#enlightening monasteries in thailand

[sspacegodd]

[talonabraxas]

Buddhism Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism who later became known as “the Buddha,” lived during the 5th century B.C.

Gautama was born into a wealthy family as a prince in present-day Nepal. Although he had an easy life, Gautama was moved by suffering in the world.

He decided to give up his lavish lifestyle and endure poverty. For nearly six years, he undertook fasting and other austerities, but these techniques proved ineffectual and he abandoned them. He eventually promoted the idea of the “Middle Way,” which means existing between two extremes. Thus, he sought a life without social indulgences but also without deprivation.

After regaining his strength, he seated himself under a Bodhi tree in west-central India and promised not to rise until he had attained the supreme enlightenment. After fighting off Mara, an evil spirit who tempted him with worldly comforts and desires, Siddhartha reached enlightenment, becoming a Buddha at the age of 35. He spent the rest of his life teaching others about how to achieve this spiritual state.

When Gautama passed away around 483 B.C., his followers began to organize a religious movement. Buddha’s teachings became the foundation for what would develop into Buddhism.

In the 3rd century B.C., Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan Indian emperor, made Buddhism the state religion of India. Buddhist monasteries were built, and missionary work was encouraged.

Over the next few centuries, Buddhism began to spread beyond India. The thoughts and philosophies of Buddhists became diverse, with some followers interpreting ideas differently than others.

In the sixth century, the Huns invaded India and destroyed hundreds of Buddhist monasteries, but the intruders were eventually driven out of the country.

Islam began to spread quickly in the region during the Middle Ages, forcing Buddhism into the background. Nonetheless, Buddhism eventually spread to Central and Southeast Asia, China, Korea, Japan and, in the 20th century, to the West.

Buddhism Beliefs and Practices

Some key Buddhism beliefs include: Followers of Buddhism don’t acknowledge a supreme god or deity. They instead focus on achieving enlightenment—a state of inner peace and wisdom. When followers reach this spiritual echelon, they’re said to have experienced nirvana.

The religion’s founder, Buddha, is considered an extraordinary being, but not a god. The word Buddha means “enlightened.”

The path to enlightenment is attained by utilizing morality, meditation and wisdom. Buddhists often meditate because they believe it helps awaken truth.

There are many philosophies and interpretations within Buddhism, making it a tolerant and evolving religion.

Some scholars don’t recognize Buddhism as an organized religion, but rather, a “way of life” or a “spiritual tradition.”

Buddhism encourages its people to avoid self-indulgence but also self-denial.

Buddha’s most important teachings, known as The Four Noble Truths, are essential to understanding the religion.

Buddhists embrace the concepts of karma (the law of cause and effect) and reincarnation (the continuous cycle of rebirth).

Followers of Buddhism can worship in temples or in their own homes.

Buddhist monks, or bhikkhus, follow a strict code of conduct, which includes celibacy.

There is no single Buddhist symbol, but a number of images have evolved that represent Buddhist beliefs, including the lotus flower, the eight-spoked dharma wheel, the Bodhi tree and the swastika (an ancient symbol whose name means “well-being” or “good fortune” in Sanskrit).

Types of Buddhism Today, many forms of Buddhism exist around the world. The three main types that represent specific geographical areas include:

Theravada Buddhism: Prevalent in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos and Burma

Mahayana Buddhism: Prevalent in China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Vietnam

Tibetan Buddhism: Prevalent in Tibet, Nepal, Mongolia, Bhutan, and parts of Russia and northern India

Zen Buddhism is a form of Mahayana Buddhism that’s practiced in many of the same areas. It emphasizes simplicity and meditation—the word “zen” means meditation—in lieu of religious scripture, ceremonies or doctrines.

Nirvana Buddhism is closely related to Theravada Buddhism, but the concept of nirvana is also central to many paths of Buddhism. The term nirvana means “blowing out,” as a candle is blown out, thus ending all attachment and desire to achieve a state of pure enlightenment.

Each of these types reveres certain texts and has slightly different interpretations of Buddha’s teachings.

Some forms of Buddhism incorporate ideas of other religions and philosophies, such as Taoism and Bon.

Dharma Buddha’s teachings are known as “dharma.” He taught that wisdom, kindness, patience, generosity and compassion were important virtues.

Specifically, all Buddhists live by five moral precepts, which prohibit:

Killing living things Taking what is not given Sexual misconduct Lying Using drugs or alcohol

Four Noble Truths The Four Noble Truths, which Buddha taught, are: The truth of suffering (dukkha) The truth of the cause of suffering (samudaya) The truth of the end of suffering (nirhodha) The truth of the path that frees us from suffering (magga)

Collectively, these principles explain why humans hurt and how to overcome suffering.

Eightfold Path The Buddha taught his followers that the end of suffering, as described in the fourth Noble Truths, could be achieved by following an Eightfold Path.

In no particular order, the Eightfold Path of Buddhism teaches the following ideals for ethical conduct, mental disciple and achieving wisdom:

Right understanding (Samma ditthi) Right thought (Samma sankappa) Right speech (Samma vaca) Right action (Samma kammanta) Right livelihood (Samma ajiva) Right effort (Samma vayama) Right mindfulness (Samma sati) Right concentration (Samma samadhi)

Buddha by Talon Abraxas

[tc-pp-id]

Reason & History of celebration

New Year’s Day Thailand use both Western year and traditional Thai year, which is 43 years ahead of its Western equivalent

Children’s Day This day is use to recognise the development that children have made and will make to the future of the country. These days it's all about children having fun and parents being grateful for the part they play in bonding families and enriching lives.

