December 23, 2010
The Dalai Lama is a religious figure that represents the traditions and values of the Buddhist faith. The title of “Dalai Lama” is given to the leader of the Tibetan people, who strongly influences the religious and political views of Tibet to Lhasa. The name originates from a combination of the Mongolic and Tibetan language. The word “Dalai” in Mongolian translates to “big” or “ocean,” and in Tibetan means “guru” or “master.” These monks belong to the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. In 1578, the Prince of Shunyi, Altan Khan was permitted by the Ming Dynasty to create the title. In 1940, Tenzin Gyatso was selected as the 14th Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama has played an essential role throughout history in many instances, such as symbolizing the unification of Tibet, acting as a spiritual and religious figure towards the Geluk tradition and uniting various religious groups.
Thousands of people travel long distances each year to listen to the Dalai Lama, who visits many parts of the world, sharing words of wisdom and spirituality. The Dalai Lama’s speech in Salugara, India took place inside a walled monastery; the streets outside filled with numerous cars and people. Makeshift bamboo pens were laid out to help keep the thousands of people in order.
