#Buddhist masters

[buddhabeings]

Whatever problems there are in the world, Are created by the afflictions in our own minds. A mistaken attitude is a cause for the kleshas (mental states that cloud the mind and manifest in negative karmas), Yet the pattern of our thoughts can be refined. As we have seen, the very root of samsara is the concept of self and our habit of clinging to our identification with an “ego.”

~ Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche

[livingwellnessblog]

Tantra: Tilopa’s Song of Mahamudra

Explore the profound world of Tantra and the teachings of Tilopa, an Indian Buddhist monk in the tantric Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Delve into the essence of Mahamudra, a set of spiritual practices that accelerate the path to Buddhahood.

Tantra The Supreme Understanding Tantra:  The Supreme Understanding Introduction Tilopa’s Song of Mahamudra A deep and insightful look into the underlying ideas of Tantra. Walking the road to enlightenment by embodying the full acceptance of all that is. A commentary on Tilopa’s marvelous song.    Tilopa, was an Indian Buddhist monk in the tantric Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.  He…

[journeytothewestresearch]

Buddhist Deities Exiled From the Western Heaven

My new article examines the reasons why three Buddhist deities from Ming-Qing vernacular Chinese literature are exiled from the Western Heaven.

Master Golden Cicada (Jinchan zi, 金蟬子) (a.k.a. Tripitaka, Tang Sanzang, 唐三藏) from Journey to the West (Xiyouji, 西遊記, 1592) - a Buddha disciple who is caught sleeping during the Tathagata's sermon.

Miao Jixiang (妙吉祥) from Journey to the South (Nanyouji, 南遊記, c. 1570s-1580s) - A Buddha disciple who kills a belligerent sage on the grounds of the Thunderclap Monastery.

 Great Peng, the Golden-Winged King of Illumination (Dapeng jinchi mingwang, 大鵬金翅明王) from The Complete Vernacular Biography of Yue Fei (Shuo Yue quanzhuan, 說岳全傳, 1684) - An avian dharma protector who kills a stellar-spirit for farting during the Tathagata's lecture.

The article analyzes them together and notes parallels, even with concepts from Greek philosophy.

The motif might serve as a good idea for writers wanting to create an OC with an interesting backstory. I have, for example, previously used it to suggest a fictional origin for Sun Wukong as a hot-tempered Bodhisattva (see the 06-16-23 update here).

[hanatatami]

Love at first sight (taste?)

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Wild Woman riding a Unicorn, 1475 by a German artist known as Master of the Amsterdam Cabinet

* * * *

So What Is the Take-Away Point About the Unicorn?

Everyone wants to use happiness as a fix for problems, yet happiness is its own, very big thing, and it is selling happiness short to make it a fix for problems. To be happy is to experience life not as a series of struggles but as a gift, one that has no known limit. This doesn’t mean ignoring your difficulties: it means not assuming that they are what you think they are. If you throw away everything you believe about your difficulties you will notice that many of them disappear and the rest become interesting.

When you get the hang of being more interested in life than in agreeing with your thoughts, then you will get the life you get. And you will be able to have as much happiness as you want with almost no effort whatsoever. When you stop believing your thoughts, you look around just for you, just because it is interesting to look around. Some people call that enlightenment. But you won’t call it that. You’ll be too interested in the new view. And you’ll notice that wherever you look there will be nothing but those damned unicorns.

– John Tarrant

Note: This article was first published under the title, The Paradox of Happiness, in Shambhala Sun, January 2004.

[raffaellopalandri]

Book of the Day - Why We Meditate

Today’s Book of the Day is Why We Meditate, written by Daniel Goleman and Tsoknyi Rinpoche in 2022 and published by Penguin Books. Daniel Goleman is one of the most relevant authors, psychologists, and science journalists of our age, having introduced the concept of Emotional Intelligence to the world in 1995. He was a science reporter for The New York Times, was twice nominated for the Pulitzer…

[airenyah]

now that i've turned thai drama into my bachelor thesis, the only question left is: how to turn thai drama into my master's thesis

[catsniffer420]

The Rubin Museum

[aerial-jace]

I was just given the opportunity to reaffirm my apostasy right on Good Friday and I'm relishing it.

[buddhismnow]

Morning Meditaton — Do you want to know Manjusri?

Morning Meditaton — Do you want to know Manjusri? https://wp.me/pFy3u-8l0

‘Do you want to know Manjusri? He is here right before your eyes functioning ceaselessly without change, This is the living Manjusri.’ Zen Master Rinzai Clouds above the trees. On our Twitter account, Buddhism Now @Buddhism_Now, most mornings we post a ‘morning meditation’ like the one above.  On the net, of course, it’s morning, afternoon, evening, or nighttime 😀 somewhere. Click here to…

[renegade-hierophant]

Just a chill Buddhist mantra to heal all of your ills 🙏

[buddhabeings]

The Flower Sermon: The Moment Zen Was Born ☸️

One morning, Shakyamuni Buddha gathered His disciples for a discourse, but instead of speaking, He simply held up a single flower. The disciples looked at Him, puzzled, wondering what lesson He was trying to convey. But one disciple, Mahakashyapa, looked at the flower and smiled. In that moment, Shakyamuni Buddha saw his understanding and said, “I have the Treasure of True Wisdom, and I give it to Mahakashyapa.”

