logo
'Ocean, Big Sea': What Does The Word 'Dalai' In Dalai Lama Mean?

'Ocean, Big Sea': What Does The Word 'Dalai' In Dalai Lama Mean?

News18a day ago
Last Updated:
The title "Dalai Lama" is a combination of the Sino-Mongolian word dalai meaning "big sea" and the Tibetan word bla-ma meaning "guru, teacher"
The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, will turn 90 this week. While he has ended speculation on whether he will have a successor or not after his death by reaffirming his succession plan, this is set to escalate tensions with China that has rejected it.
China has said any future heir must receive its seal of approval, adding a new chapter to Tibetan Buddhism's decades-long struggle with the Chinese ruling Communist Party.
WHAT DOES THE DALAI LAMA MEAN?
While the Dalai Lama is the face of Buddhism to many people across the world, he is actually the head of just one tradition within Tibetan Buddhism known as the Gelug school.
According to the website of the Namgyal Monastery, the Dalai Lama is a high lama in the Gelug or 'Yellow Hat" school of Tibetan Buddhism, founded by Tsongkhapa (1357-1419). The title 'Dalai Lama" is a combination of the Sino-Mongolian word dalai meaning 'big sea" and the Tibetan word bla-ma meaning 'guru, teacher", suggesting breadth and depth of wisdom.
Britannica states that it became the title for the leader of the Gelukpa order in the beginning, with the third Dalai Lama who reached an agreement for mutual respect and support with Mongol chief Altan Khan, who bestowed on him that title.
Tibetans believe the Dalai Lama to be the manifestation of Avalokiteśvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, and the 'one who hears the cries of the world". Avalokiteśvara is prayed to across Asia, and is known as Chenrezig in Tibet, Guanyin in China, and Kannon or Kanzeon in Japan. The line of Dalai Lamas began as a lineage of spiritual teachers, with the fifth Dalai Lama assuming political authority over Tibet.
The Gaden Phodrang Trust, a non-profit organisation, was founded by the Office of the Dalai Lama in 2015. The statement made by the 14th Dalai Lama, who is also called Lhama Thondup, on May 21, was released by his office four days ahead of his birthday on July 6. A 5.57-minute video of his speech in Tibetan was also released.
'I am affirming that the institution of the Dalai Lama will continue and I hereby reiterate that the Gaden Phodrang Trust has the sole authority to recognise the future reincarnation. No one else has any such authority to interfere in this matter," the statement said.
Earlier, the spiritual head of Tibetan Buddhism had maintained that Tibet's most sacred tradition could be wound up, or his successor could be a woman or someone born outside China.
China, however, has rejected the Nobel Peace laureate's succession plan. Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said the reincarnation of the Dalai Lama and Panchen Lama, the second-high priest of Tibetan Buddhism, has to go through the centuries-old tradition of the 'Golden Urn' law procedure started by the 18th century Qing dynasty.
'The Dalai Lama's reincarnation must follow the principles of domestic recognition, the 'Golden Urn' process, and approval by the central government, in line with religious traditions and laws," she told a media briefing in Beijing while responding to the Dalai Lama's announcement.
The week-long celebrations to mark the Dalai Lama's 90th birthday commenced at Tsuglagkhang, the main temple at McLeodganj near Dharamshala, on June 30. The occasion is significant, as the Dalai Lama had said in 2011 that at the age of 90, he will decide whether the institution will continue or not.
(With PTI inputs)
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

How the Dalai Lama practices mindfulness daily—and what you can learn from him
How the Dalai Lama practices mindfulness daily—and what you can learn from him