Teachers’ Day Thailand hold a belief that teachers are some of society's most valuable contributors to shape the children, who will be the future of the country. Thai people believe teachers deserve to be recognized and appreciated for their dedication

Chinese Lunar New Year 11-14% of Thailand's population are considered ethnic Chinese

Valentine

Makha Bucha Day ”to mark a significant gathering where Lord Buddha led his teaching upon 1,250 of his first disciples” is an explanation from pattaya.holidayinn.com https://shorturl.at/bpyGZ

National Thai Elephant Day  promotes awareness about protecting and conserving the Thai elephant population and its habitats.

National Muay Thai Day The  fighting style is thought to have been used by soldiers and also by locals protecting their lands. Long before it was a sport, Muay Thai was an important survival tool.

Chakri Day This day is for citizens to honor the royal family and celebrate their contributions to the country

Thai New Year Songkran was the official New Year until 1888, when it was switched to a fixed date of 1 April. Then in 1940, this date was shifted to 1 January. The traditional Thai New Year Songkran was transformed into a national holiday.

Labour Day  This holiday has roots in the labour union movement and in the struggle for workers rights internationally

Coronation Day The day is use to demonstrates the stability and unity of the people as the Nation

Bung Ban Fai Rocket Festival Fertility rituals which were held to celebrate the coming of the monsoon season, which rain for the first few month 

Visakha Bucha Day  marking the birth, enlightenment and death of the Lord Buddha

Phi Ta Khon Ghost Festival   This day is believe that dead would come back to life

Khao Phansa  (Start of ‘Buddhist Lent’) Mark the start of the three-month period during the rainy season when monks are required to remain in a particular place such as a monastery or temple grounds. There, they will meditate, pray, study, and teach other young monks.

Asahna Bucha Day traditionally a popular day for young Thai men to enter the monkhood

Mother’s Day Commemorate the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit.

Por Tor Hungry Ghost Festival To pay respect to the dead.

Vegetarian Festival Those who participate would turn vegan for nine days. The local Chinese community believe that abstinence from meat and other negative stimulants will lead to good health and peace of mind.

Thai National Flag Day To commemorate the day the tricolor flag was issued as the current national flag by King Rama VI Fun fact: Thai flag used to be white elephant face the left with red background, but the flag is often place in the wrong direction, so the King Rama VI notice the flaw in the flag change it to tri color representing: national, religion and king as seen today

King Bhumibol Adulyadej Memorial Day King Bhumibol Adulyadej or Rama IX is a beloved king in Thailand and was praised for his handwork to improve the quality of life for every citizen in Thailand. He would personally travel to the rural or country side area to see the quality of peoples’ live in those area.

Awk Phansa (End of ‘Buddhist Lent’)

Chulalongkorn Day Celebrates the life and work of King Chulalongkorn, also known as Rama V, who ruled Thailand for 42 years

Sat Thai Festival Honoring spirits of the season and dead relatives. Rites and ceremonies vary among different communities. The ceremony is sometimes referred to by locals as “sending off grandparents into the next life”, and is an activity that boosts community unity. Context: Thailand are mostly Buddhism, which believe that everything would be rebirth as one form or another such as animal could be rebirth as a human.

Loy Krathong Paid respects to the water spirits 

Yi Peng Lantern Festival   a way to release negative energy and wish for good luck and good fortune in the coming year.

Father’s Day Commemorate the birthday of King Rama IX. 

Constitution Day commemorates Thailand's adoption of a constitutional monarchy in 1932

Christmas Day Over 90% of the Thai population are Buddhist. Buddhism is tolerant of all other religions, including Christianity, and this religious tolerance is part of the reason why a major Christian festival such as Christmas can also be enjoyed by Buddhists in Thailand.

[tinytudor]

Becoming a Buddhist Monk in Thailand This video takes you on a journey through the process of answering the calling to become a monk in Thailand. In this particular case, we will be witnessing my brother-in-law's journey as he is considered worthy to become a monk in a full ceremony in Thailand. It is an immense privilege and honor for the Thai side of the family to be a part of this deeply spiritual event. His Mum is very proud. This video is a brief snip of the various steps involved in the Monk ceremony, from the application process to the cutting of the hair ceremony at the end. The Monk ceremony is a significant and revered event, as it marks the beginning of a deeply spiritual journey for the applicant. It is a calling that requires a great deal of devotion, discipline, and self-sacrifice. Throughout the process, the applicant will learn about Buddhist philosophy and the precepts and rules that govern the life of a monk. They will also experience the unique and revered Alms round tradition, chanting, and other rituals that are part of the daily life in a monastery. As the applicant progresses on their spiritual journey, they will explore the concepts of enlightenment, renunciation, karma, and rebirth. They will also have opportunities to attend meditation retreats and visit forest monasteries, all of which play an essential role in a monk's path to spiritual growth.

[mahayanapilgrim]

Buddhadasa Bhikkhu: A Beacon of Wisdom in Thai Buddhism

Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, often hailed as the "Servant of the Buddha," stands as a monumental figure in Thai Buddhism. This article explores the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, emphasizing his unique blend of ecological awareness, pragmatic teachings, and his significant impact on both traditional Buddhism and engaged Buddhist practices.

**Early Life and Ordination:**

Born in 1906 in southern Thailand, Buddhadasa Bhikkhu, named Indapanno at ordination, underwent a profound transformation from a city-dwelling youth to a monk deeply connected to nature. Ordained in 1926, he sought purity and enlightenment, realizing early on that the bustling city of Bangkok was not conducive to his spiritual quest.

**Establishment of Suan Mokkhabalarama:**

In 1932, Buddhadasa founded Suan Mokkhabalarama, translating to "The Grove of the Power of Liberation," near his hometown. This forest Dhamma center became a haven for meditation and a hub for the exploration of pristine Buddhism, untainted by later commentaries and rituals.

