H.h. Dalai Lama Quotes & Sayings

What marks the transition from non-sentient to sentient beings? A model of increasing complexity based on evolution through natural selection is simply a descriptive hypothesis, a kind of euphemism for "mystery," and not a satisfactory explanation. — Dalai Lama XIV

Instead of looking to blame others and the world around us, we should first look within ourselves. This — Dalai Lama XIV

Something is lacking. As one of the seven billion human beings, I believe everyone has the responsibility to develop a happier world. We need, ultimately, to have a greater concern for others' well-being. In other words, kindness or compassion, which is lacking now. We must pay more attention to our inner values. We must look inside." He — Dalai Lama XIV

No one can afford to assume that someone else will solve their problems. — Dalai Lama

I think Dalai Lama efforts have been heroic. — Pico Iyer

In Tibet there were practitioners in retreat who so strongly reflected on impermanence that they would not wash their dishes after supper. - PALTRUL RINPOCHE'S SACRED WORD — Dalai Lama XIV

The natural environment sustains the life of all beings universally. — Dalai Lama

We need to teach people that the environment has a direct bearing on our own benefit. — Dalai Lama

I usually say the aim of life is to be happy. Our existence is based on hope. Our life is rooted in the opportunity to be happy, not necessarily wealthy, but happy within our own minds. If we only indulge in sensory pleasure, we'll be little different from animals. In fact, we have this marvellous brain and intelligence; we must learn to use it. — Dalai Lama

The present is that elusive moment between what no longer exists and what has not yet happened. These notions that we take as "reality" are pure intellectual fabrications that do not involve an independent reality, existent in itself. According — Dalai Lama XIV

While people are often content to criticize and blame others for what goes wrong, surely we should at least attempt to put forward constructive ideas. One thing is for certain: given human beings' love of truth, justice, peace, and freedom, creating a better, more compassionate world is a genuine possibility. The potential is there. — Dalai Lama

When we encounter suffering, it is important to respond w/ compassion rather than to question the politics of those we help. — Dalai Lama

If we want to save the world, we must have a plan. But no plan will work unless we meditate. — Dalai Lama

Open-minded people tend to be interested in Buddhism because Buddha urged people to investigate things - he didn't just command them to believe. — Dalai Lama

By mobilizing our thoughts and practicing new ways of thinking, we can reshape our nerve cells and change the way our brains work. — Dalai Lama XIV

First one must change. I first watch myself, check myself, then expect changes from others. — Dalai Lama

In some cases is keeping your mouth shut the best answer. — Dalai Lama

True friends share genuine closeness and remain friends irrespective of fluctuating fortunes. — Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama took the Archbishop's hand, and then they were more eight than eighty, laughing and making jokes together as they strolled toward the terminal, yellow umbrella sheltering above them. Even — Dalai Lama XIV

If you develop a pure and sincere motivation, if you are motivated by a wish to help on the basis of kindness, compassion, and respect, then you can carry on any kind of work, in any field, and function more effectively. — Dalai Lama

It is time to fill the world with strong and powerful deeds. It is common knowledge that no great captain in the world has ever destroyed all of his enemies and lived with a sense of satisfaction. If one enemy is killed, two more will appear. It is important we cultivate love and compassion to all the sentient beings which is the way to bring peace to all. — Dalai Lama

It's not enough to be compassionate. You must act. — Dalai Lama

All problems, including terrorism, can be overcome through education, particularly by introducing concern for all others at the preschool level. — Dalai Lama XIV

Without inner peace it is impossible to have world peace. — Dalai Lama

I believe that to meet the challenge of our times, human beings will have to develop a greater sense of universal responsibility. We must all learn to work not just for our own self, family, or nation but for the benefit of all humankind. Universal responsibility is the key to human survival. It is the best foundation for world peace, the equitable use of natural resources, and through concern for future generations, the proper care of the environment. — Dalai Lama

Most REAL change is slow. Happiness and joy are the purpose of life. If we know that the future will be very dark or painful, then we lose our determination to live. Therefore, life is something based on hope. — Dalai Lama

Some consider me as a living Buddha. That's nonsense. That's silly. That's wrong. If they consider me a simple Buddhist monk, however, that's probably okay. — Dalai Lama

I call the light and high aspects of my being spirit and the dark and heavy aspects soul. — Dalai Lama

A thousand candles can be lit from one candle, however the life of the original candle is not shortened in the least. — Dalai Lama

Compassion suits our physical condition, whereas anger, fear and distrust are harmful to our well-being. Therefore, just as we learn the importance of physical hygiene to physical health, to ensure healthy minds, we need to learn some kind of emotional hygiene. — Dalai Lama