Paul McCartney's Dalai dalliance

Sep 24, 2008, 9:55 GMT

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama getstures toweards people greeting him upon his arrival at Gagal Airport in northern Indian town of Dharamshala, 09 September 2008. Dalai Lama suffered from an abdominal discomfort and was also hospitalised at Mumbai\'s Lilavati hospital from where he was discharged on 01 September 2008. EPA/STR

Sir Paul McCartney is seeking advice from the Dalai Lama.

The Beatles legend, who has received death threats over his plans to perform in Israel for the country's 60th birthday celebrations tomorrow (25.09.08), received a book from the Buddhist leader which gave him courage and hope.

Paul, who has been warned by Islamic extremist Omar Bakri "if he values his life" he should stay away, said: "I am reading a book - 'The Universe in a Single Atom' - that I have been sent by the Dalai Lama, which is comparing some Buddhist philosophy to modern quantum physics.

"Its quite striking that modern science has many things in common with some of the ancient religions. I think we are at a very interesting stage in human development and I just hope for the best and I am optimistic about it.

"I always think of myself as spiritual rather than religious. But I do feel that the world is a magnificent place and that we are blessed to be on it."

The 66-year-old musician, who has found love with US millionairess Nancy Shevell since his bitter divorce from Heather Mills, has been invited to perform in Israel more than 40 years after the country banned The Beatles fearing they would corrupt its young people.

The band was scheduled to appear in 1965, but after claiming their music might corrupt the country's morals, the government refused to grant them permits.

Following the Dalai Lama's advice, Paul is now confident the concert will be successful and peaceful because he has faith in people.

Paul added: "Any high-profile event brings some worries but I have a very good team of people. I think most people understand that my message is a global and peaceful one.

"My mission, if I have one, is humanitarian, and concerns all people, not just a few."