**Vow and Monastic Life:**

In 1932, Buddhadasa made a solemn vow, dedicating his life and body to the Buddha. This vow, coupled with his selfless service, earned him the name Buddhadasa, meaning the servant of the Buddha. His commitment to a simple life, aligned with the forest tradition, contrasted with the complexities of urban monastic life.

**Ecological Awareness and "Pristine Buddhism":**

Buddhadasa Bhikkhu was a trailblazer in expressing ecological principles embedded in Buddhist texts. His teachings emphasized the interconnection between humans and nature, stressing the need for environmental stewardship. He delved into "pristine Buddhism," advocating a return to the original teachings of Lord Buddha, free from elaborate commentaries and rituals.

**People Language vs. Dhamma Language:**

A distinctive aspect of Buddhadasa's teaching style was his use of "people language" and "Dhamma language." He creatively employed colloquial terms, including seemingly harsh and vulgar pronouns, to convey profound states of mind. This approach aimed to bridge the gap between ordinary concepts and higher Dhamma concepts.

**Global Influence and Recognition:**

Despite limited formal education, Buddhadasa Bhikkhu received five honorary doctorates from Thai universities. His influence extended globally, attracting students and admirers from various religious traditions, including Christians, Muslims, Hindus, and Sikhs. His work sparked the interest of progressive elements in Thai society, particularly in areas such as education, ecology, and social welfare.

**Legacy and International Dhamma Hermitage:**

Buddhadasa's legacy lives on through Suan Mokkhabalarama, where his teachings continue to inspire individuals seeking liberation. His vision extended to the establishment of an International Dhamma Hermitage and a monastery for foreign monks training as Dhamma missionaries, known as Don Kiam or Suan Atammayatarama.

**Final Days and Passing:**

Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's last days were marked by unwavering dedication to teaching, even amidst health challenges. His final stroke occurred as he prepared notes for an upcoming talk. Despite attempts to prolong his life, he passed away in 1993 in the forest he loved, embodying his teachings on nature and simplicity.

Buddhadasa Bhikkhu's profound teachings, ecological wisdom, and commitment to "pristine Buddhism" have left an indelible mark on Thai Buddhism and beyond. His legacy endures through Suan Mokkhabalarama and the countless individuals inspired by his selfless service, pragmatic teachings, and deep connection to nature.

[holybookslibrary]

Things as they are by Ajaan Maha Boowa Nanasampanno

Things as they are Things as they are are talks initially given to the monks at Acariya Maha Boowa’s monastery, Wat Pa Baan Taad, in Udorn Thani Province, Thailand. As might be expected, they deal in part with issues particular to the life of Buddhist monks, but they also contain much that is of more general interest. Since the monks assembled to listen to these talks were at different stages in their practice, each talk dealt with several issues on various levels. Thus, there should be something of use in these pages for every reader interested in the training of the citta. Download it here (224 pages):

 Things As They Are You can buy the print version here: Link

What is Citta in Buddhism?

"Citta" is a term in Buddhism that is often translated as "mind" or "consciousness." However, its meaning is multifaceted and can vary depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some key points about "citta" in Buddhism: - Basic Meaning: At its most basic level, "citta" refers to the mind as the seat of consciousness, encompassing both cognitive and emotional aspects. - Three Aspects of Existence: In the Theravāda Abhidhamma (a systematic analysis of the Buddha's teachings), all experiences are analyzed in terms of three aspects: citta (consciousness), cetasika (mental factors), and rūpa (material form). Here, "citta" is the knowing aspect of the mind, while "cetasika" are the various mental factors that arise and cease with consciousness. - Types of Citta: The Abhidhamma classifies citta into different types based on various criteria, such as the object of consciousness, the quality of the consciousness (wholesome, unwholesome, or neutral), and the plane of existence in which it arises. - Citta as a Stream: In many Buddhist texts, the continuity of consciousness is described as a stream (santāna), often referred to as the "stream of consciousness." This stream flows on from one life to the next, playing a central role in the process of rebirth. - Citta in Meditation: In the context of meditation, understanding the nature of "citta" is crucial. Meditators are often instructed to observe the arising and passing away of citta and its associated mental factors to gain insight into the impermanent, unsatisfactory, and non-self nature of existence. - Citta-viṭṭi: This term refers to the "thought processes" or "modes of consciousness." In meditation, one might observe different citta-viṭṭi as the mind reacts to various stimuli or gets absorbed in different states. - Purification of Citta: One of the goals of Buddhist practice is the purification of the mind. This involves removing defilements (kilesas) such as greed, hatred, and delusion, leading to a state of clarity, peace, and eventually, enlightenment. It's worth noting that the interpretation and emphasis on "citta" can vary between different Buddhist traditions. While the above points are largely based on the Theravāda tradition, other Buddhist schools, such as the Mahāyāna and Vajrayāna traditions, might have slightly different perspectives and teachings on the concept.  

