There is a pattern in the modern world of problematic spiritual and political leaders. Very rarely can one be found that hasn’t at some point expressed an oppressive viewpoint, be it racist, sexist, homophobic, ableist or classist. Unfortunately, this includes His Holiness the Dalai Lama, head monk of Tibetan Buddhism. His Holiness recently said in an interview conducted by the BBC, “If female Dalai Lama come she must be very attractive, otherwise she’s not much use." This was accompanied by gestures at his face, furthering clarifying that he was referring to physical looks. Even when presented with an opportunity by Clive Myrie, his interviewer, to recant his statement (“You’re joking, I’m assuming?”), the Dalai Lama added, “No. It's true!”
The Dalai Lama is held in very high esteem by people around the world of every religion and creed, for his promotion of basic human value. Myrie put it best when he described His Holiness as a “religious rockstar” with many young followers. The Dalai Lama is looked up to as a barometer of morality and he has a significant impact on what is considered higher principles. To literally state that a woman’s value is directly linked to how “attractive” she is reduces women to a lesser status of human being, limiting their worth to no more than their external characteristics. At a point in time when a critical revival of the feminist movement is under way, disparaging discourse of this kind from an individual as prolific and influential, particularly on youth ideology, as the Dalai Lama is disappointing and unfortunate, especially because of his status as a preacher of equality.
His Holiness also made comments on the biological differences between males and females, stating that women have more of a capacity to be compassionate and affectionate. While that statement could be misconstrued as a compliment, it is an example of the rhetoric that spread from the Victorian era, a time of restrictive gender ideologies that connected personality and virtues with a person's biological sex, into the twentieth century. Feminist movements were based in the fight to eliminate that ideology. Not only is it scientifically inaccurate, but it perpetuates false stereotypes that are detrimental to women.
Following this interview, the blogosphere was overflowing with outraged articles, branding the Dalai Lama's remarks as sexist. What he said was more than just sexist - it was archaic. To say that a woman would only be of use in his position if she were attractive is a deplorable statement and reminiscent of a far less enlightened time. Which is ironic, considering His Holiness's role as an enlightened being.
