The Buddho Foundation
Venerable Thubten Chodron
Georgia Buddhist Vihara
GBV Youth Retreat 2023
13
Jun
2023
Buddhist Rituals – A captivating fusion of materiality and spirituality
Buddhist rituals have long been a subject of fascination and inquiry. They encompass a rich tapestry of practices, from meditation and chanting to offerings and ceremonies. Beyond their surface, these rituals are deeply intertwined with materiality, forming a complex and meaningful relationship that merits exploration.
On the surface, Buddhism emphasizes detachment from the material world, yet its rituals employ material objects and sensory experiences to enhance the spiritual journey. This apparent contradiction is a central .
Interpreting Buddhist Elder Bakula
Bakula is also known as the Elder from the set of 16 great arhats. Bakula is typical of the group of arhats and advance in age.
The Life of the Bakula
In this section, we are going to learn about the life of the Bakula. And we will learn about the short etymological description of the word Bakula itself.
Etymology of Bakula
Bakula is known as Sthavira Bakula in Sanskrit.
Earlier, we learn about the life of the Bakula. .
Samatha as a preparatory stage for Vipassanā
Samatha meditation is commonly seen as a foundational practice, serving as a preparatory step for more advanced forms of meditation, including Vipassanā. It plays a crucial role in calming the mind and reducing distractions, making it easier for practitioners to progress in their spiritual journey.
Vipassanā, on the other hand, is considered an advanced practice that directly addresses the insight and wisdom components of the Buddhist path.
It is often undertaken after a foundation in .
Top 50 Books of His Holiness 14th Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lamas are believed to be an exemplification of Avalokiteshvara or Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, and therefore the defender of Tibet. Bodhisattvas are realized beings inspired by a wish to achieve Buddhahood for the advantage of all sentient beings, who have vowed to be reborn within the world to assist humanity.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama is widely known as Buddhism’s preeminent spiritual master and teacher, embodying the very best aspirations of this .
Interpreting Vajradhara – The Father of Tantras
According to the Gelug and Kagyu schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Vajradhara is also known as the ultimate Primordial Buddha or Adi Buddha. Vajradhara displaced Samantabhadra who remains the Primordial Buddha in the Nyingma or Ancient School and the Sakya school. However, the two are metaphysically equivalent.
The Esse of Vajradhara
In this portion, we are going to learn about the ease of Vajradhara, after the short etymological description of the word Vajradhara itself.
Etymology of Vajradhara
Vajradhara is .
Top 5 Buddha Mandalas – For Meditation & Tantric Practice
Buddha Mandalas painting is a religious piece of art. In the Buddhist and Hindu traditions, sacred art often takes as a mandala form.
In Sanskrit, mandala or circle is known as a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, that represents the universe.
Mandala is taken as sacred space and also as an abode of fully realized beings or deities.
Buddha Mandala with 5 Dhayni Buddhas
This painting shows the life of Buddha. Buddha mandala is an art either made .