"Citta" - The Mind's Essential Knowing Nature

Read the full article

[gezinus]

Finding Wholeness Through Our Broken Places (Excerpt): Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, and Gabor Maté

You can watch all our videos at https://scienceandnonduality.com In this excerpt from a conversation from the “Talks on Trauma” series Gabor Maté investigates the paths of personal trauma woven into the Buddhist and personal psychology fields for which Jack Kornfeld and Tara Brach are so well known. Find out more about this series “Talks on Trauma” as part of the “All Access Pass” from the film The Wisdom of Trauma: https://thewisdomoftrauma.com/store/ _____________________________________________________ Tara Brach is an American psychologist, author, and proponent of Buddhist meditation. She is a guiding teacher and founder of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington, D.C. (IMCW). Brach also teaches about Buddhist meditation at centers for meditation and yoga in the United States and Europe, including Spirit Rock Meditation Center in Woodacre, California; the Kripalu Center, and the Omega Institute for Holistic Studies. Brach is an Engaged Buddhist, specializing in the application of Buddhist teachings and mindfulness meditation to emotional healing. She has authored several books on these subjects, including Radical Acceptance, True Refuge, and Radical Compassion. https://www.tarabrach.com/ _____________________________________________________ Jack Kornfield trained as a Buddhist monk in the monasteries of Thailand, India and Burma. He has taught meditation internationally since 1974 and is one of the key teachers to introduce Buddhist mindfulness practice to the West. After graduating from Dartmouth College in Asian Studies in 1967 he joined the Peace Corps and worked on tropical medicine teams in the Mekong River valley. He met and studied as a monk under the Buddhist master Ven. Ajahn Chah, as well as the Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw of Burma. Returning to the United States, Jack co-founded the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts, with fellow meditation teachers Sharon Salzberg and Joseph Goldstein and the Spirit Rock Center in Woodacre, California. Over the years, Jack has taught in centers and universities worldwide, led International Buddhist Teacher meetings, and worked with many of the great teachers of our time. He holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and is a father, husband and activist. His books have been translated into 20 languages and sold more than a million copies. They include, A Wise Heart: A Guide to the Universal Teachings of Buddhist Psychology, A Path with Heart; After the Ecstasy, the Laundry; Teachings of the Buddha; Seeking the Heart of Wisdom; Living Dharma; A Still Forest Pool; Stories of the Spirit, Stories of the Heart; Buddha’s Little Instruction Book; The Art of Forgiveness, Lovingkindness and Peace, Bringing Home the Dharma: Awakening Right Where You Are, and his most recent book, No Time Like the Present: Finding Freedom, Love, and Joy Right Where You Are. https://jackkornfield.com/ _____________________________________________________ Gabor Maté Rather than offering quick-fix solutions to these complex issues, Dr. Maté weaves together scientific research, case histories, and his own insights and experience to present a broad perspective that enlightens and empowers people to promote their own healing and that of those around them. After 20 years of family practice and palliative care experience, Dr. Maté worked for over a decade in Vancouver’s Downtown East Side with patients challenged by drug addiction and mental illness. The bestselling author of four books published in over thirty languages, Gabor is an internationally renowned speaker highly sought after for his expertise on addiction, trauma, childhood development, and the relationship of stress and illness. His book on addiction received the Hubert Evans Prize for literary non-fiction. For his groundbreaking medical work and writing he has been awarded the Order of Canada, his country’s highest civilian distinction, and the Civic Merit Award from his hometown, Vancouver. His books include In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters With Addiction; When the Body Says No; The Cost of Hidden Stress; Scattered Minds: The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder; and (with Dr. Gordon Neufeld) Hold on to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers. His next book, The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness & Healing in a Toxic Culture is due out on September 13, 2022. His second next book, Hello Again: A Fresh Start for Parents and Their Adult Children is expected in 2023. Gabor is also co-developer of a therapeutic approach, Compassionate Inquiry, now studied by hundreds of therapists, physicians, counselors, and others internationally. More on his books and programs can be found here. _____________________________________________________ Science and Nonduality is a community inspired by timeless wisdom, informed by cutting-edge science, and grounded in direct experience. We come together in an open-hearted exploration while celebrating our humanity. Bron: Science and Nonduality https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iz66rBFB0Yk

[vajranam]

Drifting Yogi

DRIFTING YOGI– A rare modern day story of a spiritual adventure

PART -- 1 LEAVING HOME

"On December 13th 2004, I gave up my class 12th board exams and fled to India to become a monk.

I was brought up by a single mother along with three sisters. Growing up through dire poverty, my early childhood years were unforgettably sad and painful.

Having been a dreamy boy, i took comfort from reading poetry and spiritual books at school. I was a lazy, dull-witted student and did not perform well in exams.

Since i couldn't figure out an ambition

for my future, i remember studying the academic subjects only to get through the exams; so that i don't disappoint my guardians who were spending for my schooling.

To distract my attention from the troublesome situations of a boarding school life those years, where resources were scanty... and the constant bullying by elders, i drove my emotions deeper into spirituality and consoled myself through writing poems.

Sometimes gazing at the serene images of Lord Buddha.... i started dreaming of studying and practicing meditation to achieve that amazingly peaceful and hypnotic composure of a sitting Buddha.

And i didn't care about achieving anything otherwise.

So in December 2004 in Zhemgang higher sec. School, aged nineteen i gave up my bio-science exams and embarked on an extremely uncertain, risky and adventurous journey to India without a penny in my pocket.

Making the long story short.......

I arrived in india somehow and with much jubilation got admitted in a renowned Tibetan buddhist monastery in north India.

But soon i was disappointed to learn that the monasteries are just another institutions to study ethics, philosophy and rituals in their respective traditions. And no monastery offered direct meditation instructions to the monks/students to realise for themselves.

After just about one year in the Shedra, i quit the monastic life and started wandering in search of a master or a 'Tsa wai Lama'.

Which happened to be yet another crazy decision.

PART -- 2 MEETING WITH MASTER

AND PRACTICE

After a couple months of leaving the monastery i happened to travel in Lahoul valley near Ladakh.

There i met a wandering Tibetan Yogi building an old-style rock Stupa on the mountain.

Our meeting sparked in me a curious sense of emotions that was mixed with joy and tears when ever he talked to me.

