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Photo by Peter Lin The practice of making vows exists in Buddhism, as in other world religions. The vows of prātimokṣa (Sanskrit), which lead to “individual liberation,” are the principal vows that can be made, and outline rules for disciplining one’s physical behavior as well as not harming others. For monastics, prātimokṣa vows can number […]
Buddhists aren’t afraid of trouble, and they actively throw themselves into serving others. In our service to others, we must not be swayed by what happens around us, and we must courageously overcome all obstacles. We must do what others can’t do, endure what others can’t endure, and give what others can’t give. This is taking advantage of all difficulties to strengthen our minds.
The most fulfilling thing in life is to contribute in whatever way one can to benefit humankind. One who is willing to be of service to others will be able to endure hard work willingly and without complaint because of [their] volunteer spirit. Because of such a spirit, [they feel] boundless happiness and joy no matter how busy [they] may be.
In the stillness of a dark starry night, just before the breaking of dawn, Shakyamuni Buddha attained Enlightenment under a bodhi tree – penetrating all the laws governing the universe. But the great truth that the Buddha awakened to is that all living beings possess this same capacity for enlightenment. In fact, such awakening is living beings' true nature. It is our truest, most natural, and original state.
Photo by Peter Lin The practice of making vows exists in Buddhism, as in other world religions. The vows of prātimokṣa (Sanskrit), which lead to “individual liberation,” are the principal vows that can be made, and outline rules for disciplining one’s physical behavior as well as not harming others. For monastics, prātimokṣa vows can number […]
All Buddhists are fundamentally disciples of the Buddha. In scriptures, it is said that the Buddha also gave teachings beyond our human realm here in Samsara, where different forms of engagement may apply, but for us, as human beings here on Earth, our discipleship can be classified into two categories – as monastic or lay followers.
In Buddhism, we say that the essence of the Buddha, living beings, and true mind are in fact of the same substance. We have the same capacity for enlightened understanding and insight as the Buddha; but with the arising of an unwholesome thought, we have tainted our mind. Our work now is to return to this pure, untainted true mind of enlightened wisdom.
Photo by Peter Lin The practice of making vows exists in Buddhism, as in other world religions. The vows of prātimokṣa (Sanskrit), which lead to “individual liberation,” are the principal vows that can be made, and outline rules for disciplining one’s physical behavior as well as not harming others. For monastics, prātimokṣa vows can number […]
