Archives: BD Articles
Is Buddhism a “Teaching of Images”?
Lama Hun Lye explores the power of images and how we can take inspiration from the different ways the awakened state has been represented across Buddhist traditions.
The Logic of Not-self
Thanissaro Bhikkhu, featured author in the Summer 2023 "Power & The Practitioner" issue of Buddhadharma, explores the Buddha’s teachings on how a sense of self is formed, how we use the five aggregates to define the self, and how to deconstruct the process.
Power & You (Summer 2023 Editor’s Note)
Buddhadharma editor Rod Meade Sperry introduces the Summer 2023 issue.
Am I Supposed to Stop Thinking?
Three Buddhist teachers answer the question "Are we supposed to stop or transcend thinking altogether, or to find another, more enlightened way to think?"
Nalanda: Powerful Then, Powerful Now
Jan Westerhoff explores what we know about the days when Nalanda flourished and what the essential teachings that emerged from it mean for us now.
Stepping Stones of Emptiness
The teachings on emptiness were studied, debated, and refined at Nalanda. They come to life now, says Gaylon Ferguson, in the progressive deepening of our meditation practice.
Vague? No. Ungraspable? Yes.
According to Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel, the "Heart Sutra," the best-known text of the Mahayana wisdom tradition, unfolds as a most unusual conversation that leads us to what lies beyond our concepts.
Profound View, Precise Conduct
Adrienne Chang shows how Shantideva joined the way we see with the way we act in his classic guide to living the life of a bodhisattva.
From Brilliant Scholar to Wandering Yogi
Naropa, among the most revered figures in Vajrayana Buddhism, began as one of Nalanda’s foremost scholar–practitioners. Elizabeth Monson tells the story of his transformation from brilliant pandita to fierce and wild yogi.
The Journey to Where We Already Are
According to Francesca Fremantle, Buddhist tantra is based on the simple proposition that we’re already where we need to be. We simply need to allow ourselves to truly realize it.
The Boundless Energy of No-Self
Zoketsu Norman Fischer on his deep love for Shantideva and how the great teacher’s insights lead us unavoidably to a path of vigorous service to the world.
Fresh Bread, Ancient Recipes
Barry Boyce shares why Nalanda’s spirit of open inquiry is just what’s needed to keep Buddhism alive and vibrant in each generation.
What separates secular mindfulness from Buddhism?
Myozen Joan Amaral, Rev. Marvin Harada, and Pema Khandro Rinpoche answer a question about secular expressions of Buddhism.
Abortion, the Legal System, and Skillful Means
In the opening commentary of the Winter 2022 issue of Buddhadharma, Lama Karma Chötso shares her experience as one of seven clergy in Miami-Dade County who filed lawsuits seeking to invalidate House Bill 5.
The Practice of No Practice
Nagapriya on Shinran, the vision of Shin Buddhism, and the practice of Nembutsu.
How Do We Cultivate Dharma Teachers?
Ven. Pannavati, Rev. Blayne Higa, Rev. Myokei Caine-Barrett, and Kakumyo Lowe-Charde explore the complexities of guiding others toward leadership roles.
Affinity Sanghas and the Practice of Refuge
Arisika Razak explores the history, meaning, and ultimate refuge of affinity-group sanghas.
Translation, Transmission, and the Act of Surrender
Cinthia Font and Lama Karma Yeshe Chodron, share not only the place the translator holds in the transmission of the dharma, but also how it feels to sit in that seat and hold that responsibility.
The Four Points of Letting Go in the Bardo
It’s when we lose the illusion of control—a "bardo" state where we are most vulnerable and exposed—that we can discover the creative potential of our lives.
The Hope We Need Now
As Trump returns to the US presidency, many are fearful about what will happen in the next four years. But we can’t lose hope, says Zen teacher Roshi Joan Halifax. It just needs to be wise hope.