Tired of wandering and pilgrimage, the desperate me requested him to take me to where ever he was based, so that i can serve him and learn more from him and about him.

Living with him, my life became more difficult and uneasy.

Since his nature was extremely harsh and extremely loving sometimes. But at the end of each passing day i found out that my emotions were being tested to the limit and he was teaching me a lot in disguise.

So considering his arrogance to me as a rare blessing i made a firm resolution to never leave him in no matter what situation.

After much waiting, i received instructions and his protection to pursue solitary retreats. Constantly wandering from one mountain cave to another, from deep forests to deserts,

From sea shores to solitary islands, sleeping on the roadsides, under the trees and cemeteries, i wandered like a fallen leaf carried by the wind.

Once i walked about 700 miles and bicycled 2000 miles under the heavy rains and scorching sun of tropical India. They were all a part of my yogic practice of drifting without a particular aim.

For more than twelve years, being so lost and carried away in retreats and wandering... i have almost forgotten my home country Bhutan.

PART -- 3 A VISION

During my retreats in the forests of central India, my provisions were taken cared by the innocent villagers, who were newly converted buddhists due to caste issues in indian social system.

Villagers were more than happy to have me, a buddhist practitioner from a foreign land in their remote villages.

So moved by their innocent reverence i started teaching them meditation, the essence of all the teachings of the buddha.... Although i struggled to interpret my thoughts to them through my extremely poor spoken Hindi.

Later in early 2017 i travelled to south east asian countries invited by some friends.

There i was surprised to discover a vibrant culture of education and youth who were equally enthusiastic to practice meditation to enhance their quality of lives through spiritual values and understanding.

We can all agree to one inevitable challenge, that our pursuit of modern lifestyle and it's glamour, is costing a serious toll on mental health to everyone.

And simultaneously dragging our beautiful home planet into a disaster of pollution and over-exploitation.

It was highly nourishing for me to meet amazing young people in those countries, who were raising concerns about the future of humanity and giving their commitments to spiritual lives through the practice of meditation in their daily lives.

In late 2018 i came back to Bhutan to visit my mother.

And started travelling and teaching meditation in Bhutan without the pre-requirements of arduous ngondro practices.

To my surprise many students young or elderly, literate or illiterate, started giving me amazing feedbacks through their own experiences just after a few months of practice. And were thoroughly inspired to follow the path of meditation in order to understand the dharma deeper for further enlightenment.

Some students have stopped drinking and smoking as a natural effect of meditation. And a few more have recovered from depression and migraine.

But at the same time, some people seemed still confused and quite suspicious regarding my initiatives.

While i welcomed their doubts and criticism, i was also scanning the psychological landscape of people influenced by their own belief systems.

So my dear elders, youngers, friends and relatives in Bhutan.

Let me take some space to share my humble opinions of what meditation is all about.

In other countries buddhist meditation is taught in school systems to enhance the performance of students.

i have seen buddhist meditations practiced in christian churches to generate faith and devotion in christ.

Buddhist meditations are practiced by psychologist and psychiatrists and implemented on their patients to recover from their mental disorientation.

Buddhist meditations are taught in high profile leadership and business management courses to enhance their productivity.

Buddhist meditation is practiced in the military of some countries for better focus and precision in their training.

Buddhist meditation is practiced by hard-core criminals in prisons to recover from their corrupted state of minds.

One friend in Philipines, a school teacher is teaching meditation in a catholic school, and the school administration approves her initiative.

In Burma, Sri lanka and thailand politicians practice meditation to render their political service more effectively.

So my dear friends in Bhutan,

those people in other countries may never have heard of arduous ngondro practices but they are still practicing meditation as the heart of all teachings of buddha and getting benefited immensely.

Now.... one can definitely argue my statements that those meditations are from different origins, like the Theravada from Burma or Srilanka,

Zen from Japan and ours is secret Dzogchen from the path of vajrayana.

To this possible argument, i can simply answer that even if the meditation practices originate from different, different countries and traditions....... ALL THOSE MEDITATION MANUALS EXIST IN THE VAST COMPILATION OF KANJUR AND TENJUR, TO WHICH WE ALL PROSTRATE UN-KNOWINGLY

WHEN WE VISIT THE TEMPLES AND MONASTERIES.

Ngondro, a set of mandatory preliminary practices that require five to 6 months to complete is an amazing tool to enter the Vajrayana buddhist path.

But at the same time...... Buddhas meditation teachings, being the answer to all human quests....sadly remain inaccessible to a large section of devout buddhists in our country. Simply because most aspiring meditation practitioners cannot fulfill the obligation to complete the long and arduous ngondro which is the standard practice required by tradition, as the gateway to the path of meditation.

But dear friends.... I speak with conviction through what little experience and observations i have gathered, that ngondro can be also practiced after meditation.

in fact NGONDRO BECOMES MUCH MORE AUTHENTIC AND JOYFUL IF PRACTICED WITH A PRIOR EXPERIENCE OF MEDITATION.

A few weeks ago a friend of mine sent me the Royal Kasho granted by our beloved His majesty the king, regarding the reformation of educational system.

As a humble citizen, I was deeply moved by the concerns made by His majesty the King, regarding the future of our youth and education in comparison to the extremely fast changing environment we live in.

My heart was throbbing.... and while i was holding my breath, i realised that even as a humble and a nameless citizen, living lonely as the road, i have fondly entertained many dreams.... if my independent research in the field of meditation therapies from the deep buddhist wisdom, can contribute an additional facility to our existing model of education.

So on this beautiful social networking platform i drifting yogi would like to share my deep prayers and aspirations

To teach meditation further in Bhutan,

Purely as a science of self discovery under secular setting.... and also as the essence of our Vajrayana path.

