Embracing Early Meditation and Vipassanā Practices with Ester Bianchi
Over recent decades, there has been a notable resurgence of interest in earlier meditation techniques, particularly within the Theravāda tradition, across the Sinitic world.
This trend has seen a remarkable adoption of practices such as vipassanā, drawn from canonical scriptures or introduced from South-East Asia.
Chinese followers, drawn to the allure of these ancient Buddhist practices, have embraced them eagerly, seeking alternatives to the traditional Chinese Buddhist methods.
These practices find a home in various settings, including mainstream Chinese monasteries, Theravāda monasteries, and secular meditation centers, attracting a diverse range of practitioners seeking mental and physical well-being benefits.
In her presentation, Ester Bianchi from the University of Perugia will delve into the popularity of these earlier meditation practices and modern forms of vipassanā, exploring the motivations of practitioners and the implications for societal well-being.
The discussant, Ngar-sze Lau from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, brings expertise in contemplative education and lay Buddhist meditation, adding depth to the discourse.
The Yin-Cheng Distinguished Lecture Series, established to honor key figures in Buddhism, serves as a platform for the dissemination of knowledge and discussion on Buddhist Studies across prestigious international universities.
