His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, born Lhamo Thondup, is a key figure in The Book of Joy. Recognized as the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, he holds a significant place in the religious and cultural history of Tibet. The Dalai Lama was identified as the reincarnation of his predecessor at the age of two, and he assumed full political power over Tibet at 15, only to be driven into exile by the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959. His life in exile in India has been marked by his commitment to promoting non-violence and compassion, for which he received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989.

In The Book of Joy, the Dalai Lama’s perspectives are influenced by his Buddhist beliefs and his experiences of loss, displacement, and living as a refugee. His teachings in the book reflect his personal understanding of suffering and the human condition, informed by Buddhist traditions. He emphasizes the importance of internal mental states in achieving happiness and joy, advocating for compassion, mindfulness, and ethical living as paths to inner peace.

The interactions between the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu reveal individual characteristics of the Dalai Lama that align with his public persona as a spiritual leader.