I have a dream to teach meditation to our budding youth to empower themselves to pursue their passion in life and achieve their goals to live a life of contentment.

And recovering from any kind of addictions from substance abuses through mental strength cultivated from meditation.

In 2019 when i was still in India, i heard some horrifying news from Bhutan about a series of rapes of minors in Paro, Dagana and somewhere.

My senses went numb.... and my mind was in dilemma out of sheer terror.

Because deep down.... i felt, if our youth can be educated in the practice of meditation, then such horrors can be totally prevented, by transforming the emotions of the practitioner into a naturally joyful and liberated state of being.

Finally, before i end this story,

I will drop a wish, that this story reach as many readers as possible.

And I deeply apologise if reading this story was a waste of time to some readers.

If any reader like this story, then i thank you for ur gesture of support.

And if any reader find flaws in my statements,

I welcome your valued criticism, so that i can learn a little from you.

MAY ALL BEINGS BE HAPPY!"

– By Drifting Yogi (Aka Sherab Dorji, 35)

Written on the bank of River Gamri, Lungten Zampa, Trashigang, Eastern Bhutan on 17 Feb.2021.

[talonabraxas]

Buddhism

Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism who later became known as “the Buddha,” lived during the 5th century B.C.

Gautama was born into a wealthy family as a prince in present-day Nepal. Although he had an easy life, Gautama was moved by suffering in the world.

He decided to give up his lavish lifestyle and endure poverty. For nearly six years, he undertook fasting and other austerities, but these techniques proved ineffectual and he abandoned them. He eventually promoted the idea of the “Middle Way,” which means existing between two extremes. Thus, he sought a life without social indulgences but also without deprivation.

After regaining his strength, he seated himself under a Bodhi tree in west-central India and promised not to rise until he had attained the supreme enlightenment. After fighting off Mara, an evil spirit who tempted him with worldly comforts and desires, Siddhartha reached enlightenment, becoming a Buddha at the age of 35. He spent the rest of his life teaching others about how to achieve this spiritual state.

When Gautama passed away around 483 B.C., his followers began to organize a religious movement. Buddha’s teachings became the foundation for what would develop into Buddhism.

In the 3rd century B.C., Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan Indian emperor, made Buddhism the state religion of India. Buddhist monasteries were built, and missionary work was encouraged.

Over the next few centuries, Buddhism began to spread beyond India. The thoughts and philosophies of Buddhists became diverse, with some followers interpreting ideas differently than others.

In the sixth century, the Huns invaded India and destroyed hundreds of Buddhist monasteries, but the intruders were eventually driven out of the country.

Islam began to spread quickly in the region during the Middle Ages, forcing Buddhism into the background. Nonetheless, Buddhism eventually spread to Central and Southeast Asia, China, Korea, Japan and, in the 20th century, to the West.

Buddhism Beliefs and Practices

Some key Buddhism beliefs include:

Followers of Buddhism don’t acknowledge a supreme god or deity. They instead focus on achieving enlightenment—a state of inner peace and wisdom. When followers reach this spiritual echelon, they’re said to have experienced nirvana.

The religion’s founder, Buddha, is considered an extraordinary being, but not a god. The word Buddha means “enlightened.”

The path to enlightenment is attained by utilizing morality, meditation and wisdom. Buddhists often meditate because they believe it helps awaken truth.

There are many philosophies and interpretations within Buddhism, making it a tolerant and evolving religion.

Some scholars don’t recognize Buddhism as an organized religion, but rather, a “way of life” or a “spiritual tradition.”

Buddhism encourages its people to avoid self-indulgence but also self-denial.

Buddha’s most important teachings, known as The Four Noble Truths, are essential to understanding the religion.

Buddhists embrace the concepts of karma (the law of cause and effect) and reincarnation (the continuous cycle of rebirth).

Followers of Buddhism can worship in temples or in their own homes.

Buddhist monks, or bhikkhus, follow a strict code of conduct, which includes celibacy.

There is no single Buddhist symbol, but a number of images have evolved that represent Buddhist beliefs, including the lotus flower, the eight-spoked dharma wheel, the Bodhi tree and the swastika (an ancient symbol whose name means "well-being" or "good fortune" in Sanskrit).

Types of Buddhism Today, many forms of Buddhism exist around the world. The three main types that represent specific geographical areas include:

Theravada Buddhism: Prevalent in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Laos and Burma

Mahayana Buddhism: Prevalent in China, Japan, Taiwan, Korea, Singapore and Vietnam

Tibetan Buddhism: Prevalent in Tibet, Nepal, Mongolia, Bhutan, and parts of Russia and northern India

Zen Buddhism is a form of Mahayana Buddhism that’s practiced in many of the same areas. It emphasizes simplicity and meditation—the word “zen” means meditation—in lieu of religious scripture, ceremonies or doctrines.

Nirvana Buddhism is closely related to Theravada Buddhism, but the concept of nirvana is also central to many paths of Buddhism. The term nirvana means “blowing out,” as a candle is blown out, thus ending all attachment and desire to achieve a state of pure enlightenment.

Each of these types reveres certain texts and has slightly different interpretations of Buddha’s teachings.

Some forms of Buddhism incorporate ideas of other religions and philosophies, such as Taoism and Bon.

Dharma Buddha’s teachings are known as “dharma.” He taught that wisdom, kindness, patience, generosity and compassion were important virtues.

Specifically, all Buddhists live by five moral precepts, which prohibit:

Killing living things Taking what is not given Sexual misconduct Lying Using drugs or alcohol Four Noble Truths

The Four Noble Truths, which Buddha taught, are: The truth of suffering (dukkha) The truth of the cause of suffering (samudaya) The truth of the end of suffering (nirhodha) The truth of the path that frees us from suffering (magga)

Collectively, these principles explain why humans hurt and how to overcome suffering.

