lama, in Tibetan Buddhism, a spiritual leader. Originally used to translate “guru” (Sanskrit: “venerable one”) and thus applicable only to heads of monasteries or great teachers, the term is now extended out of courtesy to any respected monk or priest. The common Western usage of “lamaism” and “lamasery” are, in fact, incorrect terms of reference for Tibetan Buddhism and a Tibetan monastery.
Some lamas are considered reincarnations of their predecessors. These are termed sprul-sku lamas, as distinguished from “developed” lamas, who have won respect because of the high level of spiritual development they have achieved in the present lifetime. The highest lineage of reincarnate lamas is that of Dalai Lama, who was, until 1959 when he went into exile, the temporal ruler of Tibet. The title is given to the head of the dominant order of Tibetan Buddhists, the Dge-lugs-pa (Yellow Hat sect). He is considered the physical manifestation of the compassionate bodhisattva (“buddha-to-be”) Avalokiteshvara. The second highest line of succession is that of the Panchen Lama, head abbot of the Tashilhunpo monastery, believed to be the manifestation of the buddha Amitabha. Other, lesser sprul-sku lamas, of which there are several thousand, are revered as reincarnations of great saints or teachers, ranked as great, middle, or lesser incarnations. The idea probably originated from the tradition of the 84 mahasiddhas, or master yogins (spiritual adepts, or ascetics), many of whom were identified as manifestations of earlier sages, coupled with the accepted Buddhist belief in rebirth.
The process of discovering the rebirth of a reincarnated lama can be elaborate and exacting, particularly in the selection of a Dalai Lama, which has many political implications. The rebirth may take place at any time, from days to years, following the death of the previous lama. The state oracle at Nechung is consulted for the whereabouts of the newly born Dalai Lama. Remarks made by the Dalai Lama before his death are frequently accepted as indications of a favoured place for rebirth, as are any unusual signs that are observed during his death or during a birth thereafter. Often two or more candidates are subjected to a critical physical and mental examination, which includes recognition of personal belongings handled by the previous lama. In case of doubt, lots may be drawn. After selection, the young child is given extensive monastic training from an early age. During the years of search for and education of a newly incarnated lama, a regent is appointed to rule in his stead.