FOR A MAN who is often seen to symbolise humanity itself, the Dalai Lama has an unusual and out-of-character view on whether he could have a female successor.
His comments in an interview the BBC’s Clive Myrie, Tibet’s spiritual leader was questioned on whether there will be a 15th reincarnation, and if that person could be female.
The Dalai Lama responded to say “why not”, and that that women “biologically” have the potential to show more affection and compassion, adding that they should take on more important roles in today’s “troubled world”.
However, recalling his comments made to a reporter in Paris several years, he added that there is a stipulation on this, which Jezebel first reported on.
Here’s how the conversation went, which has since raised eyebrows across the world:
DL: And then I told that reporter, if a female Lama come, their face must be very, very, should be very attractive.
CM: So, you can only have a female Dalai Lama if they’re attractive? Is that what you’re saying? You can’t have…
DL: I mean, if female Dalai Lama come, then that female…
CM: … will be?
DL: … must be, very attractive, otherwise not much use.
CM: Really?
DL: Some people, my face…
CM: You’re joking, I’m assuming? Oh, you’re not joking.
DL: Oh? I mean, true!
He goes on joke about his good looks, and how he couldn’t become a “religious rockstar” without them.
While these comments might be surprising, it must also be taken into account that something may have been lost in translation. English is not the Dalai Lama’s first language.
Earlier in the interview, he appears to say that it may be necessary to use force against the so-called Islamic State, but when asked for a second time by Myrie, he responds no, and so care was taken when this line of questioning came up.
Watch the interview in full below, and skip to 4.50 for the controversial comments.
Read: Dalai Lama crosses Derry Peace Bridge with Catholic and Protestant children >
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