The Single Life 

Why do so many people believe the key to feeling fulfilled is having a partner? Nhi Yến Đỗ Trần on how she finds fulfillment in simplicity, solitude, and self-discovery.

Commentary: Protecting Human Dignity from the Threat of Moral Nihilism

​In Vietnam for the UN International Day of Vesak in Ho Chi Minh City from May 5-8.​, Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi​ gave the ​May 6th keynote address​. ​H​is topic​: “Protecting Human Dignity from the Threat of Moral Nihilism.” In his concluding remarks he focuses on Gaza as “the epicenter of the contest between the forces of moral nihilism and our obligation to protect human dignity.” An adaptation of the address follows here.

A hand holds a blue Catholic rosary.

The Convergence of Catholicism and Zen

In this Q&A, Ruben Habito explains why he is both Catholic and Zen Buddhist. In both traditions, he says, there’s a stillness where no words are needed.

How to Free Yourself from the 7 Obsessions

To free ourselves from habitual patterns, says Valerie Mason-John, we need to see how they have become part of our identity.

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A Spring Prayer

Shozan Jack Haubner presents a prayer for the chaotic awakening of nature that is spring.

Transcending Time with Umeboshi

Elissa Altman shares the story of "Grandma's Ghost," a 30-year-old Japanese <em>umeboshi</em> plum, and the healing it brought in this difficult time.

New York Buddhists support detainee Mohsen Mahdawi

The Buddhist Council of New York and the Columbia University Buddhist Association have both called for the release of Mohsen Mahdawi, the former president of the C.U.B.A., who is facing deportation.

New York City Co-Names Street “Thich Nhat Hanh Way” in Honor of Renowned Zen Teacher

On April 11, New York City co-named a stretch of West 109th Street “Thich Nhat Hanh Way” in a moving tribute to the late Zen teacher. Sandi Rankaduwa reports on the historic ceremony.

two people running down the long hallway, scene from the Apple TV+ show Severance

The Samsara of “Severance”

The surreal Apple TV+ series not only shows us the workings of karma and suffering, says Kim Thai, it also hints at liberation.

New Buddhist Coalition for Democracy launches, issues Call to Action

“As Buddhists, we are called upon to witness, respond to, and resist the ongoing systematic destruction of norms and institutions that allow free societies to flourish,” the Buddhist Coalition for Democracy’s Call to Action reads.

Seeking Buddha in Gaza

As a Buddhist and a Jew, Linda Hess considers how to respond with wisdom and compassion to the violence inflicted on the people of Gaza and the rage she feels about it. Paintings by Malak Mattar.

I Vow Not to Burn Out

Mushim Patricia Ikeda says it's not enough to help others. You have to take care of yourself too.

Welcoming the Year of the Wood Snake

For Tibetan Buddhists, this week marks Losar, the new year — a time to clean house, cherish family, make offerings, contemplate the past year and welcome the new.

overhead view of two pods, a man and woman sitting in each pod.

The Blind Passions of “Love Is Blind”

Netflix’s <i>Love Is Blind</i> isn’t just melodramatic reality TV, says Rev. Jean-Paul deGuzman. It’s a mirror for our own attachments and delusions.

We Remember: Six Remarkable Black Buddhists

In celebration of Black History Month, we find inspiration in the lives and practice of six remarkable Black Buddhists.

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Building a Community of Love: bell hooks and Thich Nhat Hanh

In this conversation, bell hooks and Thich Nhat Hanh reflect on the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., and discuss how we can build a community of love.

A Body Scan Meditation for Stress Relief

From your facial muscles down to your toes, body scan meditation can relieve stress and help you discover what your body really needs.

Books in Brief: January 2025

Jessica Little reviews a batch of new books for Lion's Roar.

Mindful Cooking with Chef Bryant Terry

How can all communities thrive? Bryant Terry on the importance of cooking mindfully.

Matthieu Ricard: The Path to a Compassionate Society

In this video interview, Buddhist monk Matthieu Ricard joins Lion’s Roar editor-in-chief Melvin McLeod to discuss compassion as a transformative force for addressing the challenges of our time. Drawing on his decades of humanitarian work with Karuna-Shechen, he shares how altruism can help build a more compassionate and hopeful society.