The future of the Dalai Lama’s spiritual lineage has become a flashpoint. Beijing insists it holds the final authority over this sacred process. This claim directly challenges traditional Tibetan Buddhist practices. The Buddhist Association of China made its position very clear.
The Association released a strong statement on July 4, 2025. Their words countered a recent declaration from the 14th Dalai Lama himself. His document outlined his own succession. But the Association called it a distortion of facts. They stated it even went against Buddhist teachings.
According to the Association, an old tradition has been in place since the 5th Dalai Lama. This tradition says that appointing a new Dalai Lama needs central government approval. They see the government as the true source of religious authority. It gives the position its legitimacy.
The Association’s statement firmly stressed that reincarnation is not a private matter. They pointed out the clear, traditional steps for finding a Dalai Lama’s successor. One key step involves drawing lots from a special golden urn. The chosen candidate then needs central government approval. Only then are they accepted by both the public and religious groups. China’s National Religious Affairs Administration also keeps a tight grip. They have strict rules for the reincarnation of all Tibetan lamas. This oversight includes the Dalai Lama’s unique case.
