In my tradition, the ceremony of the 3 refuges and the 5 precepts are done together in one ceremony. The Three Refuges In Buddhism, taking refuge has two meanings: to return and to rely. By taking the Three Refuges, we acknowledge that we have been deluded and erroneous in our ways; now we wish to … Continue reading The 3 Refuges
Tag: buddhism
The 5 Precepts
The 5 Precepts are an important ceremony in the life of a Buddhist disciple. The precepts are regarded as means to building good character, or as an expression of such character. One can avoid harm to oneself and others. The precepts are gifts toward oneself and others. People who uphold them will be confident in … Continue reading The 5 Precepts
6 Paramitas: Guide to Living
The Six Paramitas are an important guide to living life, as a disciple of Buddhism. Here are some graphics to help understand them simply... These six paramitas are considered essential qualities to cultivate on one’s path to enlightenment, acting as a roadmap for a meaningful and purposeful life. Practitioners develop these virtues by consciously integrating … Continue reading 6 Paramitas: Guide to Living
Maya, We are All Actors on a Stage
This is a spiritual truth. We are all actors upon a stage, each with our entrances and our exits. But we can change our parts and our stage sets, too. For this reason, writers and artists and actors have long depicted the jesters, the clowns, the wardrobe changes, the masks, and the backgrounds. The goal … Continue reading Maya, We are All Actors on a Stage
Gone Crazy
photo credit when everyone has gone crazy, if you don't also act a little bit crazy, then you're the one that gets labeled 'crazy' you're the one they come and put into a straight-jacket---Tibetan lama Tai Situ Rinpoche
Attempting to Understand the Heart Sutra
To begin, let's listen to the English chant of the Heart Sutra: https://youtu.be/tjHBYgI_x4Y?si=A29vKGlSx3auMOdI Below, Bob Harris explains the Heart Sutra. https://youtu.be/anf1yQEyEDA?si=vRyGltzBid9a-hHB Next find an explanation of the Heart Sutra from the Wikipedia of Buddhism: The main part of the (longer version of the) sutra begins when the Buddha, with his students gathered around him, enters … Continue reading Attempting to Understand the Heart Sutra
Do We Need Churches?
Not sure if this is the best title, but what I'm going to say in this post regards my personal journey. I was raised in a devout traditional church-going household. That's an understatement. Life revolved around our rural church and community. Fast forward and a lot of water has flown by under the bridge. I've … Continue reading Do We Need Churches?
One Seeker's Story 