The Nechung Oracle

Abstract The seventh and final chapter examines the history of the Nechung Oracle, whose vague beginnings give way to institutionalization and state advancement. This figure has been an important part of the Dalai Lama’s government since the seventeenth century and continues to act in the capacity of clairvoyant advisor today. Nevertheless, although the oracle’s origins are unclear, he had consistent involvement with the Dalai Lamas since the second incarnation. The Fifth Dalai Lama then gave the Nechung Oracle noticeably more attention in his writings, which herald the deity’s rapidly growing prestige. While now living in exile, the Nechung Oracle continues to engage with important religious and political figures, and is revered by Tibetans the world over.