The CCP’s Orwellian Control Over Tibetan Buddhism: A Critical Examination of Beijing’s Scriptural Interpretation Seminar

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the United Front recently organized a “Tibetan Buddhist Scriptures Interpretation Seminar” in Beijing, drawing international criticism. Held on November 9 and 10, the seminar is perceived as a move by the CCP to tighten its grip on Tibetan Buddhism.

The CCP stands accused of manipulating the interpretation of sacred Tibetan Buddhist texts, effectively aligning religious discourse with the party’s ideology. The decision to host such a seminar under the banner of the United Front, an organization known for extending party influence beyond official channels, highlights the covert nature of the CCP’s approach. Using this platform, the CCP seeks to present its intervention in Tibetan Buddhism as a collaborative effort, masking the authoritarian undertones of its actions.

The CCP’s strategy involves issuing directives from the so-called false Panchen Lama, a puppet carefully chosen by the party. This extends to the interpretation of Tibetan Buddhist scriptures, where the CCP aims to shape the spiritual landscape according to its preferences. By manipulating the interpretation of these sacred texts, the CCP aims to exert influence over the minds and beliefs of Tibetan Buddhists, suppressing dissent within the religious community.

Furthermore, the CCP is accused of asserting that Tibetan Buddhism is merely a product of the Sinicization of Buddhism, a form of Chinese Buddhism. This historical distortion not only undermines the rich heritage of Tibetan Buddhism but also serves as a tool for cultural subjugation. CCP-approved “living Buddha” Drukhang Thubten Khedrup has even declared Tibetan Buddhism a Chinese religion, misappropriating cultural identity to pave the way for the imposition of “Chinese interpretations” on Tibetan Buddhist classics.

The CCP is also attempting to use socialist core values as a guide for interpreting sacred scriptures. Drukhang Thubten Khedrup contends that a “Chinese interpretation” of Tibetan Buddhist classics must be rooted in socialist core values. This distortion of religious principles aligns with the CCP’s broader strategy of co-opting religion to serve its political agenda, violating religious freedom and autonomy.

The CCP insists on promoting the adaptation of Tibetan Buddhism to a socialist society with “Chinese characteristics.” Whether this adaptation is a genuine evolution or a calculated move to impose conformity remains unclear. CCP-controlled scholars and pseudo-living Buddha argue for the necessity of educating and guiding monks to align with the Sinicization of Tibetan Buddhism, implying forced assimilation that stifles the diverse aspects of Tibetan Buddhist practice.

The recent seminar in Beijing underscores the extent of the Chinese government’s attempt to control and manipulate Tibetan Buddhism. By appointing a false Panchen Lama and dictating scriptural interpretation, the CCP aims to reshape the spiritual landscape. The Orwellian use of socialist core values raises serious concerns about religious freedom and autonomy. The international community must remain vigilant and condemn such attempts to subjugate the rich cultural and religious heritage of Tibet.