US-born Buddhist lama Jalue Dorje, who has been recognized by His Holiness the Dalai Lama as the reincarnation of an esteemed spiritual leader, recently celebrated his 18th birthday with a dual-purpose event at the Tibetan American Foundation of Minnesota. The occasion also served as an enthronement ceremony, marking a significant milestone in Dorje’s journey as a spiritual teacher.
Dorje, whose spiritual recognition was confirmed at the age of two, is set to continue his training at the Mindrolling Monastery in northern India after graduating from high school. The move of more than 7,200 miles from his Minnesota home to one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most prominent institutions will transition Dorje fully into his role as a lama, with the responsibility of serving as a spiritual guide, teacher, and leader.
Nearly 1,000 people attended Dorje’s birthday and enthronement ceremony in Columbia Heights, a suburb north of Minneapolis. The event featured traditional Tibetan dances, prayers, and ceremonial offerings. The venue was adorned with an altar decorated with golden Buddha statues, flowers, and fruits, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan diaspora in the United States, and symbolizing a pivotal transition in Dorje’s life, as he prepares for a monastic role of contemplation and spiritual leadership.
In a speech, Dorje expressed his aspiration to follow the examples of leaders such as the Dalai Lama and Mahatma Gandhi, saying: “I want to become a leader of peace.” (Deseret News) After completing years of spiritual training, Dorje plans to return to Minnesota to serve the state’s Buddhist community, one of the largest Tibetan communities in the US.
The recognition of Dorje as a lama began when he was just four months old. Kyabje Trulshik Rinpoche, a revered master in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, identified Dorje through spiritual visions and signs. Several other lamas later confirmed him as the eighth reincarnation of Terchen Taksham Rinpoche, whose first incarnation dates to 1655.
The Dalai Lama officially recognized Dorje as a reincarnated lama at the age of two. During a visit to Wisconsin in 2010, the Dalai Lama met with Dorje’s family and advised them to let him grow up in the US so that he could master English and experience a balanced upbringing before beginning his monastic life.
Dorje’s training formally began with his enthronement in India in 2019, and he is now fluent in both Tibetan and English. This linguistic duality reflects the Dalai Lama’s guidance, allowing Dorje to bridge Tibetan Buddhist traditions with contemporary Western culture.
While aware of his spiritual responsibilities, Dorje has lived a relatively typical American childhood. An avid sports fan, he cheers for teams such as the Minnesota Timberwolves and Atlanta Falcons, and plays as a left guard on his high school football team. His daily routine includes early morning recitations of Buddhist prayers, school, football practice, and evening tutoring sessions on Tibetan history and Buddhist scriptures.
To keep him motivated during his scripture memorization, Dorje’s father often rewarded him with Pokémon cards. According to the Associated Press, Dorje blends these elements of a modern teenage lifestyle with his spiritual responsibilities, practicing calligraphy and running on a treadmill while listening to rap music.
Dorje’s decision to return to Minnesota after his monastic training reflects his commitment to preserving Tibetan Buddhist practices in the diaspora. The Tibetan community in Minnesota plays a vital role in maintaining cultural traditions, and Dorje aims to contribute by teaching and leading within this community.
“He’s somebody who’s going to be a leader, who’s going to teach compassion and peace and love and harmony among living beings,” said his uncle, Tashi Lama. (Newsweek)
As Dorje prepares for his move to India, his story highlights an intersection of ancient traditions and modern realities. His unique journey demonstrates the adaptability of Tibetan Buddhism in a multicultural and contemporary context, ensuring its continued relevance for future generations.
See more
Young buddhist lama celebrates last birthday at home in Minnesota (Deseret News)
Today he is a high school football player. Soon he’ll be a Buddhist lama in the Himalayas (AP)
Minnesota Buddhist Lama Celebrates 18th Birthday Before Himalayan Journey (Newsweek)
Related news reports from BDG
Minnesota Teen Prepares for Life as a Reincarnated Lama
Minnesota Police Charge Two Men in Connection with US Theft Ring Targeting Buddhist, Hindu Temples
Buddhist Temple Revives Sacred Cambodian Dance in Minnesota Farmland
His Holiness the Dalai Lama Attends Prayer Ceremony in New York City
Tibet House US Celebrates Buddhism and Tibetan Culture at 32nd Annual Benefit Concert
