Buddhism: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
What Buddhists Believe
Religions usually are defined by their beliefs, and the religious "believe in" the doctrines they are taught. But in Buddhism, beliefs are beside the point, and doctrines are a means to an end, not the end itself.
Religions usually are defined by their beliefs, and the religious "believe in" the doctrines they are taught. But in Buddhism, beliefs are beside the point, and doctrines are a means to an end, not the end itself.
Four Noble Truths
The Buddha's first sermon after his Enlightenment centered on the Four Noble Truths, which are the foundation of Buddhism. A study of the Four Noble Truths is the first step in learning about this ancient religion.
The Buddha's first sermon after his Enlightenment centered on the Four Noble Truths, which are the foundation of Buddhism. A study of the Four Noble Truths is the first step in learning about this ancient religion.
Philosophy or Religion?
Is Buddhism a philosophy or a religion? Clarifying this point is important to understanding Buddhism.
Is Buddhism a philosophy or a religion? Clarifying this point is important to understanding Buddhism.
Taking Refuge
To become a Buddhist is to take refuge in the Three Jewels, also called the Three Treasures -- the Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha. This essay explains what "taking refuge" means to a Buddhist.
To become a Buddhist is to take refuge in the Three Jewels, also called the Three Treasures -- the Buddha, the Dharma, the Sangha. This essay explains what "taking refuge" means to a Buddhist.
Reasons to Convert?
Why I can give you no good reason to convert to Buddhism.
Why I can give you no good reason to convert to Buddhism.
The Eightfold Path
The Eightfold Path is the Buddha's prescription for relieving suffering. It is the means by which one can realize enlightenment and enter Nirvana.
The Eightfold Path is the Buddha's prescription for relieving suffering. It is the means by which one can realize enlightenment and enter Nirvana.
What Is the Self?
The Buddha taught that an individual is a combination of five aggregates, called the Five Skandhas. The skandhas are empty of intrinsic self; the self is no-self (anatman or anatta in Theravada Buddhism and shunyata in Mahayana Buddhism). These teachings are difficult to understand but essential to Buddhism.
The Buddha taught that an individual is a combination of five aggregates, called the Five Skandhas. The skandhas are empty of intrinsic self; the self is no-self (anatman or anatta in Theravada Buddhism and shunyata in Mahayana Buddhism). These teachings are difficult to understand but essential to Buddhism.
Practice of Buddhism
Buddhists often speak of Buddhism as a practice rather than a faith. What exactly is Buddhist practice?
Buddhists often speak of Buddhism as a practice rather than a faith. What exactly is Buddhist practice?
Four Dharma Seals
Buddhism is distinguished by four characteristics, called the Four Dharma Seals. Any religion or philosophy that contains these four seals is Buddhist, whether it calls itself "Buddhist" or not. By the same token, a "Buddhism" that contradicts any of the Four Seals is not Buddhism, whether it calls itself that or not.
Buddhism is distinguished by four characteristics, called the Four Dharma Seals. Any religion or philosophy that contains these four seals is Buddhist, whether it calls itself "Buddhist" or not. By the same token, a "Buddhism" that contradicts any of the Four Seals is not Buddhism, whether it calls itself that or not.
Atheism and Buddhism
If atheism is the absence of belief in gods, then many Buddhists are atheists. Why then do Buddhists pray and bow to Buddha figures on altars?
If atheism is the absence of belief in gods, then many Buddhists are atheists. Why then do Buddhists pray and bow to Buddha figures on altars?
Ritual and Buddhism
Can there be Buddhism without the rituals? Maybe, but the rituals do have a purpose.
Can there be Buddhism without the rituals? Maybe, but the rituals do have a purpose.
Finding Your Teacher
Why do Buddhists need teachers? How do you find a teacher? How can you tell real Buddhist teachers from frauds? Here are some basic guidelines to help you find the right teacher for you.
Why do Buddhists need teachers? How do you find a teacher? How can you tell real Buddhist teachers from frauds? Here are some basic guidelines to help you find the right teacher for you.
