In Buddhism, there are various spiritual leaders, teachers, and figures who have played significant roles in the tradition’s development and dissemination of teachings. Here are some categories of spiritual leaders in Buddhism:

• The Buddha: Siddhartha Gautama, known as the historical Buddha, is the central figure in Buddhism. He is considered the supreme spiritual leader and the founder of the Buddhist path. The Buddha’s enlightenment and teachings form the core of Buddhist philosophy and practice.
• Bodhisattvas: Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings who, out of compassion, postpone their own enlightenment (Nirvana) to remain in the cycle of birth and death (Samsara) to help others achieve liberation. Bodhisattvas are revered figures in Mahayana Buddhism, and some of the well-known Bodhisattvas are Avalokiteshvara (Kuan Yin), Manjushri, and Samantabhadra.
• Dalai Lama: The Dalai Lama is a prominent spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. The title “Dalai Lama” refers to the successive incarnations of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who are believed to be reborn to continue their compassionate work for the benefit of all sentient beings. The current Dalai Lama is the 14th Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso.
• Panchen Lama: The Panchen Lama is another important spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism, considered the second-highest ranking figure after the Dalai Lama. The Panchen Lama is also believed to be a reincarnation of a previous enlightened being.
• Masters and Lamas: Within various Buddhist lineages and schools, there are respected teachers and lamas who have attained a high level of realization and knowledge. They serve as guides and mentors for their disciples, transmitting the teachings and leading spiritual communities.

• Zen Masters: In Zen Buddhism, the title “Zen Master” is given to accomplished practitioners who have received Dharma transmission, authorizing them to teach and guide others on the Zen path.
• Ajahns: In Theravada Buddhism, particularly in the Thai Forest Tradition, the term “Ajahn” is used to address senior monks or meditation masters who are revered for their wisdom and spiritual attainment.