Last updated on October 24, 2025
No, it is not allowed. In China, particularly within Tibetan Buddhism, reincarnation of high-ranking religious figures such as “Living Buddhas” must follow a formal approval process regulated by the State Administration for Religious Affairs. Unauthorized reincarnation is subject to administrative penalties.
Reincarnation, With Bureaucracy
In most cultures, reincarnation is a spiritual affair—mystical, deeply personal, and often beyond the reach of earthly institutions. But in China, the process of reincarnating as a Tibetan Buddhist “Living Buddha” (or tulku) is not just a matter of faith; it’s a matter of state.
Since 2007, the Chinese government has required that all reincarnations of Tibetan Buddhist lamas undergo a formal approval process. This regulation, known officially as the Measures on the Management of the Reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism, was issued by the State Administration for Religious Affairs and came into effect on September 1, 2007. It’s not just a guideline—it’s law.
Why Regulate Rebirth?
The rationale behind this regulation is rooted in both history and politics. Tibetan Buddhism has long held a unique place in China’s religious landscape, especially in regions like Tibet, Qinghai, and Sichuan. The reincarnation system is central to the religion’s leadership structure, and historically, it has wielded significant influence over local governance and cultural identity.
To ensure that reincarnation does not become a tool for foreign interference or internal unrest, the Chinese government framed the regulation as a way to “protect religious freedom” while also “maintaining national unity and social harmony.” The law explicitly states that reincarnations must not be influenced by any foreign organization or individual.
How the Process Works
Reincarnation in China isn’t just a spiritual journey—it’s a bureaucratic one. The process begins with a formal application submitted by the monastery or Buddhist association where the reincarnated lama is expected to reside. This application must pass through multiple layers of government, starting at the county level and moving up to provincial religious affairs departments.
If the reincarnated figure is deemed to have “major influence,” the application must be approved by the State Administration for Religious Affairs. For reincarnations with “especially significant influence,” the final stamp of approval must come from the State Council itself.
Once approved, a reincarnation guidance group is formed, and a search committee begins the process of identifying the reincarnated child, known as the “soul boy.” Even this recognition must follow traditional rituals—unless the government decides otherwise.
Consequences of Unauthorized Reincarnation
Attempting to reincarnate without permission is not just frowned upon—it’s illegal. The regulation clearly states that any unauthorized reincarnation activity will be subject to administrative penalties under the Regulations on Religious Affairs. This includes both individuals and institutions involved in the process.
In other words, reincarnating without a permit in China could land you in serious trouble—not in the next life, but in this one.
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Sources
Measures on the Management of the Reincarnation of Living Buddhas in Tibetan Buddhism
https://www.gov.cn/gongbao/content/2008/content_923053.htm
2007-07-18
LAWS & REGULATIONS – State Council of the People’s Republic of China
https://english.www.gov.cn/archive/lawsregulations
2020-12-31