Karma and Rebirth
The law of karma is a law of cause and effect, or an understanding that every deed produces fruit. The fruits of karma affect our lives and cause rebirth.
The law of karma is a law of cause and effect, or an understanding that every deed produces fruit. The fruits of karma affect our lives and cause rebirth.
Avalokiteshvara
Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva is beloved to Mahayana Buddhists as the embodiment of infinite compassion.
Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva is beloved to Mahayana Buddhists as the embodiment of infinite compassion.
Buddhism and Vegetarianism
The historical Buddha and his disciples were not vegetarians. Why then did vegetarianism come to be associated with Buddhism?
The historical Buddha and his disciples were not vegetarians. Why then did vegetarianism come to be associated with Buddhism?
Life of the Buddha
This simple account of the historic Buddha's life covers his early life, the Four Passing Sights, the Renunciation, the Quest, his Enlightenment, and his later life as a teacher.
This simple account of the historic Buddha's life covers his early life, the Four Passing Sights, the Renunciation, the Quest, his Enlightenment, and his later life as a teacher.
Six Realms of Existence
The Six Realms are an allegorical description of conditioned existence, or samsara, into which beings are reborn. The nature and conditions of one's existence is determined by karma. Certainly some realms seem more desirable than others -- heaven sounds preferable to hell -- but all are dukkha, meaning they are temporary and imperfect.
The Six Realms are an allegorical description of conditioned existence, or samsara, into which beings are reborn. The nature and conditions of one's existence is determined by karma. Certainly some realms seem more desirable than others -- heaven sounds preferable to hell -- but all are dukkha, meaning they are temporary and imperfect.
Mahayana Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism contains such a wide range of doctrines and practices that few blanket statements can cover it. There are a few basic teachings that distinguish all forms of Mahayana, however. Here Mahayana and Theravada are compared to make these distinctions clear.
Mahayana Buddhism contains such a wide range of doctrines and practices that few blanket statements can cover it. There are a few basic teachings that distinguish all forms of Mahayana, however. Here Mahayana and Theravada are compared to make these distinctions clear.
Theravada Buddhism
The distinctive practices and teachings of Theravada, the oldest school of Buddhism.
The distinctive practices and teachings of Theravada, the oldest school of Buddhism.
Bhavana
All Buddhist meditation practices are forms of bhavana. Here is a basic explanation of bhavana and how it is practiced in Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
All Buddhist meditation practices are forms of bhavana. Here is a basic explanation of bhavana and how it is practiced in Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism.
Origins of the Tripitaka
The earliest written scriptures of Buddhism are collected in the Tripitaka, also called the Pali Canon. What is in the Tripitaka, and where did these texts come from?
The earliest written scriptures of Buddhism are collected in the Tripitaka, also called the Pali Canon. What is in the Tripitaka, and where did these texts come from?
Anger and Buddhism
Anger is a poison and an obstacle to enlightenment, the Buddha said. Yet we all get angry. What does Buddhism teach about dealing with anger?
Anger is a poison and an obstacle to enlightenment, the Buddha said. Yet we all get angry. What does Buddhism teach about dealing with anger?
Buddhism and Evil
This essay explores common conceptualizations of evil and compares them to Buddhist teachings on evil. Part One explains why Buddhism rejects most common definitions of "evil."
This essay explores common conceptualizations of evil and compares them to Buddhist teachings on evil. Part One explains why Buddhism rejects most common definitions of "evil."
The Precepts
Although some schools add more precepts, these five precepts -- sometimes called the Grave Precepts -- are recognized by all schools of Buddhism as the basis of Buddhist morality.
Although some schools add more precepts, these five precepts -- sometimes called the Grave Precepts -- are recognized by all schools of Buddhism as the basis of Buddhist morality.
