I’m culturally a Christian – but in every other way, a Buddhist

With the Holiday season upon us, Sumi Loundon Kim reflects upon her split religious identity: culturally Christian, devoutly Buddhist.

Sign that reads  the ban is immoral  in front of Capitol Hill.

Commentary: Why I’m Not Attending Conferences in the USA

After the Muslim ban was instituted, Buddhist scholar and priest Jeff Wilson vowed to renounce his attendance at conferences in the USA. As a society, he says, it is imperative that we stop hiding behind borders.

The Hungry Ghosts of “Mad Men”

The characters in "Mad Men" are like hungry ghosts, says Rod Meade Sperry, endlessly consuming liquor, drugs — and each other.

Cat sitting in a flower pot in the sun.

How Personal Grief Connects Us to Shared Compassion

Laura Johnson’s eight-month-old cat died as the California wildfires destroyed nearby homes. She reflects on how her deeply personal loss opened her heart to society's shared humanity.

Migrant children in custody.

What Happens When a Government Loses Its Compassion?

Without compassion, everyone is worse off. Zen teacher Roshi Joan Halifax comments on the Trump administration's family separation policy.

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.

US Capitol.

6 Buddhist Leaders Reflect on the US Midterms and What Comes Next

Six Buddhist teachers interpret the outcomes of Tuesday's election through the lens of Buddhist wisdom.

George Washington sitting in zazen meditation.

What Would Mindful Politics Look Like?

Lion's Roar editor-in-chief Melvin McLeod introduces "Mindful Politics," a new collection of teachings and commentary speaking to our troubled times.

The Scorpion Gesture bridges past and the future at the Rubin Museum

The interactive exhibition, based on the Buddhist figures Padmasambhava and Maitreya, takes traditional Buddhist imagery in radical new directions.

Buddhist leaders pen open letter encouraging Americans to vote

The letter urges Buddhists across America to "express your commitment and respect for the innate dignity and worth of all" by voting in the midterm elections on November 6.