Dalai Lama

Although His Holiness often presents himself as a simple Buddhist monk, he is the spiritual leader of Tibet, Mongolia, Himalayan regions and Buddhist territories of the Russian Federation (Kalmykia, Buryatia, Transbaikalia and Tuva) and other countries. He often mentions that he has three main commitments in this life:

 

Promotion of Human Values

Firstly, on the level of a human being, His Holiness’ first commitment is the promotion of human values such as compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, contentment and self-discipline. All human beings are the same. We all want happiness and do not want suffering. Even people who do not believe in religion recognize the importance of these human values in making their life happier. His Holiness refers to these human values as secular ethics. He remains committed to talk about the importance of these human values and share them with everyone he meets.

 

Promotion of Religious Harmony

Secondly, on the level of a religious practitioner, His Holiness’ second commitment is the promotion of religious harmony and understanding among the world’s major religious traditions. Despite philosophical differences, all major world religions have the same potential to create good human beings. It is therefore important for all religious traditions to respect one another and recognize the value of each other’s respective traditions. As far as one truth, one religion is concerned, this is relevant on an individual level. However, for the community at large, several truths, several religions are necessary.

 

Tibet

Thirdly, His Holiness is a Tibetan and carries the name of the ‘Dalai Lama’. Therefore, his third commitment is to work to preserve Tibet's Buddhist culture, a culture of peace and non-violence.

For more information about His Holiness the Dalai Lama, his books, videos of his public talks and teachings please visit the official web-site: dalailama.com