Whenever a Dalai Lama died, a search began for his reincarnation. The __(16)__ male child had to have certain qualities. __(17)__ was the ability to identify the belongings of his predecessor, or rather his previous self. Another requirement was __(18)__ he should have large ears, upward-slanting eyes and eyebrows. Besides, one of his hands should bear a mark like a conch-shell. The successful candidate, usually __(19)__ two or three, was then removed from his family to Lhasa to begin spiritual training for his future role. The Panchen Lamas were chosen in a similar way. The reincarnated leaders were always “discovered” in the households of lowly families __(20)__ noble ones. This was to ensure that no single and powerful noble family could seize the title and pass it to the next generation.
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