [wiki]. “His Holiness spoke on the importance of training our minds and developing a positive mental attitude such as compassion,” a spokesman of the Dalai Lama’s office here said Friday.The annual spring teachings of the

"We appeal to you: help us." - The Dalai Lama

2007-12-14T07:17:00.000-08:00

"The Dalai is not a pure religious figure but a political exile under the cover of religion who has long been engaged in activities aimed at splitting the motherland and national unity," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang told reporters in Beijing.Not unlike the bully on the playground who complains when the kid who he stole lunch money from asks for it back, the Chinese Government

Calling all Tibetans to vote for the next Dalai Lama

2007-12-02T21:00:00.000-08:00

Not quite yet, but the Dalai Lama seems to be seriously considering breaking with tradition regarding his successor. The first step would be to hold a referendum among all traditional Tibetan Buddhists, including those living in China-occupied Tibet, to decide whether the institution of the Dalai Lama should continue or not."When my physical condition becomes weak, and there are serious

Dalai Lama may name successor before death

2007-11-20T08:25:00.000-08:00

An AP article found this morning on the International Herald Tribune and other web sites:Report: Dalai Lama may appoint successor before he dies, a break from centuries of traditionThe Dalai Lama has said he may appoint a successor or call democratic elections before his death instead of relying on reincarnation, a Japanese newspaper reported Tuesday, following recent orders that China must

Dalai Lama visits Japanese Shrine, lectures on religious harmony

2007-11-19T20:07:00.000-08:00

Noticed today on the Phayul.com web siteHis Holiness the Dalai Lama visited Japan’s holiest Shinto Shrine in Ise City, Mie Prefecture this morning as part of his commitment to promote religious harmony by paying respect to religious holy places around the world.The Tibetan spiritual leader bowed at the main shrine and offered prayer.His Holiness on Saturday said “promotion of religious harmony”

Members of Indian Cabinet absent from event for Dalai Lama

2007-11-03T19:17:00.000-07:00

Noticed on the VOICE OF AMERICA web site:The central government ordered all Cabinet ministers to stay away from a Saturday event congratulating the Tibetan spiritual leader for receiving the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal.A letter to ministers called the event "not in conformity with the foreign policy of the government." That was a polite reference to avoiding a diplomatic upset with China, which

Dalai Lama in Bloomington, Indiana

2007-10-24T07:33:00.000-07:00

Noticed on the isdnews.com and indystar.com web sites this morning:For Tibetan Buddhists, rain is a great blessing. So when the Dalai Lama returned to Indiana on Tuesday under a steady downpour, it was deemed an auspicious start to his six-day visit.The Dalai Lama begins his six-day Bloomington visit Tuesday with an interfaith service held at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Catholic Center, located at 1413

Emorywheel: An Interview with His Holiness the Dalai Lama

2007-10-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

From the Emory Wheel web site:The Dalai Lama, Emory's newest professor, sat down for an interview on Oct. 21 with members of the media, including editors from The Emory Wheel. During the 20-minute discussion, the Tibetan spiritual leader talked about the political nature of his position, the importance of nonviolence and the happiest moment in his life. Click here to watch the video of the

Dalai Lama, "So now I am your professor?"; arrives at Emory University

2007-10-20T09:04:00.000-07:00

The Dalai Lama has always taught enlightenment — but what few people know is he says that path includes lessons in modern science.And Emory will now assist Tibetans to realize His Holiness’s vision.“It has been His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s lifelong vision to find a way to converge spirituality and science,” said Geshe Lobsan Tenzin Negi, chair of the Emory-Tibet partnership.In early February

China reacts (badly) to Dalai Lama US Congressional Medal

2007-10-18T13:25:00.000-07:00

Spotted today on the Voice of America web site, this article discusses the Chinese reaction to the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal bestowed upon the Dalai Lama yesterday.China says the United States has "gravely undermined" relations between the two countries by awarding Tibet's spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, with its highest civilian medal.Foreign ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao told reporters

