Join us as we explore the history of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual head of the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism and the enduring symbol of Tibetan nationhood,. We trace the lineage back to its mythical roots, where the Dalai Lamas are believed to be incarnations of Avalokiteśvara, the bodhisattva of compassion, sent to protect the people of Tibet,. Discover how the title, meaning "Ocean Guru," was first bestowed by the Mongol ruler Altan Khan in 1578 and applied retroactively to the first two incarnations,.

We delve into the rise of the "Great Fifth" Dalai Lama, who unified Tibet in 1642 and established the Ganden Phodrang government, beginning a 300-year reign of political and religious authority,. The episode examines the complex "priest and patron" relationship with the Manchu Qing dynasty, exploring the contested interpretations of Tibe ...