Ajahn Sona Where Is the Buddha Now?
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Oct 26, 2019 The talk dives into the unification of North American Buddhist abbots, showcasing personal stories and the growth of local monasteries. There’s a compelling discussion on establishing a monastery, drawing parallels to early Buddhist experiences and emphasizing the role of strong convictions. A significant encounter with a venerable monk prompts reflective questions on the essence of the Buddha's presence. Lastly, the exploration of Dhamma highlights its relevance today, linking kindness and love to our understanding of life's complexities.
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Local Roots of the Sasana
- The Buddha's teaching arrives in a country when locals are born, raised, and ordained there, embedding Buddhism in the local culture.
- Physical monasteries and cultural expressions are primary, not secondary, to sustaining the Buddha's teaching in new lands.
Conviction Over Opinion
- Ajahn Sona differentiates conviction from opinion, emphasizing conviction's role in sustaining long-term spiritual projects.
- Convictions drive action despite uncertainties, unlike mere opinions, which are abundant but less impactful in spiritual culture.
A Poetic Question of the Buddha
- Ajahn Sona shares a story about meeting a venerable Mahayana monk in his 90s during a visit to a Chinese nunnery.
- They discuss the profound, poetic question, "Where is the Buddha now?" and reflect on the Buddha's teaching regarding presence beyond physical form.