Avalokiteshvara's 13 Dalai Lamas

and China could cause great suffering not only among Tibetans but also could put China on a path of confrontation with the West potentially leading to a new "Cold War" or even World War III. Meanwhile, if the United States and its confederate are able to help Tibetans and Chinese reconcile their differences, not only might Tibetans enjoy peace and self-determination but China might also become a responsible global power that respect. even personify human rights and democratic values. His Holiness is considered to be the reincarnation of each of the previous thirteen Dalai Lamas of Tibet (the first having been born in 1391 AD), who are in turn considered to be manifestations of Avalokiteshvara. holder of the White Lotus. “I am often asked whether
I truly believe this. The answer is not simple to give. But as a fifty-six year old, when I consider my experience during this present life, and given my Buddhist beliefs, I have no difficulty accepting that I am spiritually connected both to the thirteen previous Dalai Lamas, to Chenrezig and to the Buddha himself”.