Archives: LR Articles
Why Evan Thompson Isn’t a Buddhist
A conversation with scholar Evan Thompson about his new book "Why I Am Not A Buddhist" and why Western Buddhism could use more non-Buddhist friends.
The Simplest Meditation
In the opening editorial of our March 2020 issue, editor-in-chief Melvin McLeod looks at the perfectly simple lesson the Buddha taught.
Who Was Freda Bedi?
Freda Bedi was an early champion of women’s rights, a Gandhian revolutionary, and a major force in bringing Tibetan Buddhism to the West.
The Final Truth
She gave birth to twins, but only one survived. Kate Inglis on how, when a body dies, love is the final truth it leaves behind.
My Bully Became a Buddhist
When Eric Steuer discovered his childhood bully was now a Buddhist teacher, he asked him the question he’d always wanted to: Why did you treat me that way?
7 New and Classic Buddhist Books by and for People of Color
Can you recommend some Buddhist books by and for people of color? We answer your questions about Buddhism and meditation.
Ram Dass lives on in collaborative album with East Forest
Musician East Forest's collaborative album with the late Ram Dass encompasses his lifetime of wisdom in 14 tracks, bringing his teachings to life.
Does My Dog Have Buddhanature?
Remembering her beloved childhood pet, Andrea Miller ponders one of Zen’s most famous questions.
What Are the Four Schools of Tibetan Buddhism?
Here's a short primer on the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism and some of their key practices.
The Uneasy Dialogue between Buddhism and Feminism
Jue Liang reviews "Buddhist Feminisms and Femininities," edited by Karma Lekshe Tsomo.
Bushfires threaten Buddhist communities in Australia
Sunntaram Forest Monastery, Santi Forest Monastery, and Vejjasala Retreat Center are all currently evacuated. No injuries or major destruction have been reported.
Healthy Self or No Self?
Modern psychology encourages us to have a healthy sense of self, but Buddhism teaches that the self doesn’t even exist. Barry Magid says there’s no conflict.
Carving the Divine: Filmmaker Yujiro Seki documents the Buddhist sculptors of Japan
The new documentary film "Carving the Divine" offers a rare look at the lives and artistic process of traditional Japanese wood carvers.
Ram Dass, spiritual pioneer, dies at 88
The spiritual teacher and psychologist, Ram Dass, and author of "Be Here Now," died on December 22, 2019 in Maui, Hawaii. He was 88.
Dark Night of the Meditator
Josh Bartok gives advice on how to meditate without provoking unhealthy psychological states.
To Know Yourself is to Forget Yourself
We might think that knowing ourselves is an ego-centered thing, but by looking at ourselves, we begin to dissolve the walls that separate us from others.
Stepping in It
When Grace Schireson gets it all wrong with her socks, she learns what’s more important than the rules.
When You’re Too Busy to Meditate
When you feel too busy to meditate, Vinny Ferraro suggests reframing your idea of meditation.
Sangha Can Be the Next Buddha
Kenley Neufeld offers three ways we can rethink community and fulfill Thich Nhat Hanh’s aspiration for the Buddhist community.
More Yokes for More Folks
The Buddha told a famous story about a blind turtle and a golden yoke to illustrate how rare the chance to discover the dharma is. Let’s make it less rare, says Bri Barnett, for oppressed and marginalized people.