(video) HH the 14th Dalai Lama's speech following receipt of U.S. Congressional Gold Medal

2007-10-17T19:11:00.001-07:00

YouTube video of the CNN broadcast of the speech by HH The Dalai Lama, Part I.Click here to view Part II on YouTube.".. that death is our final destination. We have to go that way. Now, as a Buddhist, as a believer, what we can do is only pray, prayer, for those people's soul who are no longer with us.""The consistency of the American support for Tibet has not gone unnoticed in China. This has

Hackers exploiting Myanmar crisis?

2007-10-05T19:51:00.001-07:00

Please note that, while this appears to describe a real trojan horse, we have not been able to substantiate this through other virus security sites such as Symantec or McAfee. Additionally, other reports we have found on the internet regarding this virus (google) seem to be doing little more than repeating the information in this story and/or in the Sophos press release.Found on the

Constructing a Mandala

2007-10-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

Found on the IthacaJournal.com web site, we thought it a wonderful presentation. Be sure to visit the IthacaJournal.com site. The monks of the Namgyal Monastery [wiki], of Dharamsala, India, and its branch in Ithaca are constructing two types of mandalas [wiki] at the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art at Cornell University, a Kalachakra Sand Mandala seen in the slide show above and a Thread-cross

2007-10-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Free Burma: October 4, 2007International bloggers are acting to support the peaceful revolution in Burma. We want to be a sign of freedom and to show our sympathy for the people who, without weapons, are fighting this cruel regime. We join with thousands of other bloggers around the world in this action and are closing down this blog on

Myanmar and engaged buddhism

2007-10-01T13:55:00.000-07:00

Found recently on The Nation web site ... If you think that Buddhist monks in Myanmar currently waging protests against the military powers are passive and peace loving, think again. After a monthlong protest, hundreds have been arrested while dozens of others have died or sustained serious injuries since the Burmese junta began its crackdown"Engaged Buddhism"--a term coined by Vietnamese monk

President Bush to meet Dalai Lama

2007-09-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

Spotted on theage.com.au web site this morning:GEORGE Bush is to become the first American president to meet the Dalai Lama in public.Mr Bush will meet (The Dalai Lama) next month in a gesture that risks infuriating the Chinese Government. They will meet at a ceremony in front of the symbol of American democracy, the Capitol Building, where the Tibetan leader will be presented with the

Dalai Lama Statement on Burma (Myanmar)

2007-09-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

A message posted on the website of His Holiness The XIVth Dalai Lama:I extend my support and solidarity with the recent peaceful movement for democracy in Burma. I fully support their call for freedom and democracy and take this opportunity to appeal to freedom-loving people all over the world to support such non-violent movements. Moreover, I wish to convey my sincere appreciation and

China bans Buddhist 'reincarnation' without government permission

2007-08-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

Spotted on the kalingatimes.com web site. As ironic (absurd?) as this may be, it does not appear to be a hoax, as mention appears on other prominent sites:China bans Buddhist 'reincarnation' without government permissionBy Mayank Chhaya Notwithstanding the inherent absurdity of the action, China has banned Buddhist monks from "reincarnating" without government permission.As of Sep 1, China's

My main purpose is the promotion of Human Values - Dalai Lama

2007-07-24T21:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday His Holiness spoke to German broadcaster Deutsche Welle [wiki].DW: Your Holiness, please tell us about the human rights situation in Tibet.Dalai Lama: It's still very serious. About a month ago I met a Tibetan who spent eight years in a Chinese prison. His only crime, which took place in a village near Lhasa, was to express his own feelings.China reacted harshly when you spoke about the

"The human rights situation in Tibet is still very serious" - The Dalai Lama

2007-07-23T16:53:00.000-07:00

From the EUX.TV web site:On Monday the Dalai Lama, visiting the German city of Hamburg for a series of lectures and talks with supporters of Tibetan Buddhism in Europe, criticized the actions of Chinese security forces in Tibet. "The human rights situation in Tibet is still very serious," the Dalai Lama said, adding that there had been repeated incidents with Chinese guards at the border."Many

