Teen Lama Studies in Nepal

Why this is here: Jalue Dorje decorated his white Crocs with Jibbitz charms of “The Simpsons” and wore them at Shechen Monastery, near one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most sacred sites.

In Kathmandu, Nepal, 19-year-old Jalue Dorje, a reincarnated lama originally from Columbia Heights, Minnesota, recently completed sacred rituals and teachings at the Shechen Monastery. Dorje balances his monastic life with interests common to American teenagers, like video games and sports. He graduated high school last year and moved to India to study at the Mindrolling Monastery, following a path recognized by the Dalai Lama when he was just two years old.

Dorje grew up immersed in both American culture and Tibetan Buddhism, memorizing scriptures while also enjoying rap music and football. His parents supported his spiritual training while prioritizing his education in the United States, a decision encouraged by the Dalai Lama. He continues to connect with friends and family back home, finding ways to integrate his two worlds.

Though now deeply engaged in monastic life, Dorje envisions a future where he can return to Minnesota to teach and serve as a spiritual leader. Identifying and confirming reincarnated lamas like Dorje relies on spiritual signs and visions, a process that dates back to 1655. The work of understanding and embodying this ancient lineage continues.