Three Marks of Existence
The three characteristics -- impermanence, suffering and egolessness -- mark all compounded things. The Three Marks are also sometimes called the Three
The three characteristics -- impermanence, suffering and egolessness -- mark all compounded things. The Three Marks are also sometimes called the Three
Tibetan Buddhist History
This is a brief history of Tibetan Buddhism from in 641 CE, when King Songtsen Gampo unified Tibet and married two Buddhist princesses, to 1642, when the 5th Dalai Lama became ruler of Tibet.
This is a brief history of Tibetan Buddhism from in 641 CE, when King Songtsen Gampo unified Tibet and married two Buddhist princesses, to 1642, when the 5th Dalai Lama became ruler of Tibet.
What's a Buddha?
The Buddha is pictured in many ways, and the word Buddha is used to mean many things. Just who or what is a Buddha?
The Buddha is pictured in many ways, and the word Buddha is used to mean many things. Just who or what is a Buddha?
Buddhist Retreats
Retreats are a great way to initiate a personal exploration of Buddhism, and of yourself. Here is advice about how to find authentic Buddhist retreats and what to expect when you participate in one.
Retreats are a great way to initiate a personal exploration of Buddhism, and of yourself. Here is advice about how to find authentic Buddhist retreats and what to expect when you participate in one.
Tripitaka
The Tripitaka (Sanskrit, "three baskets") is the earliest canon of Buddhist scripture. It is also called the "Pali Canon."
The Tripitaka (Sanskrit, "three baskets") is the earliest canon of Buddhist scripture. It is also called the "Pali Canon."
Major Bodhisattvas
Bodhisattvas work to bring all beings to enlightenment. Countless transcendent bodhisattvas are found in Buddhist art and literature, but these five are the most important.
Bodhisattvas work to bring all beings to enlightenment. Countless transcendent bodhisattvas are found in Buddhist art and literature, but these five are the most important.
Karma for Buddhists 101
Understanding the laws of karma is essential to understanding Buddhism. Yet karma is mostly misunderstood by Westerners. This essay briefly explains the Buddhist view of karma.
Understanding the laws of karma is essential to understanding Buddhism. Yet karma is mostly misunderstood by Westerners. This essay briefly explains the Buddhist view of karma.
Mara, Lord of Death
The demon Mara plays a role in many stories of the Buddha and his monks, and in particular the story of the Buddha's enlightenment. This article discusses Mara's origins and what he represents in Buddhism.
The demon Mara plays a role in many stories of the Buddha and his monks, and in particular the story of the Buddha's enlightenment. This article discusses Mara's origins and what he represents in Buddhism.
Zen 101
This is a bare-bones introduction to Zen Buddhism for those who don't know Zen from spinach. It includes a brief history of the school and the Zen definition of Zen.
This is a bare-bones introduction to Zen Buddhism for those who don't know Zen from spinach. It includes a brief history of the school and the Zen definition of Zen.
Nirvana
What is Nirvana? The Buddha told his monks that Nirvana cannot be imagined, and so there is no point speculating what it is like. Even so, it is a word that Buddhists use, so it requires some definition. Here is an explanation of Nirvana -- what it is, and what it is not.
What is Nirvana? The Buddha told his monks that Nirvana cannot be imagined, and so there is no point speculating what it is like. Even so, it is a word that Buddhists use, so it requires some definition. Here is an explanation of Nirvana -- what it is, and what it is not.
Buddhist Holidays 2008
Here is a list of major Buddhist holidays for calendar year 2008. The dates for many Buddhist holidays are determined by the phase of the moon rather than by calendar, and not all schools of Buddhism observe holidays on the same day.
Here is a list of major Buddhist holidays for calendar year 2008. The dates for many Buddhist holidays are determined by the phase of the moon rather than by calendar, and not all schools of Buddhism observe holidays on the same day.
Bardo Thodol
The Bardo Thodol -- "Liberation Through Hearing in the Intermediate State," known commonly as "The Tibetan Book of the Dead" -- is best known as a guide through the intermediate state, or bardo, between death and rebirth. However, the teachings in the book can be read and appreciated on many different, subtle levels.
