living Buddha; grand Lama
Refers to a high-ranking Tibetan Buddhist teacher believed to be a reincarnated Buddha, such as the Dalai Lama or Panchen Lama. Used in religious and historical contexts.
Living Buddhas play an important role in Tibetan Buddhism.
The Dalai Lama is one of the most well-known living Buddhas.
From 活 (living) + 仏 (Buddha). The term is a direct translation of the concept of a 'living Buddha' in Tibetan Buddhism.