Time of India

timean hour ago

  • Time of India

How the Dalai Lama practices mindfulness daily—and what you can learn from him

Image credits: Getty Images The Dalai Lama is the head of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. The term Dalai Lama is a part of the full title "Holiness Knowing Everything Vajradhara Dalai Lama" and is a title that is accepted by each successive leader. Currently, the XIVth Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso is the spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetan people. Born in a small village Taktser in northeastern Tibet to a peasant family, he was recognised as the reincarnation of his predecessor of the 13th Dalai Lama at the young age of two. The Dalai Lama is a figure known to harness the power of mindfulness and often teaches people about how they can integrate the quality into their day-to-day lives. He will celebrate his 90th birthday on July 6 and prior to that he took to social media to send a message to his followers, writing: "On the occasion of my 90th birthday, I understand that well-wishers and friends in many places, including Tibetan communities, are gathering for celebrations. I develop determination and courage in my daily life through the teachings of the Buddha and Indian masters such as Shantideva, whose following aspiration I strive to uphold. As long as space endures, As long as sentient being remain, Until then, may I too remain To dispel the miseries of the world," he wrote. undefined How does the Dalai Lama practice mindfulness daily? Image credits: X Mindfulness allows a person to develop awareness of their self, thoughts, emotions and actions creating clarity and aiding self-regulation in an often chaotic world. According to the Dalai Lama, mindfulness is not merely a meditative practice but a way of fostering present-moment awareness along with ethical responsibility. When at home, his holiness wakes up at 3 am and begins the day with prayers, meditations and prostrations until 5 am. He also takes a short walk around the premises. From 9 am he studies various Buddhist texts and commentaries written by Buddhist masters. Throughout the day he includes many meditation sessions for at least two hours. He includes structural frameworks of Buddhism to obtain mindfulness through the practices of Shamatha and Vipassana. Shamatha or "calm abiding" trains the mind through focused attention and tranquillity by focusing on breath or a visual image. Vipasaana meaning "insight meditation" complements the earlier practice by profound introspection and wisdom. He also believes that the four foundations of mindfulness- contemplation of body, feeling, mind and dhammas, deepen a practitioner's ability to gain mastery over his or her own mind. He teaches to practice mindfulness not only through meditation but also by being aware of every moment and the actions we take in them-how you eat, how you talk, how you listen. He also includes the tantric practice of deity yoga which involves transforming death and rebirth into the three bodies of a Buddha. For the Dalai Lama, mindfulness and compassion align with each other and a great way to inculcate both is by the practice of tong len, giving and taking. On one side you visualize your own normal self that is impervious to others' well-being and on the other side, you visualise a group of people who are suffering. Thirdly, you view yourself as a neutral observer. This helps you understand the limitations of self-centredness and the importance of concerning one with the welfare of other beings. Thus, one can learn to include meditation, reading of dharma texts, momentary mindfulness and compassion in their regular schedule from the Dalai Lama.

Horoscope Today, July 05, 2025: Daily Predictions Based on Your Chinese Zodiac Sign
Horoscope Today, July 05, 2025: Daily Predictions Based on Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

Time of India

time18 hours ago

  • Time of India

Horoscope Today, July 05, 2025: Daily Predictions Based on Your Chinese Zodiac Sign

