What His Holiness Said

Following is what His Holiness the Dalai Lama said during His November visit to Japan. [6th - 16th November 2010]

To a congregation of Japanese Monks
We are all free to make our choice. It is not necessary to become a monk to become a good practitioner. But if you decide to become a monk and take the required vows, then you must sincerely live and practice as defined in the vows. Putting on monk's robe without actually practicing is not going to help you, and the society and the Buddha Dharma.

On Hiroshima and Nagasaki
Hiroshima and Nagasaki cities will live throughout the history to remind the humanity of the destructive nature of nuclear weapons and wars. May these two cities be the first and the last places to witness the weapons of mass destruction.

On Disarmament
When we talk of disarmament; we tend to focus on external factors only. While external disarmament is necessary, real disarmament should start from internal disarmament. We should first disarm ourselves from hatred and anger in our heart, and try to find peace within ourselves, only then the external disarmament will work.

To Japanese Youngsters
Young Japanese should know that they are in a good position to learn, acquire knowledge and contribute to the society. Unfortunately, we hear many are depressed and suicide case is high. You need to look at life from a broader perspective. There are many who are placed in a less unfortunate state, thinking only about yourself and Japan may be suffocating. So go out and see what you can do, the world is waiting for you. But in order to contribute meaningfully, you should learn English.

On his English
My English is broken English, but even this broken English is very useful. It enables me to communicate with many people.

On the problems in this World
The world and the governments belong to people. Problem comes when some leaders thinks the other way round.