The Bardo Thodol -- "Liberation Through Hearing in the Intermediate State," known commonly as "The Tibetan Book of the Dead" -- is best known as a guide through the intermediate state, or bardo, between death and rebirth. However, the teachings in the book can be read and appreciated on many different, subtle levels.
Mahayana Sutras
The name sutra (Sanskrit for "thread") in Buddhism originally was given only to the sermons of the historical Buddha, as recognized by the First Buddhist Council (ca. 460 BCE). The works listed below probably were written between 100 BCE and 300 CE by unknown authors. Whatever their origin, they are considered to be sutras in Mahayana Buddhism.
The name sutra (Sanskrit for "thread") in Buddhism originally was given only to the sermons of the historical Buddha, as recognized by the First Buddhist Council (ca. 460 BCE). The works listed below probably were written between 100 BCE and 300 CE by unknown authors. Whatever their origin, they are considered to be sutras in Mahayana Buddhism.
Enlightenment and Nirvana
The Buddha taught that we can put an end to suffering and escape the cycles of life and death. This cessation of suffering is called "enlightenment" (bodhi, "awakened"). The enlightened being exists in a state called Nirvana.
The Buddha taught that we can put an end to suffering and escape the cycles of life and death. This cessation of suffering is called "enlightenment" (bodhi, "awakened"). The enlightened being exists in a state called Nirvana.
What's a Bodhisattva?
Bodhisattvas are idealized in Mahayana art and literature, and they are also ordinary people. They exemplify compassion and wisdom, and they vow to help all beings realize enlightenment and enter Nirvana.
Bodhisattvas are idealized in Mahayana art and literature, and they are also ordinary people. They exemplify compassion and wisdom, and they vow to help all beings realize enlightenment and enter Nirvana.
Origins of Theravada
Theravada considers itself to be the school closest to the original form of Buddhism. It emphasizes individual enlightenment and critical reasoning.
Theravada considers itself to be the school closest to the original form of Buddhism. It emphasizes individual enlightenment and critical reasoning.
Dharmapalas
They're they're wrathful, they're terrifying, and they're the good guys. Dharmapalas are fearsome creatures of Vajrayana Buddhism who aid and protect Buddhists.
They're they're wrathful, they're terrifying, and they're the good guys. Dharmapalas are fearsome creatures of Vajrayana Buddhism who aid and protect Buddhists.
Birth of the Buddha
The story of the Buddha's birth is rich with mythical symbolism.
The story of the Buddha's birth is rich with mythical symbolism.
First Buddhist Women
The historical Buddha’s most famous statements on women came about when his stepmother and aunt, Maha Pajapati Gotami, asked to join the Sangha and become a nun. The Buddha initially refused her request. Eventually he relented, but in doing so he made conditions and a prediction that remain controversial to this day.
The historical Buddha’s most famous statements on women came about when his stepmother and aunt, Maha Pajapati Gotami, asked to join the Sangha and become a nun. The Buddha initially refused her request. Eventually he relented, but in doing so he made conditions and a prediction that remain controversial to this day.
The 17th Karmapa
Ogyen Trinley Dorje (b. 1985), the reincarnated Gyalwang Karmapa, is a soft-spoken and studious young man surrounded by global controversy.
Ogyen Trinley Dorje (b. 1985), the reincarnated Gyalwang Karmapa, is a soft-spoken and studious young man surrounded by global controversy.
Pure Land Buddhism
Pure Land grew from a small group of Chinese monks to become the most popular school of Buddhism in China and Japan.
Pure Land grew from a small group of Chinese monks to become the most popular school of Buddhism in China and Japan.
Introduction to Buddhism
There's more to Buddhism than shaving one's head, wearing orange robes and being blissful. Here is a guide to the basic basics for those who don't know nothin' about Buddhism.
There's more to Buddhism than shaving one's head, wearing orange robes and being blissful. Here is a guide to the basic basics for those who don't know nothin' about Buddhism.
Beginner Zen Books
These are good beginner-level books for people who want to learn about Zen Buddhism. Although Zen itself is not something that can be learned from books, these might tell you if Zen is something you want to explore further.
