Dr King vs Dalai Lama
Upon comparing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Dalai Lama it becomes apparent that the two share many similar doctrines and beliefs. Although they come from two totally different backgrounds it seems as though their overall goals and dreams coincide. The most striking similarity is that both men advocated/advocate for peace and nonviolent solutions to problems. While they may have approached matters differently the goal was the same. Analyzing both men one begins to see that they are admired by so many people because of their philosophies.
Dr. King said, “… the nonviolent resister does not seek to humiliate or defeat the opponent but to win his friendship and understanding. ” In comparison, Dalai Lama said, “Real peace is not just the absence of violence or war…. A mere absence of war is not genuine lasting world peace. Peace must develop on mutual trust. ” Looking at only these two quotes one can see the likeness of thought the two men shared. Dr. King crusaded for civil rights for African Americans, while Dalai Lama is an advocate for the liberation of Tibet.
In both situations oppression is/was trying to be wiped out, due to environment and upbringing there are contrasts in the facets the men explored to achieve their goals. Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyasto, was born July 6th 1935 in Takster, Amdo in northeastern Tibet. He came from humble beginnings in farming village and lived with his family in a small hamlet. At the age of two he was deemed the reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama and his education began at age six.
Studying logic, Tibetan art and culture, Sanskrit, medicine, and Buddhist philosophy Dalai Lama proved to be a good student. At the age of twenty three he took his final exam and passed with flying colors, he received multiple honours and received the Geshe Lharampa degree in Leadership responsibilities (This is the highest degree in Tibet and is equivalent to a doctorate). Dr. King was born January 15th 1929 in Atlanta Georgia to Martin Luther King Sr. and Alberta Williams King.
