1. Spiritual Guidance: High-ranking lamas, such as the Panchen Lama or other senior monks, rely on spiritual signs, visions, and oracles to guide the search for the Dalai Lama's reincarnation. These signs may include dreams, omens, or indications from sacred sites like Lhamo Latso, a holy lake in Tibet.
2. Search Committee: A group of senior monks and officials, often appointed by the Dalai Lama's office or the Tibetan government-in-exile, conducts the search. They look for a child born around the time of the previous Dalai Lama's death, based on the belief in reincarnation.
3. Identification Process: Potential candidates are tested through various means, such as recognizing objects belonging to the previous Dalai Lama or displaying unusual spiritual qualities. The process is meticulous and guided by tradition.
4. Confirmation: The final decision is typically confirmed by senior lamas, with input from oracles and sometimes the Tibetan government-in-exile. Historically, the Dalai Lama's recognition was also subject to approval by the Chinese government, but this has been contested in recent times, especially with the current Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, who lives in exile.