Welcome to your daily Chinese horoscope, where we explore the mystical insights of the Chinese zodiac. Each day brings new opportunities and challenges, shaped by the powerful dynamics of the Chinese zodiac signs and the ongoing Chinese zodiac year. Discover what the stars have in store for you based on your specific zodiac sign in this ancient astrology tradition. Horoscope Today for Rat Zodiac (1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020) Don't minimize your growth because it's quiet. You are changing, even if it's not loud or visible yet. At work, your steady effort is building something strong. In love, small moments show deep care. Financially, slow progress is still progress. Health improves with gentle routines. Today, honour your pace. You're growing in silence, and that's powerful. Trust the quiet steps—they are leading you exactly where you need to go. Horoscope Today for Ox Zodiac (1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021) Let today be enough. You don't have to do more to prove your worth. At work, complete what you can without pushing too hard. In relationships, your presence matters more than perfection. Money matters feel easier when you release pressure. Health improves with rest and acceptance. Today, take things as they are. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is your tinnitus getting worse? Do this immediately (Watch) Hearing Magazine Undo You are doing just fine, exactly as you are. Horoscope Today for Tiger Zodiac (1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022) You don't need a perfect plan to begin. Waiting too long for the right time can hold you back. At work, start small but start today. In love, share your heart even if words feel unsure. Money grows when you act with courage. Health improves with consistent effort. Trust yourself to move forward even without all the answers. The first step creates the path, not the other way around. Horoscope Today for Rabbit Zodiac (1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023) What you say no to defines your future. Today is about protecting your time and energy. At work, don't take on extra if it drains you. In love, set clear boundaries with kindness. Money decisions should reflect your real priorities. Health improves when you rest instead of forcing. Saying no is not weakness, it is wisdom. Every choice you avoid helps shape the life you truly want. Horoscope Today for Dragon Zodiac (1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024) A pause in the rush brings power back to you. Today, slow down and reconnect with your inner strength. At work, take a moment before reacting. In love, listen more than you speak. Financial matters feel easier when you're calm. Health improves with mindful rest. You don't need to keep pushing. Rest is not weakness—it is wisdom. Let this quiet space refill your energy and direction. Horoscope Today for Snake Zodiac (1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013) Emotional wisdom leads today—let it speak. Trust your inner feelings more than outer noise. At work, follow what feels balanced, not just what looks right. In relationships, speak from your heart, not habit. Money flows better with emotional clarity. Health improves when you stay honest with yourself. You have deep understanding inside you. Today, let that guide your choices. Quiet knowing will lead you to the right place. Horoscope Today for Horse Zodiac (1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014) The clarity you gain today may surprise you. A small conversation or quiet thought can bring big insight. At work, something confusing may suddenly make sense. In love, you see someone's truth more clearly. Financially, a new idea might show the smarter path. Health improves with reflection. Don't chase answers—let them come to you. Stay open, stay present. Your mind is ready to see what it missed before. Horoscope Today for Goat Zodiac (1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015) Protect your peace like it's a resource. Your calm is too valuable to waste on noise. At work, avoid drama and focus on your own lane. In love, say no to stress that is not yours. Financially, avoid pressure-based choices. Health improves when your thoughts are peaceful. Today, treat your peace like gold. Keep it safe, even if it means saying less or stepping back. You deserve quiet strength. Horoscope Today for Monkey Zodiac (1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016) Show up in the world the way you wish others would. Your kindness, honesty, and joy can set the tone today. At work, lead with patience and understanding. In love, be the gentle presence you hope to receive. Financially, act with integrity. Health improves when you treat yourself with care. What you give out returns in unexpected ways. Horoscope Today for Rooster Zodiac (1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017) Begin again, with intention. Today gives you a clean slate if you're ready to accept it. At work, leave past mistakes behind and focus on what you can build now. In love, offer a fresh start through honest effort. Financially, make one mindful choice. Health improves when you commit to small, good habits. Let today be your soft reset. Move forward with purpose, not pressure, and you'll feel lighter. Horoscope Today for Dog Zodiac (1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018) The truth will feel lighter than avoidance. Stop carrying what you're afraid to say. At work, speak clearly about your limits or needs. In love, honest words will bring closeness. Financially, check facts and act with clarity. Health improves when you're emotionally honest. Today, truth brings freedom. It may feel hard at first, but once spoken, you'll breathe easier. Say what matters—gently, but with courage. Horoscope Today for Pig Zodiac (1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019) Find beauty in today's simplicity. You don't need grand plans to feel fulfilled. At work, focus on small wins. In love, enjoy a quiet moment instead of chasing something big. Financial peace comes from mindful spending. Health improves with slow meals, deep breaths, and calm thoughts. Today's strength lies in gentle living. The more you notice the little joys, the more your heart feels whole and grounded. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .

From Gedun Drupa to Tenzin Gyatso: The 14th Dalai Lama and his 13 predecessors
From Gedun Drupa to Tenzin Gyatso: The 14th Dalai Lama and his 13 predecessors