These are good beginner-level books for people who want to learn about Zen Buddhism. Although Zen itself is not something that can be learned from books, these might tell you if Zen is something you want to explore further.
Anatman
No-self; the central Buddhist teaching that individual identity is ephemeral.
No-self; the central Buddhist teaching that individual identity is ephemeral.
Turmoil in Tibet
After nearly 50 years of Chinese rule, the people of Tibet continue to protest. China claims it has "liberated" the Tibetans from feudalism and ignorance and has modernized their country. Why aren't the Tibetans grateful?
After nearly 50 years of Chinese rule, the people of Tibet continue to protest. China claims it has "liberated" the Tibetans from feudalism and ignorance and has modernized their country. Why aren't the Tibetans grateful?
Chinese Police March Past Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet
Chinese policemen near Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet, during the Olympic torch relay, June 21, 2008.
Chinese policemen near Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet, during the Olympic torch relay, June 21, 2008.
A Pilgrim Near Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet
A Buddhist pilgrim photographed on June 20, 2008. Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Lama, is in the background.
A Buddhist pilgrim photographed on June 20, 2008. Potala Palace, former home of the Dalai Lama, is in the background.
Boots of Chinese Policemen, Lhasa, Tibet
Chinese policemen guard a road during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet. Chinese authorities tightened security in Lhasa for the relay.
Chinese policemen guard a road during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet. Chinese authorities tightened security in Lhasa for the relay.
Bhava Chakra
The Bhava Chakra, or Wheel of Life, is a common illustration in Tibetan Buddhism of the cycle of existence, also called the Six Realms of Existence or Rebirth.
The Bhava Chakra, or Wheel of Life, is a common illustration in Tibetan Buddhism of the cycle of existence, also called the Six Realms of Existence or Rebirth.
Origins of Mahayana
Mahayana's precise origins are a mystery, but it emerged as a separate school of Buddhism in about the 1st century BCE. Today it is the dominant form of Buddhism in China, Tibet, Japan and Korea.
Mahayana's precise origins are a mystery, but it emerged as a separate school of Buddhism in about the 1st century BCE. Today it is the dominant form of Buddhism in China, Tibet, Japan and Korea.
Schools of Tibetan Buddhism
Here is an introduction to the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism with links to more information about each.
Here is an introduction to the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism with links to more information about each.
A Chinese Policeman in Lhasa, Tibet
A Chinese policeman stops photos from being taken during the ending ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet.
A Chinese policeman stops photos from being taken during the ending ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games torch relay on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet.
Zen and Me
This is about Zen and me (or should I say, not-me?). If you don't mind some rambling personal reflections, then welcome to my world. Kick off your shoes and take a seat.
This is about Zen and me (or should I say, not-me?). If you don't mind some rambling personal reflections, then welcome to my world. Kick off your shoes and take a seat.
Dharma
In Buddhism, dharma most commonly is used to refer to the teachings of the Buddha. But the word has a great many other significant meanings.
In Buddhism, dharma most commonly is used to refer to the teachings of the Buddha. But the word has a great many other significant meanings.
Tibetan Buddhist Worshipers at Jokhang Temple, June 21, 2008
Tibetan worshipers pray outside the Jokhang Temple on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet, China.
Tibetan worshipers pray outside the Jokhang Temple on June 21, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet, China.
Aung San Suu Kyi
Nobel Peace Prize laureate, political prisoner, and an icon of the ideals of democracy and the compassion of Buddhism -- this is Aung San Suu Kyi. She has dedicated her life to liberating the people of Burma (Myanmar) from political oppression.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate, political prisoner, and an icon of the ideals of democracy and the compassion of Buddhism -- this is Aung San Suu Kyi. She has dedicated her life to liberating the people of Burma (Myanmar) from political oppression.
Shunyata
According to the Mahayana Buddhist teaching of [i]shunyata[/i] -- emptiness or void -- all beings and phenomena are empty of independent, permanent essence.
According to the Mahayana Buddhist teaching of [i]shunyata[/i] -- emptiness or void -- all beings and phenomena are empty of independent, permanent essence.