"Forgiveness is not a sign of weakness"-Dalia Lama

2007-07-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

From the Phayul.com web site:Welcoming His Holiness the Dalai Lama here this evening as the keynote speaker at the International Conference on children's rights and "A Promise for the Future", Mr Richard Moore, Director of Children in Crossfire told the conference delegates and guests that his organization could not find a better person in the world than His Holiness to address the conference

Buddhists offer prayers for Dalai Lama's long life

2007-07-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

From the Daily India web site:Buddhist monks and followers offered prayers for the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala to overcome, according to Tibetan astrology, the year of "obstacles" in his 73rd year."It is important that the Dalai Lama has a long life so that he can support the freedom fight for Tibet..."Followers from Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Europe and America attended the congregation, as Nyigma

Happy Birthday to the Dalai Lama

2007-07-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the Dalai LamaJuly 6th is the 72nd Birthday of His Holiness The Dalai Lama. We send our best wishes for much happiness and for a long life.May all beings everywhere,Seen and unseen,Dwelling far off or nearby,Being or waiting to become:May all be filled with lasting joy.Articles appearing on the Phayul.com web site:Dharamsala celebrates exiled Tibetan leader’s 72nd BirthdayThe

Long Life Prayer for the Dalai Lama

2007-07-06T10:41:00.000-07:00

LONG LIFE PRAYER FOR THE DALAI LAMAGANG RI RA WAY KOR WAY SHING KHAM DIRIn this Pure Land surrounded by the snowy mountainsPHEN DANG DEY WA MA LU JUNG WAY NAYYou are the source of all benefit and happiness, without exception.CHEN RAY ZIG WANG TEN ZING GYA TSO YIAll powerful Avalokiteshvara, Tenzin Gyatso,SHAB PED SID THAY BAR DU TEN GYUR CHIGMay you stay immovable until Samsara becomes

Envoys from the Dalai Lama in China

2007-07-01T10:07:00.000-07:00

As reported in Reuters India:Envoys of Tibet's exiled spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, flew to China on Friday in hopes of resuming dialogue, but a member of Tibet's parliament-in-exile was not optimistic about a breakthrough.Lodi Gyari, the Dalai Lama's top envoy in Washington, and Kelsang Gyaltsen arrived in Shanghai from India, accompanied by two senior assistants, according to a source with

The 17th Karmapa turns 22

2007-06-27T09:46:00.000-07:00

From a Phayul.com article: Born on June 26, 1985 to a nomadic family in Bakor, in eastern Tibet, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa (wiki, web) Ogyen Trinley Dorji is revered by Tibetans as the head of Kagyu (Tibetan: བཀའ་བརྒྱུད་) (wiki) Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. He escaped Tibet and reached the northern Indian town of of Dharamsala in 2000.In a traditional Buddhist ceremony, Karmapa was

Tibetan monastery schools to introduce Chinese

2007-06-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

For those who thought ESL was tough, Zee News India posted this story ...Dharamsala, June 25: The Tibetan government-in-exile is introducing Chinese as an optional third language in its monastery schools in India, Bhutan and Nepal and has issued newspaper advertisements for "preferably male" teachers. Acting on the suggestion of its temporal head the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan ministry for

Washington Post: Advocates Sue Yahoo In Chinese Torture Case

2007-04-20T16:35:00.000-07:00

While this may be slightly off topic, it seemed an important enough issue to warrant posting on this site. The Dalai Lama is not involved in this case directly or indirectly. The Washington Post web site ran an article with details of a law suit filed on April 18th against Yahoo! for "abetting the torture of pro-democracy writers by releasing data that allowed China's government to identify them.