Eightfold Path The Buddha taught his followers that the end of suffering, as described in the fourth Noble Truths, could be achieved by following an Eightfold Path.

In no particular order, the Eightfold Path of Buddhism teaches the following ideals for ethical conduct, mental disciple and achieving wisdom:

Right understanding (Samma ditthi) Right thought (Samma sankappa) Right speech (Samma vaca) Right action (Samma kammanta) Right livelihood (Samma ajiva) Right effort (Samma vayama) Right mindfulness (Samma sati) Right concentration (Samma samadhi)

Buddha by Talon Abraxas

[panatmansam]

Some more history

Buddhism died out in India and was replaced by Hinduism. One of the main reasons some argue is the “otherworldliness” of Buddhism. Hinduism focused on observing the proper rituals and doing one’s duty. That was the central message of the great masterwork the Bhaghavad Gita. It was written specifically as a rebuke to Buddhism.

Buddhism moved north and east into Tibet, China and Japan and south and east into Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. In those places it changed and absorbed many local folkways most notably nature and ancestor worship. However, the central message of the Buddha was always maintained. The instructions for meditation were there except now they were not read by individuals in groves but by large groups in monasteries.

Enlightenment was now for those in the saffron robe. Enlightenment flowed from Siddhartha Gautama directly in a line from one Buddha to another to your teacher and only such a teacher could pass on enlightenment.

Of course the Buddha never taught this. It was all grafted on later. In fact he would have been appalled at the idea of enlightenment as some kind of magical “essence” instead of insight which came from one’s own efforts!

[checkeast3-blog]

Cause Of Hair Decrease In Women - The Role Of Dht & Sebum

Materials the amulet is made from makes no difference at all in relation to whether or not it is a fake amulet. Gold, silver, brass, copper, bronze, clay, plastic, wood, stainless steel, tin, pewter, bone, ivory - I think I have seen amulets of every sort of material on the planet. Every one of them can be faked easily.

BN: Yes. However, in Buddhism even this deep consciousness is conditional. There is no self of any kind. I know in Tibetan Buddhism there is this distinction between seeing the characteristics of conditions-objects and the characteristic of the deep self. What we were talking until now could be applied to what is considered traditional Buddhism, that is, the tradition practiced by the early community of followers after the death of the Buddha. Today, the school of Buddhism that tries to imitate this traditional ideal is the theravada. theravada Buddhism is practiced in South East Asia: Sri Lanka, Thailand and Burma. Therada could be considered the conservative branch of Buddhism. There are many different religious concepts related to the Buddhist religion, but the main teachings deal with the Four Noble Truths; the Noble Eightfold Path; as well as the Five Precepts. Basic moral guidelines are presented through the Five Precepts, while the Noble Eightfold Path deals with the spiritual growth of a Buddhist. The Four Noble Truths offer insight into the main ideas associated with the Buddha's teachings. Before I left for the Southern Hemisphere, however, I needed a place to practice for awhile, to get back on track, and I knew the perfect place; at Bhante Gunaratana's monastery outside of Washington, DC. The Bhavana Society (bhavana in Pali translates as mental development) is tucked away in the picturesque hills of West Virginia just down the road from Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Bhante Gunaratana is the founder of Bhavana, a Sri Lankan monk who has been in robes for almost seventy years, and a world recognized meditation teacher. BN: Yes, that's the key. This retreat we taught some of the stories from the Dhammapada, and people asked a few questions about the stories. The questions are longer than the talk, and most of the questions are about the person's individual life. So these are even more important than the questions about the stories. The stories are a springboard to get to what the people really want to ask. I talk for about an hour and then we have dialogue for about an hour and a half. People get to bed about 10 o'clock and then get up at 3:45 a.m. At 4 o'clock in the morning, the retreatant begins meditation. BN: But in the Tipitaka, you have so many references from the Buddha himself that refer to rebirth. Even in the Dhammapada we have these two verses that the Buddha announced after he became enlightened which refer to rebirth and the ending of rebirth. And doesn't "dependent origination"--which Batchelor accepts-- include the notion of rebirth?

[imatravelholic]

A Tale of Two (Spiritual) Cities

Same same but different...

Main cremation ghat in Varanasi

Wood pile at cremation ghat

There was a lot of cool graffiti along the ghats!

Colourful street scene in Varanasi

Not sure I'd trust this boat

Bodhgaya: different town, different religion

India or Thailand? Answer: both! (Thai temple in Bodhgaya)

Getting hardcore paparazzi-ed outside another Thai temple

Great photo that Andre took on the local train!

Bonus photo: goat in a coat (!!) at the cremation ghat in Varanasi!

Fun fact: the most sacred place for Hindus and the most significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists are both in India and located only 250 km away from each other - that's India for you! And, spiritual people that we are (haha), Andre and I had the chance to visit both.

First, we spent a few days in Varanasi, the "spiritual capital of India" that likely leads you to conjure up stereotypical images of Hindu pilgrims bathing in the holy Ganges river, gathering along the ghats for religious celebrations and cremating their loved ones along the riverbank. Those images are accurate - we saw a lot of this. While I'm still pretty uninformed about the nighttime ritual that we witnessed (in which Hindu priests chanted and did a choreographed performance involving candle-lit lamps), watching the cremation ceremonies was definitely a novel - and impactful - experience. More generally though, I was surprised by how calm and laidback Varanasi was: I had expected it to be a lot more intense, given that it is the top pilgrimage destination for Hindus (and very touristy, which usually means a lot more people trying to rip you off). For the most part, though, we were left alone and spent many hours casually strolling around and watching people, dogs, cows and goats go about their lives. We also went on a boat tour to watch the goings-on along the ghats, which was a definite highlight.