Karma
Karma means "intentional action" and refers to the universal law of cause and effect.
Karma means "intentional action" and refers to the universal law of cause and effect.
The Metta Sutta
The Metta Sutta, or Sutra of Loving Kindness, is one of the most beloved of all Buddhist texts. Here is an explanation of the sutta and links to online English translations.
The Metta Sutta, or Sutra of Loving Kindness, is one of the most beloved of all Buddhist texts. Here is an explanation of the sutta and links to online English translations.
Buddha
The Sanskrit word [i]Buddha[/i] means "awakened one." Very basically, a buddha is one who has realized enlightenment and been released from the cycle of death and rebirth. However, the word is used to mean many other things.
The Sanskrit word [i]Buddha[/i] means "awakened one." Very basically, a buddha is one who has realized enlightenment and been released from the cycle of death and rebirth. However, the word is used to mean many other things.
Samsara
The Sanskrit word [i]samsara[/i] means "journeying." Samsara is often explained as the cycle of death and rebirth created by karma.
The Sanskrit word [i]samsara[/i] means "journeying." Samsara is often explained as the cycle of death and rebirth created by karma.
The Future of Tibet: A Mother and Child at Sera Monastery, Lhasa
A Tibetan worshiper holding her child prays at the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet, China.
A Tibetan worshiper holding her child prays at the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet, China.
Koan
In Zen Buddhism, koans are small presentations of the nature of ultimate reality, usually presented as a paradox.
In Zen Buddhism, koans are small presentations of the nature of ultimate reality, usually presented as a paradox.
Dalai Lama, God-King?
His Holiness the Dalai Lama is often called a "God-King" by Western media. This article examines what that means and what role the Dalai Lama plays in Tibetan Buddhism and in Tibetan history.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama is often called a "God-King" by Western media. This article examines what that means and what role the Dalai Lama plays in Tibetan Buddhism and in Tibetan history.
Inside Sera Monastery, Lhasa, Tibet
A monk opens a door for journalists in Sera Monastery, Tibet, on June 22, 2008.
A monk opens a door for journalists in Sera Monastery, Tibet, on June 22, 2008.
Monks Waiting for a Visit From Foreign Journalists, Sera Monastery, June 22, 2008
Two of of the few monks still in residence in Sera Monastery wait for the arrival of foreign journalists on June 22, 2008.
Two of of the few monks still in residence in Sera Monastery wait for the arrival of foreign journalists on June 22, 2008.
Sangha
The sangha is the community of Buddhists.
The sangha is the community of Buddhists.
Makha Bucha Day
Makha Bucha Day, also called Sangtha Day, is a Buddhist holiday held in Thailand on the full moon of the third lunar month, which is usually the end of February or early March.
Makha Bucha Day, also called Sangtha Day, is a Buddhist holiday held in Thailand on the full moon of the third lunar month, which is usually the end of February or early March.
Chinese Flag, Potala Palace, Lhasa, Tibet
A man takes down a Chinese flag from top of the wall around Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.
A man takes down a Chinese flag from top of the wall around Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet.
Buddhist Monk of Sera Monastery, Lhasa, Tibet.
A monk looks at foreign journalists visiting the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet. On this day most of the monastery's 550 monks were missing.
A monk looks at foreign journalists visiting the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet. On this day most of the monastery's 550 monks were missing.
Dukkha
The Pali word [i]dukkha[/i] most often is translated into English as "suffering." But its meaning to Buddhism is much broader than that.
The Pali word [i]dukkha[/i] most often is translated into English as "suffering." But its meaning to Buddhism is much broader than that.
Bodhidharma
Bodhidharma (ca. 470-543) was an Indian monk credited with founding Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism.
Bodhidharma (ca. 470-543) was an Indian monk credited with founding Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism.
Police Guard the Norbulingka, Lhasa, Tibet
Norbulingka was the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. It is guarded by police during the Olympic torch relay in Lhasa, June 21, 2008.
