About Hannah Gould

Hannah Gould is an anthropologist specializing in death rituals, Buddhism, and social change. With a PhD from the University of Melbourne and an MSc from Oxford University, her research focuses on the evolution of death traditions and cultural transformations. Currently, she holds a Melbourne Postdoctoral Fellowship, exploring transnational deathcare practices in the Asia-Pacific region.
Hannah Gould is an anthropologist specializing in death rituals, Buddhism, and social change. With a PhD from the University of Melbourne and an MSc from Oxford University, her research focuses on the evolution of death traditions and cultural transformations. Currently, she holds a Melbourne Postdoctoral Fellowship, exploring transnational deathcare practices in the Asia-Pacific region.
Exploring the teachings of Buddhist Sutras through the 84000 project

Exploring the teachings of Buddhist Sutras through the 84000 project

17
Jul
2024
Literature, Mahāyāna, Sutras
The 84000 project is a significant endeavor in making accessible through meticulous translation and scholarly annotation. Rooted in a deep academic approach, it offers invaluable insights into the diverse of , focusing on texts that span various traditions and themes essential to both novice practitioners and advanced scholars alike. Academic Rigor and Methodology One of the distinctive features of 84000 is its rigorous methodology in translation. Unlike many other projects, it places a strong .
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Amitabha Buddha Buddhist Thangka Painting

The enigmatic blend of rationality and devotion in Buddhism

4
Nov
2023
Culture
At first, appears to be an enigma. On the one hand, it is highly logical and rational, without any dogmatic beliefs. On the other hand, when we come into contact with its , we find that it includes , doctrines beyond our understanding, and a program of training that emphasizes faith and discourages doubt. Empirical approach vs spiritual viewpoint When we attempt to understand our own bond with the Dhamma, we eventually face .
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Origin of Yoga and its connection with Buddhism

21
Oct
2023
Dharma, Yoga
Nowadays, you can find classes in nearly every city, and there are numerous online platforms that facilitate practicing yoga at home. Yoga involves a combination of physical postures and breath , which can be either static or flowing, slow or fast. Historical origins of Yoga It is essential to understand the core and purpose of yoga and its historical origins. This offers valuable insights into the cultural context during which the lived and .
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Avalokiteshvara Thangka Painting

Samatha as a preparatory stage for Vipassanā

14
Oct
2023
Meditation
is commonly seen as a foundational practice, serving as a preparatory step for more advanced of , including Vipassanā. It plays a crucial role in calming the 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 components of the . It is often undertaken after a foundation in .
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Chinese Early Qing Dynasty "Water and Land Ritual" Painting, 17th Century

Buddhist Rituals – A captivating fusion of materiality and spirituality

7
Oct
2023
Culture
have long been a subject of fascination and inquiry. They encompass a rich of practices, from and chanting to and ceremonies. Beyond their surface, these are deeply intertwined with materiality, forming a complex and meaningful relationship that merits exploration. On the surface, 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 .
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108 Verses Praising Great Compassion By Lama Lobsang Tayang

21
Aug
2023
Avalokiteśvara, Dharma, Vajrayāna
This translation of 108 Verses Praising is of the renowned Lobsang Tayang's . He was a highly esteemed interpreter of the Gelugpa tradition, and his writings cover a wide range of literature, , logic and . About Lama Lobsang Tayang was born in 1867 in the Gobi desert, was renowned for his vast of . He was compared to the Indian pandit Ashvagosha, author of the “50 Verses .
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Acarya Bhavaviveka converting a nonbeliever to buddhism

Bhāviveka – The founder of the Svātantrika tradition of the Mādhyamaka school

11
Jan
2023
Dharma
, also known as Bhavya or Bhāvaviveka, was a 6th century . In , Bhāviveka is considered the founder of the Svātantrika tradition of the Mādhyamaka school, which is considered to be an antagonist of the Prāsaṅgika Madhyamaka. The Madhyamaka school The Madhyamaka school, also known as the "" school, is a major tradition within Indian . The Madhyamaka , as propounded by the Indian Nāgārjuna in the 2nd century, asserts .
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Tibetan Gau boxes & Amulets

3
Jan
2023
Design, Handicrafts
Ga'u or Gawu is a item also known as box. Gau are generally made from hand hammered metals. The purpose and function of an amulet box is for general protection and protection when traveling. Amulet boxes are also commonly used to store all manner of materials such as small texts, blessing cords, consecrated , relics, and the like. Types of Gau Box Tibetan Gau boxs can be categorized according to their size, .
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Marathon Monk art

The Spiritual Athlete’s Path to Enlightenment

3
Jan
2023
Monks
Throughout this world, there are many mysterious and amazing feats that can be found. People are capable of doing most incredible things that we have never deemed possible. Only by truly believing in ourselves can we accomplish what were thought as impossible goals. Marathon of In Mount Hiei of , there can be found a small group of who live in a and can accomplish many remarkable challenges. This mountain had .
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