From Varanasi, we took an overnight train to Bodhgaya, the place where Prince Siddartha attained enlightenment under a tree and became Buddha. For this reason, Bodhgaya is considered the most sacred place for Buddhists and 95% of the tourists in Bodhgaya (a very small town) are Buddhist pilgrims. Something that I found interesting about Bodhgaya is that every Buddhist nation has at least one temple/monastery, kind of like religious embassies. We had fun walking around town and checking out the different temples, each with their own distinct styles - it made me feel like I was back in Southeast Asia! We also spent many pleasant hours at a rooftop cafe owned by a Canadian woman who has lived in Bodhgaya for 8 years (she told us that she came to meditate, met her now-husband and the rest is history!).

[Feb 5th, 2019]

[holybookslibrary]

Pilgrim Kamanita - A Legendary Romance - by Karl Gjellerup

Pilgrim Kamanita – A Legendary Romance Pilgrim Kamanita - A Legendary Romance. In 1917, the two Danish authors Karl Gjellerup and Henrik Pontoppidan shared the Nobel Prize in Literature. Karl Gjellerup is the least known but wrote some fantastic works on diverse subjects. He wrote in German and here is a surprising work of literature he wrote on Buddhism. It is about the journey of Kamanita, an Indian merchant's son, from earthly prosperity and sensual romance, till his meeting with a stranger monk who is Gautama Buddha. In Thailand, The Pilgrim Kamanita is on the school programme. The Pilgrim Kāmanīta’ was published in German in 1906, 16 years before Hermann Hesse published his similar and much more well-known novel Siddartha. This version of The Pilgrim Kamanita is published and edited by Amaro Bhikkhu as a dedication when the Amaravati Buddhist Monastery opened in 1999. Download the work here (28,3 MB/540 pages):

Pilgrim Kamanita by Karl Gjellerup You can buy the print version here: Link  

Pilgrim Kamanita – A Legendary Romance: An Overview

"Pilgrim Kamanita – A Legendary Romance" is a captivating novel by Nobel Prize-winning Danish author Karl Gjellerup. Set against the backdrop of ancient India, this tale is a profound exploration of love, karma, rebirth, and the teachings of Buddhism. The Enchanting Encounter The narrative unfolds with Kamanita, the son of a prosperous merchant, encountering the mesmerizing Vasitthi during a festive celebration—their instant connection and deep-seated love for each other form the crux of the story. However, fate has other plans, and the two lovers are separated by circumstances beyond their control. Trials, Tribulations, and Teachings As the story progresses, both Kamanita and Vasitthi navigate a series of challenges. Their journeys are not just physical but also spiritual, as they grapple with the consequences of their past actions, or karma. The teachings of the Buddha play a pivotal role in the narrative, offering insights into the nature of existence, the cycle of rebirth, and the path to enlightenment. Kamanita's Spiritual Odyssey A significant portion of the novel is dedicated to Kamanita's spiritual evolution. Following his demise, his virtuous deeds earn him a place in one of the heavenly realms. Yet, even in paradise, he remains tormented by the absence of Vasitthi. His relentless quest for her and his encounters in the celestial realm provide readers with a deep understanding of Buddhist concepts of life, death, and the afterlife. Conclusion "Pilgrim Kamanita – A Legendary Romance" is more than just a love story. It's a philosophical exploration of life's deeper meanings, intertwined with the teachings of Buddhism. Gjellerup's masterful storytelling and profound insights into human nature make this novel a must-read for those seeking both romance and spiritual enlightenment.   Read the full article

[munichasia]

Lucky me. Just arrived in Bangkok, Thailand to see this stunning sunset 🌇 No filter needed. 😊💯🇹🇭📸🔥 Loha Prasat at Wat Ratchanatdaram showcases a rare form of an monastery with its 37 golden spears representing the 37 mind-training dharma. Greetings and have a fantastic evening. ~~~~ Loha Prasat, which means iron castle or iron monastery (โลหะปราสาท), is composed of five towers, of which the outer, middle and the center towers contain large black iron spires. The 37 virtues that are required to reach enlightenment are signified by 37 golden spires. The 36-meter-high multi-tiered structure consists of 3 levels, the bottom one has 24 spires, the middle one 12 and the top level has 1 spire. . . . #ilovethailand #thaiculture #thailandtourism #unseenthailand #thailand_ig #thailandgram #thailandinsider #thailandismagic #beautifulseasia #travelsoutheastasia #southeastasiatrip #discoverasia #visitasia #seasiatravel #southeastasiatravel #total_asia #amazingasia #asia_vacations #loveasia #weroamabroad #cityshots #createxplore #destination_wow #opticalwander #bangkoktrip #bangkokview #bangkokcityvibes #bbkk (at Loha Prasart - Wat Ratchanaddaram) https://www.instagram.com/p/ChpPX7DPfMf/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[jose-a-perez]

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Stupa — a reliquary monument symbolizing the enlightened mind of the buddhas. They can vary in size and shape, but often have a wide square base, a rounded middle and a tall conical section at the top. They are found in the great monasteries and Buddhist centres of countries such as India, Tibet, Burma, Sri Lanka and Thailand. Originally, stupas were built to enshrine the relics of the Buddha and his most important disciples. As symbolic representation of the enlightened mind of the Buddha, they are of great significance and importance. 🙏🧘🏻‍♂️🙏🧘🏻‍♂️🙏 https://www.instagram.com/p/CQmwFhXIdvd/?utm_medium=tumblr