DHARMSALA, India - The Dalai Lama threatened Tuesday to step down as leader of Tibet’s government-in-exile if violence committed by Tibetans in his homeland spirals out of control. Demonstrations in Tibet turned increasingly violent last week, and the Dalai Lama, speaking to reporters, urged his countrymen to show restraint. He said that “if things become out of control” his “only option is to completely resign http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23686441
I wonder how this will affect the image that Buddhism has in the world. IMO, in the public teachings of the Dalai Lama, in the way the whole thing was promoted and marketed, Buddhism has come across very much as hippie philosophy but with some historical tradition - which is a disservice to Buddhism and to people. His public teachings are not all there is, of course, but his public teachings are what leaves the most lasting impression on the public. I am afraid his calls to pacifism are going to elicit even more anger and rebellion on all sides. Because without a proper understanding of karma and the Four Brahmaviharas, it is impossible to be goodwilled and compassionate for any longer period of time, and especially not when oppressed.
