His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso the XIV Dalai Lama, Howard C. Cutler

His Holiness Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, is recognized as the highest spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. Born Lhamo Thondup in 1935 in Amdo, Tibet, he was identified as the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. He served as Tibet's spiritual and temporal leader before fleeing to India in 1959 following the Chinese annexation of Tibet. From Dharamsala, India, he has led the Tibetan government in exile and tirelessly advocates for the welfare of Tibetans and the preservation of their culture and religion through peaceful dialogue.

Central to the Dalai Lama's institution is the belief that he is an emanation of Avalokiteśvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. He is known by various honorific titles, including Gyalwa Rinpoche and Kundun. Throughout his life, he has traveled extensively, sharing Buddhist teachings and engaging in interfaith dialogue, addressing topics ranging from science and philosophy to environmentalism and human rights. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle for the liberation of Tibet.

The 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, is the current spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, a lineage believed to be a continuous emanation of Avalokiteśvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. His spiritual name, Jetsun Jamphel Ngawang Lobsang Yeshe Tenzin Gyatso, is often shortened to Tenzin Gyatso. Tibetans also refer to him by titles such as Gyalwa Rinpoche and Kundun. He leads the Gelug school, the newest of Tibetan Buddhism's traditions. The belief in his reincarnation is central to the institution, with his selection involving specific omens and a rigorous identification process, including tests to confirm his connection to his predecessor.

Born Lhamo Thondup in 1935 in Taktser, Amdo, the 14th Dalai Lama's life took a significant turn with the Chinese annexation of Tibet. He assumed temporal duties in 1950 and, following the 1959 Tibetan uprising, escaped to India. He established the Tibetan government in exile in Dharamsala, India, where he continues to reside. In 2011, he retired as the political head to facilitate a democratic government for Tibetans. His primary focus remains advocating for the welfare of Tibetans and promoting a peaceful resolution with China through the Middle Way Approach, aiming to preserve Tibetan culture and identity within China.

Until his mid-80s, the Dalai Lama was a prominent global figure, traveling extensively to impart teachings on Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism, with his Kalachakra initiations drawing international attention. He actively participated in conferences covering diverse subjects, including the intersection of religion and science, and met with world leaders, religious figures, and scientists. Even with a reduced schedule since 2018, he continues to teach, primarily within India and via webcasts, addressing topics such as environmentalism, economics, nonviolence, interfaith dialogue, and the relationship between Buddhism and science.