Seek a deeper understanding of the fundamental and enduring questions that have been raised by thoughtful human beings in the rich traditions of the East.
Buddhism |
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China & Tibet in happier times
China and Tibet have a very long history together (take a look here) but it hasn't always been so inharmonious. For instance, the artistic synergy between the two peoples has been impressive, and a new exhibit at the Museum of Fine Art proves it: As each tradition interacted with the other, Chinese painters took from their Tibetan counterparts a fearlessness in use of color and composition, pushing at the boundaries of their more reserved styles," Scheier-Dolberg said. More » -
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What do Buddhists Believe?
Good question. And the answer will depend on who you ask. Is there a set of beliefs that all Buddhists share? I'm sure there's no definitive answer, but here's one noble credo that attempts to make it clear: This I believe: That phenomena do not have any kind of demonstrable, intrinsic existence. That anything that is the composite sum of other parts is, logically, impermanent. That suffering is a given in any form of existence where confusion and ignorance are present. That when confusion and ignorance have been definitively eliminated, and goodness, caring, and wisdom have entirely taken their place, that is true happiness. Click here for the entire article. More » -
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Daily Dharma - Keep respect for your own tradition
Generally speaking, it is better to keep one's own tradition. It is more suitable. But among some people—in the West they are usually Christians, Jews, and to some extent, Muslims—there is an interest in Buddhism. Sometimes, because of their individual mental dispositions, they do not find much in their own tradition that is effective, but they still want a spiritual practice. They feel a strong pull toward Buddhism, and then, of course, it is their right to follow Buddhism. After all, all religions belong to humanity. What's important is that once we make a decision to follow another religion, we must keep in our minds that we must avoid criticizing our own previous tradition. More » -
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Give your meditation practice a tune-up
Nodding off when you meditate? Impatient? Asking yourself "Why am I doing this?" Maybe you just need a nudge. The meditation doctor usually prescribes "The Meditator's Toolbox: Tricycle's 21 Tips to Power Your Practice." Here's a sample: Be patient When you plant seeds in the garden, you don’t dig them up every day to see if they have sprouted yet. You simply water them and clear away the weeds; you know that the seeds will grow in time. Similarly, just do your daily practice and cultivate a kind heart. Abandon impatience and instead be content creating the causes for goodness; the results will come when they’re ready.” - Tibetan Buddhist nun and author Bhikshuni Thubten Chodron More » -
What is Zen? 3 Takes by Robert Aitken Roshi
What is Zen? Many Zen Students and even a few teachers think Zen is a kind of psychology. This is a little like thinking that persimmons are a type of banana. Read what Zen is and what Zen isn't here. More » -
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Daily Dharma: To sum it up, "Don't cling."
There's no school that says "Cling." Liberation is about cutting, or dissolving, or letting go of, or seeing through—choose your image—the attachment to anything. The description of the mind of no-clinging may be different in the different schools, but the experience of the mind of no-clinging is the same. How could it be different? –Joseph Goldstein, from "How Amazing! An Interview with Joseph Goldstein," Tricycle, Summer 1999 Read the complete article. Sign up for the Daily Dharma or Tricycle Community Newsletter More »
