In a surprising announcement, the Dalai Lama recently shared that he plans to reincarnate as a Western woman in his next life to help spread Buddhism to a wider audience.
Lhamo Thondup, born on July 6, 1935, and known as the 14th Dalai Lama, explained that he wishes to embrace a new approach in his future reincarnation. Tired of being born as a man in Tibet for many lifetimes, he expressed interest in becoming a “modern, attractive Western woman” to better connect with today’s global followers.
During an interview, the Dalai Lama described his future form as a woman who would use her influence on social media to share Buddhist teachings in a fresh and relatable way. He emphasized that it is time for Buddhism to evolve and reach new generations around the world.
Monks traditionally tasked with finding the Dalai Lama’s reincarnation acknowledged that this new plan might change their usual process. Instead of searching in small Himalayan villages, they anticipate traveling internationally, possibly to places like Los Angeles, Ibiza, or popular wellness retreats.
To assist in identifying his next form, the Dalai Lama offered additional characteristics for the monks to look for, including distinct physical features and preferences that would make his identity clear in the future.
While these statements sparked discussion among spiritual communities, the Buddhist leadership has yet to release an official response about how this unconventional plan would fit into established practices.
As of now, it remains to be seen how these new ideas will shape the search for his next reincarnation and how followers will respond to this bold and modern vision.