Amida Buddha Welcomes All Refugees

Jeff Wilson explains how the Jodo Shinshu school of Pure Land Buddhism emerged from the refugee experiences of its two Japanese founders.

Inside the Winter 2019 issue of Buddhadharma: The Practitioner’s Quarterly

The Winter 2019 issue of Buddhadharma: The Practitioner’s Quarterly is available now. Inside, you'll find teachings, book reivews, and more. 

What vows do Buddhists take and why?

In Buddhism, a vow is like a compass, but there are many different kinds of vows that Buddhists can take.

Review: Spring and Autumn Annals

Spring and Autumn Annals is the vibrant story of a decade-long friendship, interspersed with the author's memories of her childhood in Brooklyn.

What Is the Threefold Training?

Buddhist training falls into three categories: sila (discipline or ethical living, samadhi (concentration), and prajna (insight or wisdom).

Through the Lens of Madhyamaka

Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche unpacks the Madhyamaka view of the two truths.

What Are the Five Powers?

The five powers are a set of qualities that work in a sequence to support awakening.

Swimming Upstream

Chinese legend has it that if a carp swims up a waterfall, it transforms into a dragon. Be like that carp, says Koshin Paley Ellison. Throw your whole self into waking up.

An Ode to Phoebe: The Genuine Friend

Lama Surya Das recalls the honest, kind, and thoughtful Phoebe.

Commentary: Let’s Envision a Buddhist Political Philosophy

Randee says it's time to define Buddhist political philosophy. He proposes four core components for a political philosophy informed by the dharma.