Archives: BD Articles
Nichiren Shonin: A Teacher of Equality
Based on letters Nichiren Shonin wrote to his female followers, Myokei Caine-Barrett explains why the thirteenth-century champion of the Lotus Sutra was a practical feminist.
Shin Buddhism Is American Buddhism
It’s a late summer afternoon, and strings of lanterns run from the Buddhist Church of Oakland’s substantial facade to the trees in Madison Park. Inside, the minister is giving tours of the hondo, where services are held. He explains the meaning and symbolism of the altarpieces—the statue of Amida Buddha, or Buddha of Infinite Light…
Let’s Continue Aaron’s Work
One year after his death, Funie Hsu reflects on honoring the legacy of Aaron Lee, known to many as the "Angry Asian Buddhist."
In Defense of Ritual
Richard Payne takes a serious look at the role of ritual in Buddhist practice and the reasons why Westerners might feel resistant to it.
Inside the Winter 2018 issue of Buddhadharma: The Practitioner’s Quarterly
The Winter 2018 issue of Buddhadharma: The Practitioner's Quarterly is available now. Preview the magazine contents and sample articles.
What’s the connection between Buddhism and ethnic cleansing in Myanmar?
How have Buddhists become implicated in one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world? Randy Rosenthal looks through history to understand how a religion of peace has become a justification for violence.
What Is Gassho?
Kobun Chino Roshi explains the meaning of gassho, a hand gesture that is often accompanied with a bow.
How Sad Is Your Love?
The conventional definitions of “love” and “compassion” are quite limited, says Buddhist scholar Mu Soeng.
Who Is Avalokiteshvara?
Avalokiteshvara has undergone many transformations over the centuries, but their purpose remains the same — to help humanity with compassion and mercy.
Ask the Teachers: Are there types of work that are incompatible with Buddhist practice?
Konda Mason, Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel, and José Shinzan Palma discuss the difficulty of aligning our work lives with our Buddhist values.