Category: Teachings
The Shifting Landscape of Buddhism in America
Ann Gleig takes a far-reaching look at how Buddhism and the conversations within it are changing in the twenty-first century.
Trust Practice, Practice Trust
When we truly give ourselves over to practice, explains Roko Sherry Chayat, we let go of our dependence on outcomes and begin to trust just being what we are, buddhanature, revealed right here, right now, in this very body and place.
Building a Better Self?
It sounds like a good thing to do, but psychiatrist and Buddhist teacher Mark Epstein says you should resist ego’s endless demands for self-improvement.
How Should I Balance My Buddhist Practice and Study?
I am relatively new to Buddhism and I’ve been struggling with the balance between study and practice. Is there an ideal balance between the two?
How to Read Buddhist Teachings
No matter where you begin, says Judy Lief, or whether you are an independent practitioner or affiliated with a particular tradition, all you have to do is to dive in.
Building Your Mental Muscles
Meditators and musclemen don’t seem to have much in common, but Thanissaro Bhikku says meditators can learn a lot from strength training.
Are We Really Meditating?
Elizabeth Mattis-Namgyel examines common misconceptions about Buddhist practice that can derail even the most seasoned practitioners.
In a Word, Dharma
Dharma is a fascinating term. It integrates many levels of experience—from our first moment on the path to the achievement of realization.
Forum: Understanding Dukkha
Mark Unno, Thubten Chodron, Bhikkhu Bodhi and Ayya Dhammadipa (known to some also as Konin Cardenas) examine Buddhist teachings on suffering, why suffering matters, and how we can approach it in our lives. Introduction by Anne Carolyn Klein.
The Science of the Mind and the Science of the Brain
While scientific methods are useful, says the Dalai Lama, mind should also be studied through rigorous observation of our own subjective experience.
Remembering Shunryu Suzuki
Lewis Richmond remembers the great teacher who founded the San Francisco Zen Center and played a historic role in the establishment of Buddhism in the West.
Buddhism Includes Everything — Even Comic Books
Comic artist John Porcellino tells Lauria Galbraith how Zen has inspired his comics and helped him through hard times.
Yes, Buddhism is a Religion
Buddhism shouldn’t be stereotyped as a New Age fad or reduced to a technique, says Scott Mitchell. We miss so much by not acknowledging what it is.
Creating a Good Ground for Meditation
Thanissaro Bhikkhu outlines five principles of the ethical, restrained life conducive to meditation practice.
Is It All My Karma?
When something bad happens to you, it isn’t necessarily the result of your own actions. Judy Lief offers a nuanced understanding of karma.
The Deep River of Dharma
Buddhadharma editor-in-chief Melvin McLeod takes a look at the journal’s relaunch, and its mission to support committed Buddhists.
The Real Meaning of Original Sin
Buddhists misrepresent the Christian view of human nature, says theologian Steven Shippee. It’s a lot closer to Buddhism than you think.
Just Do It
Whether you’re learning to meditate or ride a bike, says Ajahn Jayasaro, it’s not about how good you are or how far you get. The point is simply to practice with a sincere and consistent effort.
Do Buddhists try to convert people?
I’ve had some conversations with Buddhists who proselytize their view as right. Do Buddhists try to convert people like other religions do?
Wisdom Over Justice
Justice is of course a noble goal. But, says Thanissaro Bhikkhu, the Buddha emphasized a different approach to the achievement of harmony in the world.