Dalai Lama (14th)

Spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism

Contemporary influential 123 sayings

Sayings by Dalai Lama (14th)

Remember that sometimes not getting what you want is a wonderful stroke of luck.

2007 — Advice on acceptance
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

The planet does not need more successful people. The planet desperately needs more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers, and lovers of all kinds.

2010 — Speech on global priorities
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

I am open to guidance from the universe, and I don’t let my limited perception of reality get in the way.

2015 — Interview on spirituality
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

In the practice of tolerance, one’s enemy is the best teacher.

1993 — Teaching on patience
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

When you lose, don’t lose the lesson.

2002 — Advice on failure
Strange & Unusual Unverifiable

If scientific analysis were conclusively to demonstrate certain claims in Buddhism to be false, then we must accept the findings of science and abandon those claims.

2005 — Controversial stance on science vs. tradition
Controversial Unverifiable

China has turned Tibet into a hell on earth.

1993 — Speech criticizing Chinese occupation
Controversial Unverifiable

I am a Marxist monk.

1993 — Provocative self-description
Controversial Unverifiable

Sometimes I think I am a little bit lazy.

2010 — Interview with The Times of India
Humorous Unverifiable

I consider myself a simple Buddhist monk. Nothing more, nothing less.

c. 1980s-present — Various interviews and public statements
Humorous Unverifiable

I find that the great thing in this world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving.

c. late 20th century — Attributed, popular quote
Humorous Unverifiable

My main interest is to promote human values, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, self-discipline, contentment. That's my main interest.

c. 1990s — Interview
Humorous Unverifiable

I think the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
Humorous Unverifiable

Old friends pass away, new friends appear. It is just like the days. An old day passes, a new day arrives. The important thing is to make it meaningful: a meaningful friend — or a meaningful day.

1999 — Book: 'Ethics for the New Millennium'
Humorous Unverifiable

I always say that I am a student of Shantideva. That's my main guru.

c. 2000s — Public teaching
Humorous Unverifiable

The planet is our only home, and we must protect it.

c. 2000s — Environmental advocacy statement
Humorous Unverifiable

Happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
Humorous Unverifiable

When you practice gratefulness, there is a sense of respect toward others.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
Humorous Unverifiable

I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.

c. 2000s — Attributed, though often linked to Einstein, the Dalai Lama has used it or a similar sentiment
Humorous Unverifiable

The purpose of our lives is to be happy.

1998 — Book: 'The Art of Happiness'
Humorous Unverifiable