Time of India

time18 hours ago

  • Time of India

From Gedun Drupa to Tenzin Gyatso: The 14th Dalai Lama and his 13 predecessors

As the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso , approaches his 90th birthday on July 6, 2025, he holds the distinction of being the longest-living Dalai Lama in Tibetan history. According to tradition, the process of identifying his reincarnation will be overseen by the Gaden Phodrang Trust. Historically, each of the preceding 13 Dalai Lamas was born either in the same year their predecessor passed away or the year after. These spiritual leaders were typically recognized at an early age—usually between two and three years old—as the reincarnated embodiments of their predecessors. Below is a detailed overview of the lives and discoveries of the first 13 Dalai Lamas, as recounted through Tibetan Buddhist customs. While some enjoyed long lives filled with spiritual achievement, others passed away in their youth. Gedun Drupa: The First Dalai Lama (1391–1474) Gedun Drupa, originally named Pema Dorjee, entered the world in 1391 in Gyurmey Rupa, a small area near Sakya in Tibet's Tsang region. His parents, Gonpo Dorjee and Jomo Namkha Kyi, were part of a nomadic tribe. He began his early education in Tibetan script under the tutelage of Gya-Ton Tsenda Pa-La. At 14, he was ordained as a novice monk by Khenchen Drupa Sherab, the abbot of Narthang Monastery, who gave him the religious name Gedun Drupa. He received full monastic ordination in 1411. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Scientists: Tinnitus? When tinnitus won't go away, do this (Watch) Hearing Magazine Undo In 1416, deeply inspired by the revered Tsongkhapa—the founder of the Gelugpa school—Gedun Drupa became his devoted disciple. Tsongkhapa acknowledged his dedication by symbolically gifting him a new monk's robe, foreshadowing Gedun Drupa's future role in spreading Buddhism across Tibet. Gedun Drupa went on to establish the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery in Shigatse in 1447, which would become a major center of learning for the Gelugpa sect. A scholar of remarkable intellect and discipline, Gedun Drupa authored over eight extensive texts that delved into the teachings and philosophy of the Buddha. He died peacefully in 1474 at the age of 84, while meditating at Tashi Lhunpo. Gedun Gyatso: The Second Dalai Lama (1475–1542) Born in 1475 in Tanag Sekme near Shigatse, Gedun Gyatso was the child of Kunga Gyaltso and Machik Kunga Pemo, a farming family. His father, a practitioner from the Nyingmapa tradition, reportedly had dreams and visions pointing to his son's spiritual destiny. As a toddler, the boy claimed his name was Pema Dorjee and expressed a desire to reside in Tashi Lhunpo Monastery—the same name and wish as the First Dalai Lama. Recognized as Gedun Drupa's reincarnation at age 11, he was enthroned at Tashi Lhunpo and given his monastic name by Panchen Lungrig Gyatso. He undertook advanced studies at both Tashi Lhunpo and Drepung Monasteries. In 1517, he assumed the abbacy of Drepung and in 1525, that of Sera Monastery . He also revived the Monlam Chenmo, or Great Prayer Festival. Gedun Gyatso passed away in 1542 at the age of 67. Sonam Gyatso: The Third Dalai Lama (1543–1588) Sonam Gyatso was born in 1543 in Tolung, near Lhasa, into a prosperous family. After the tragic loss of earlier children, his parents tried to protect him by feeding him goat's milk, and gave him the name Ranu Sicho Pelzang—"prosperous one saved by goat's milk." Recognized at three years old as the reincarnation of the Second Dalai Lama, he was taken to Drepung Monastery, where he renounced worldly life and received his new name. He later accepted full ordination and became the abbot of both Drepung and Sera Monasteries. In 1574, he founded Phende Lekshe Ling, now known as Namgyal Monastery—the personal monastery of the Dalai Lamas. He was the first to receive the title "Dalai Lama" (meaning Ocean of Wisdom ) from the Mongol King Altan Khan, whom he, in turn, named 'Brahma, King of Religion.' Sonam Gyatso expanded Tibetan Buddhism into Mongolia and established Kumbum and Lithang Monasteries. He passed away while teaching in Mongolia in 1588. Yonten Gyatso: The Fourth Dalai Lama (1589–1617) Yonten Gyatso was born in Mongolia in 1589, the grandson of Altan Khan. His birth was accompanied by prophetic signs and approval from the Gaden Monastery's abbot. However, his