The Fifth Dalai Lama, Lobsang Gyatso, was born in Lhoka Chingwar Taktse, South of Lhasa. He was born to Dudul Rabten and Kunga Lhanzi. Sonam Choephel, the Chief attendant of the fourth Dalai Lama visited the child upon hearing the unique abilities of the young boy. The boy recognized the articles shown as his previous possession. Owing to the political unrest at the time, Sonam Choephel kept the discovery of the Fifth Dalai Lama a secret. When the situation improved, the Fifth Dalai Lama was taken to Drepung monastery where he was ordained into monkhood by the Third Panchen Lama, Lobsang Chogyal, and was named Ngawang Lobsang Gyatso. The Fifth Dalai Lama was renowned for unifying Tibet with Mongolian military backing in 1642. He also played an integral role in the creation of a theocratic government led by the Dalai Lamas.
GREAT FIFTH DALAI LAMA
He was skilled in Sanskrit and was known as a prominent scholar. He published many books, including one on poetry. He also established two educational institutions, one for lay officials and another for monk officials. In the year 1682, at the age of sixty-five, he passed away before completing the construction of the Potala Palace. However, he confided the responsibility of the construction to Sangya Gyatso, the new Desi with the advice to keep his death secret for the time being.