Norbulingka was the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. It is guarded by police during the Olympic torch relay in Lhasa, June 21, 2008.
Nirvana Day
Nirvana Day -- Parinirvana -- is a Mahayana Buddhist observation of the death and attainment of Nirvana of the historical Buddha.
Nirvana Day -- Parinirvana -- is a Mahayana Buddhist observation of the death and attainment of Nirvana of the historical Buddha.
Nagarjuna
Nagarjuna was a patriarch of Mahayana Buddhism and the founder of the Madhyamika school. Although little is known about his life, he is well remembered in legend.
Nagarjuna was a patriarch of Mahayana Buddhism and the founder of the Madhyamika school. Although little is known about his life, he is well remembered in legend.
Madhyamika
Madhyamika was an early school of Mahayana Buddhism. Madhyamika was primarily concerned with the nature of existence and the doctrine of shunyata, "emptiness," and it remains profoundly influential to Zen and Tibetan Buddhism.
Madhyamika was an early school of Mahayana Buddhism. Madhyamika was primarily concerned with the nature of existence and the doctrine of shunyata, "emptiness," and it remains profoundly influential to Zen and Tibetan Buddhism.
Dakini
In Vajrayana Buddhism, a [i]dakini[/i] is the energy of nondual awareness manifested as a naked, dancing, wrathful female deity.
In Vajrayana Buddhism, a [i]dakini[/i] is the energy of nondual awareness manifested as a naked, dancing, wrathful female deity.
Basic Buddhist Teachings
The primary teachings shared by all schools of Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and the Precepts. Within these teachings are woven the Buddhist doctrines of suffering, the nature of the self, ethics, karma, rebirth, enlightenment and Nirvana.
The primary teachings shared by all schools of Buddhism are the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and the Precepts. Within these teachings are woven the Buddhist doctrines of suffering, the nature of the self, ethics, karma, rebirth, enlightenment and Nirvana.
A Tibetan Worshiper at Sera Monastery
A Tibetan worshiper at the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet.
A Tibetan worshiper at the Sera monastery on June 22, 2008 in Lhasa, Tibet.
Kalama Sutta
In the Kalama Sutta, the Buddha challenges us to judge the truth of teachings for ourselves. He assures us that it is proper to have doubts and questions and provides criteria we can apply in our own free inquiry.
In the Kalama Sutta, the Buddha challenges us to judge the truth of teachings for ourselves. He assures us that it is proper to have doubts and questions and provides criteria we can apply in our own free inquiry.
Sesshin
In Zen Buddhism, a [i]sesshin[/i] is an intensive meditation retreat.
In Zen Buddhism, a [i]sesshin[/i] is an intensive meditation retreat.
Skandha
In Buddhism, the Five Skandhas are aggregates of mental and physical characteristics that come together to create an individual. Personality and ego are creations of the skandhas.
In Buddhism, the Five Skandhas are aggregates of mental and physical characteristics that come together to create an individual. Personality and ego are creations of the skandhas.
Zendo
A zendo is the main meditation hall in a Zen monastery or temple.
A zendo is the main meditation hall in a Zen monastery or temple.
Arhat
In Theravada Buddhism, an Arhat is an individual who has realized enlightenment and may enter Nirvana.
In Theravada Buddhism, an Arhat is an individual who has realized enlightenment and may enter Nirvana.
Metta
Metta -- loving kindness -- is one of the Four Perfect Virtues cultivated by Buddhist practice.
Metta -- loving kindness -- is one of the Four Perfect Virtues cultivated by Buddhist practice.
Buddha's Birthday
Buddha’s birthday, often called Vesak or Visakha Puja, is celebrated on different dates by various schools of Buddhism. Whatever the date, it is a joyous holiday featuring parades, hanging lanterns, and the sharing of food and flowers.
Buddha’s birthday, often called Vesak or Visakha Puja, is celebrated on different dates by various schools of Buddhism. Whatever the date, it is a joyous holiday featuring parades, hanging lanterns, and the sharing of food and flowers.