family initially refused to send him to Tibet. He studied under Tibetan monks in Mongolia before finally arriving in Tibet at age 12 in 1601. At 26, he received full ordination from the Fourth Panchen Lama and became abbot of Drepung and later Sera Monastery. His life was short, and he died in 1617 at the age of 27. Lobsang Gyatso: The Fifth Dalai Lama (1617–1682) Lobsang Gyatso was born in Lhoka in 1617. As a child, he recognized belongings of the previous Dalai Lama and was secretly acknowledged by Sonam Choephel due to political instability. Eventually, he was ordained and named Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. In 1642, backed by Gushir Khan of the Qoshot Mongols , he was installed as both Tibet's religious and temporal leader. He initiated the construction of the iconic Potala Palace in 1645. He visited the Chinese Emperor Sunzhi in Peking in 1649, where they exchanged formal honors. The Fifth Dalai Lama's tenure brought political unity and spiritual reform. He died in 1682 before the Potala Palace was completed and advised that his death be kept secret until construction was finished. Tsangyang Gyatso: The Sixth Dalai Lama (1683–1706) Born in 1683 in Tawang (now Arunachal Pradesh), Tsangyang Gyatso was secretly identified due to the Fifth Dalai Lama's undisclosed death. The Desi Sangye Gyatso managed this deception for 15 years while construction of the Potala Palace continued. Tsangyang Gyatso took novice vows in 1697 but renounced monastic life soon after. Known for his poetic brilliance and unorthodox lifestyle, he lived freely, composing lyrical verses and frequenting taverns. In 1706, he was summoned to China but died en route under mysterious circumstances. Kelsang Gyatso: The Seventh Dalai Lama (1708–1757) Kelsang Gyatso was born in Lithang in 1708. The child displayed spiritual traits from a young age and was ordained at Kumbum Monastery. He was enthroned in Lhasa in 1720 and fully ordained in 1726. An accomplished scholar in both sutra and tantra, he reorganized the Tibetan administration by forming the Kashag (council of ministers) in 1751, eliminating the role of Desi. He built the Norling Kalsang Phodrang and founded the Tse-School. He passed away in 1757. Jamphel Gyatso: The Eighth Dalai Lama (1758–1804) Born in 1758 in Lhari Gang, Jamphel Gyatso was recognized for various auspicious signs. He was enthroned in Lhasa at the Potala Palace and received novice ordination at age seven, followed by full ordination in 1777. He contributed to Tibetan architecture by constructing the Norbulingka summer palace. He passed away in 1804 at the age of 47. Lungtok Gyatso: The Ninth Dalai Lama (1805–1815) Lungtok Gyatso was born in 1805 in Kham and was enthroned in Lhasa in 1810. Despite his early promise, he tragically died in 1815 at only nine years of age. Tsultrim Gyatso: The Tenth Dalai Lama (1816–1837) Born in Lithang in 1816, Tsultrim Gyatso was recognized and enthroned in 1822. He was educated at Drepung Monastery and fully ordained in 1835. He restored the Potala Palace but suffered from chronic illness and died in 1837. Khedrup Gyatso: The Eleventh Dalai Lama (1838–1856) Khedrup Gyatso was born in 1838 in Minyak. Recognized and ordained by the Panchen Lama, he assumed leadership as a teenager. Unfortunately, he died unexpectedly in 1856 in the Potala Palace. Trinley Gyatso: The Twelfth Dalai Lama (1856–1875) Born near Lhasa in 1856, Trinley Gyatso was recognized and brought to the Potala Palace in 1858. He assumed full duties by 1873 but died just two years later, at the age of 20. Thupten Gyatso: The Thirteenth Dalai Lama (1876–1933) Thupten Gyatso was born in 1876 in Dagpo. He was recognized in 1877 and fully ordained in 1895. A forward-thinking leader, he strengthened Tibet's sovereignty amidst threats from British and Chinese forces. He introduced paper currency, postal services, schools, and medical institutes. During his exile in India, he was exposed to modern ideas and later restructured Tibet's military and civil institutions. He died in 1933 before fulfilling his dream of fully modernizing Tibet. From humble nomads to royal bloodlines, each Dalai Lama carried the torch of compassion, knowledge, and leadership. Their lives remain testaments to a legacy that intertwines spiritual wisdom with temporal governance—a tradition poised to continue with the next reincarnation.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store