Traditionally, the abbots of the big Gelug monasteries have the blessings of the Dalai Lama to hold that position. That extends to the positions of Sharpa Choeje and Jangtse Choeje, and even the Gaden Tripa too.
Hello Duldzin-
How do you come by this information, please?
From my understanding, Geshe Lharampas and Tsogrampas from the big three monasteries enter Gyume or Gyuto as Geshe Karampas. Once they pass their tantric debates, they become Ngagrampas. From among these, three disciplinarians are chosen each year. From among the former disciplinarians, a Lama Umdze is chosen. The Lama Umdze hold his position for three years, then becomes Abbot. The senior-most retired Abbot of Gyumay becomes the Jangtse Chojey, and the senior-most retired Abbot of Gyuto becomes the Shartse Chojey. These two masters alternate in becoming the Ganden Tripa.
I have never heard that the Dalai Lama had anything to do with it. Once one is Lama Umdze, it is really a matter of fortune who becomes the Tri Rinpoche. Unless the DL chosses the Lama Umdze, he's not involved.
At least that is how it used to be. Now The DL just chooses who he likes.
I have a hard time believing that the sixth, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh or twelfth Dalai Lamas had anything whatsoever to do with this process, nor did the first through fourth. Do you have any information that the Fifth, Seventh or Thirteenth DID? Even if so, does that make it traditional?
interested,
CC