Anapanasati
Anapanasati (Pali) is a meditation practice of observing or counting the breath to develop concentration and mindfulness.
Anapanasati (Pali) is a meditation practice of observing or counting the breath to develop concentration and mindfulness.
Magha Puja Day
Magha Puja Day is a day to show appreciation Buddhist monastics for their dedication and practice.
Magha Puja Day is a day to show appreciation Buddhist monastics for their dedication and practice.
Sutra
The name sutra (Sanskrit for "thread") in Buddhism originally was given only to the sermons of the historical Buddha. Some later works are also considered to be sutras by the Mahayana school, however.
The name sutra (Sanskrit for "thread") in Buddhism originally was given only to the sermons of the historical Buddha. Some later works are also considered to be sutras by the Mahayana school, however.
Bodhisattva
In Mahayana Buddhism, a [i]bodhisattva[/i] is one who works for the enlightenment of others and who vows not to enter Nirvana until all other beings are enlightened.
In Mahayana Buddhism, a [i]bodhisattva[/i] is one who works for the enlightenment of others and who vows not to enter Nirvana until all other beings are enlightened.
Miaoxin
Miaoxin (840-895), a Chinese Ch'an nun, was a student of Yangshan Huiji whose understanding of dharma has been remembered through the centuries.
Miaoxin (840-895), a Chinese Ch'an nun, was a student of Yangshan Huiji whose understanding of dharma has been remembered through the centuries.
Buddhism - Profiles
An index of Profiles for the Buddhism guide site.
An index of Profiles for the Buddhism guide site.
Buddhism - Articles
An index of Articles for the Buddhism guide site.
An index of Articles for the Buddhism guide site.
Chakra
[i]Chakras[/i] are energy centers of the human body that correspond to psychological and physical properties.
[i]Chakras[/i] are energy centers of the human body that correspond to psychological and physical properties.
Chitta
[i]Chitta[/i], often simply translated "heart-mind," has several meanings having to do with the mind and consciousness.
[i]Chitta[/i], often simply translated "heart-mind," has several meanings having to do with the mind and consciousness.
Jizo Bosatsu
Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) is one of the most beloved figures of Japanese Buddhism. He is known in particular as the protector of deceased children.
Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) is one of the most beloved figures of Japanese Buddhism. He is known in particular as the protector of deceased children.
Trikaya
The Mahayana doctrine of the [i]Trikaya[/i] says that each Buddha has three bodies, which are the [i]dharmakaya[/i], the [i]sambogakaya[/i] and the [i]nirmanakaya[/i]. Very simply, dharmakaya is the body of absolute truth, sambogakaya is the body that experiences the bliss of enlightenment, and nirmanakaya is the body that manifests in the world.
The Mahayana doctrine of the [i]Trikaya[/i] says that each Buddha has three bodies, which are the [i]dharmakaya[/i], the [i]sambogakaya[/i] and the [i]nirmanakaya[/i]. Very simply, dharmakaya is the body of absolute truth, sambogakaya is the body that experiences the bliss of enlightenment, and nirmanakaya is the body that manifests in the world.
"Iron Grindstone" Liu
Liu Tiemo was such a skilled debater she was called "Iron Grindstone." This 9th-century Chinese peasant woman became a renowned Zen master.
Liu Tiemo was such a skilled debater she was called "Iron Grindstone." This 9th-century Chinese peasant woman became a renowned Zen master.
Abhidharma-pitaka
Abhidharma-pitaka is the third part of the earliest Buddhist writings, the Tripitaka.
Abhidharma-pitaka is the third part of the earliest Buddhist writings, the Tripitaka.
Bodhichitta
Bodhichitta means "awakened heart-mind." It is the compassionate wish to realize enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
Bodhichitta means "awakened heart-mind." It is the compassionate wish to realize enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.
Bodhi
The Sanskrit word [i]bodhi[/i] means "awakened." This word roughly correlates to "enlightened" in English.
The Sanskrit word [i]bodhi[/i] means "awakened." This word roughly correlates to "enlightened" in English.