This silent gesture became known as The Flower Sermon, and it was immensely important for one reason: it showed that True Wisdom can be beyond words.

Sometimes, a simple smile or a glance at a flower is enough to see Reality as it is. This is the essence of Tathata - or “Suchness” - The Truth of Things just as they are, without labels, judgments, or concepts.

In Mahakashyapa’s smile, he grasped this “Suchness.” This wisdom couldn’t be captured in words; it was something to be directly felt and experienced. That smile became the origin of Zen Buddhism, a path that teaches us to see things clearly, without clinging to ideas or theories.

Shakyamuni Buddha's Silent Message via the Flower was a Direct Transmission, heart to heart, showing that Wisdom is something we feel deeply, not something we need to say.

The Flower Sermon reminds us that Silence is the truest expression of Wisdom. Instead of searching endlessly for answers, perhaps we only need to look at the world around us, quietly and fully, to find the understanding we seek.

🙏🙏🙏

[somaiya-vidyavihar-university]

Exploring Buddhist Studies: Pursue A Fulfilling Academic Journey At Somaiya

The teachings of Buddhism offer timeless wisdom and profound insights into life, spirituality, and mindfulness. For those inspired by this ancient philosophy, pursuing a Buddhist Studies MA can be a transformative academic journey. Somaiya Vidyavihar University, one of India’s premier institutions, provides a robust platform for students to delve deep into Buddhist thought, culture, and history.

Why Choose A Master In Buddhist Studies?

A Masters in Buddhist Studies in India offers a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist philosophy, history, and its relevance in the modern world. Students explore core concepts such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and the diverse schools of Buddhist thought. The program also emphasizes research, critical analysis, and cross-cultural perspectives, making it ideal for academics, spiritual practitioners, or those pursuing careers in education, culture, and global relations.

India, the birthplace of Buddhism, provides a unique backdrop for studying this rich tradition. From ancient sites like Bodh Gaya to vibrant Buddhist communities, students gain an immersive learning experience unparalleled anywhere else.

Study Buddhism At Somaiya Vidyavihar University

Somaiya Vidyavihar University offers an enriching Buddhist Studies MA program designed to foster a deep understanding of Buddhist teachings and their practical applications in the contemporary world. This course is part of the university’s commitment to providing a diverse range of programs that blend academic rigor with cultural enrichment.

Highlights of the Programme at Somaiya:

Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers various aspects of Buddhist philosophy, art, and literature, along with courses on meditation and mindfulness practices.

Experienced Faculty: Learn from scholars and practitioners who bring knowledge and real-world insights.

Research Opportunities: Students are encouraged to engage in research projects that explore Buddhism’s historical and modern relevance.

Field Visits: The program includes visits to significant Buddhist heritage sites, offering hands-on learning experiences.

Global Recognition: Somaiya’s programs are respected globally, providing graduates with excellent academic and professional opportunities.

Why Study Buddhism?

To study Buddhism is to embark on a journey of self-discovery and intellectual growth. This discipline teaches critical thinking, compassion, and mindfulness, equipping students with tools to address life’s challenges. It also offers insights into ethics, sustainable living, and intercultural understanding, skills highly valued in today’s interconnected world.

Whether your goal is to contribute to academia, support cultural preservation, or deepen your practice, a degree in Buddhist studies provides a solid foundation.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Masters in Buddhist Studies in India can pursue diverse career paths, including:

Academia and Research: Becoming scholars or educators in religious studies, history, or philosophy.

Cultural Preservation: Working with museums, archives, or heritage organizations to conserve Buddhist art and artifacts.

Mindfulness and Therapy: Applying Buddhist principles in mental health, wellness, and corporate training programs.

Global Relations: Joining international organizations focused on cultural exchange and religious dialogue.

Conclusion

Somaiya Vidyavihar University is a beacon for those passionate about understanding and preserving Buddhist teachings. By offering a comprehensive Buddhist Studies MA, it empowers students to explore Buddhism in all its facets. Whether you aim to study Buddhism for academic pursuits or personal growth, Somaiya provides the resources, expertise, and inspiration to make your journey rewarding. Enroll today and become a part of a tradition that continues to enlighten millions across the globe.

[marioluigimarioluigi]

Massed Prayer for Florian and Juliana go to Pasio

[errantabbot]

On Teachers, Maturation, and Debt

It’s a sad fact

that so few teachers

ever come to know their reach

or to see the maturation of their work;

they give of themselves

in service of a vision

known only to hope

to trust and to need;

perhaps they too recall

coming up short

and lately getting it together

thereby fueling their resolve;

how else could such a mission

of endless sewing without harvest

ever come into being

but by gratitude by knowing and debt?

~Sunyananda

[luminouslamps1]

How to kill the ego from a Buddhist perspective? Important spiritual life lesson for all spiritual practitioners. Buddhist teaching by Master Yong Hua.

If interested, please search up '6) Vajra Sutra 2011.10.29' on Master Yong Hua's YouTube channel.