Of course, many wonder why this individual is so important. After a Dalai Lama passes away, it has traditionally been the responsibility of the High Lamas and the Tibetan Government to find his new reincarnation. There have been 14 Dalai Lamas within the history of Buddhism, with the first and second ones being from the 14th through 16th centuries being awarded the title posthumously.
Perhaps one of the most important religious figures in our world today would be the Dalai Lama.