INTERVIEW WITH HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA

2007-04-07T19:18:00.000-07:00

An article titled "INTERVIEW WITH HIS HOLINESS THE DALAI LAMA", by Ewa Kedzierska, appeared recently on the Phayul.com web site. A portion of that interview appears below.Ewa Kedzierska: Your Holiness, before the Chinese invasion in 1949 Tibet was an independent country, with more than thousand years of history. We have eye-witnesses saying how much it has suffered under the Chinese occupation.

"Study of religion essential to understand right and wrong"

2007-03-26T18:55:00.000-07:00

On Sunday from India, His Holiness urged people to study and use the knowledge of religion to understand what is right and wrong.“To understand what is the right path, one needs to base knowledge upon extensive study. At the same time, one should not just be satisfied by attaining bookish knowledge, but understand and implement it in the course of life.”Praising India for its proverbial "Unity

Detained Tibetan Youth Congress members released from Tihar Jail

2007-03-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Spotted on Phayul.com:The members of Tibetan Youth Congress who were detained in Delhi's Tihar Jail since March 10 were released last night after 14 days of detention, which is considered to be the longest stay in prison in the last 4 to 5 years. They were detained for protesting in and around the premises of the Chinese embassy on the 48th Tibetan National Uprising Day on which day back in 1959,

China premier says Dalai Lama threatens unity

2007-03-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

An article spotted today on the CenterDaily.com web site by Tim Johnson of the McClatchy Newspapers stated:China's Premier Wen Jiabao on Friday repeated claims that the Dalai Lama, the exiled spiritual leader of Tibet, threatens the unity of the nation and may be trying to separate his Himalayan homeland from China.Surveying the situation in crucial outlying regions within China's sphere, Wen

Tibetans offer Tenshug to His Holiness the Dalai Lama

2007-03-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

On behalf of all the Tibetans in and outside Tibet and the traditional religious sects, the special organising committee and the retired civil servants of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) made a grand Tenshug (Long-life prayer offerings) to His Holiness the Dalai Lama this morning at the Tsuglakhang.During the ceremony His Holiness said that he hopes to live for several more decades,

Dalai Lama appearances moved to Maui Stadium

2007-03-14T08:42:00.000-07:00

There's so much interest in the appearance on Maui next month of the Dalai Lama that the event has been moved from the Maui Arts and Cultural Center to War Memorial Stadium in Kahului, Maui.2- 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 24Free Public Talk: "The Human Approach to World Peace"General admission: open seating, stadium seats. Gates open at 10 a.m.2-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 25Ticketed Event: "Eight

Video web cast of teaching available (Real Video format)

2007-03-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

The 3rd Dalai Lama Gyalwang Sonam Gyatso’s The Refined Gold – The Stages of the Path to Enlightenment (lamrim sershoonma) along with Shantideva’s A Guide to the Boddhisattva’s Way of Life (chodjug)Date: 4 - 14 March 2007Venue: Main Temple, Mcleod Ganj, Dharamsala, IndiaDate : 13th-March-2007 (Day 9)Video Web cast in English, Chinese, TibetanAudio MP3 in English, Chinese, Tibetan(In) The Stages of

China angrily rejects criticism by the Dalai Lama

2007-03-13T10:10:00.000-07:00

Exhibiting behavior one might expect from a repressor, an agent of the Chinese government spoke out harshly in response to comments made by His Holiness this past weekend."The Dalai Lama been on exile abroad, engaging in activities undermining the unity of the motherland." As if suppression of the Tibetan people by China was not an activity undermining the unity of that land.The position of the

The Panchen Lama and Tibet's Future

2007-03-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Who is the Panchen Lama? where is he? what is his role in the future of Tibet? What is the role of the media in his story? Read on to find out this and much more...Thus begins a terrific, and somewhat detailed, article by Glenn Freeman appearing on the Phayul.com web site about the kidnapping of the 11th Panchen Lama on May 17th 1995 at age 6, by the Chinese government. From that article: What