Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast cover image

Upaya Zen Center's Dharma Podcast

Gathering Dharma with Joan Halifax & Matthew Kozan Palevsky: Where Practice and Politics Meet

Nov 3, 2024
Matthew Kozan Palevsky, a teacher at Upaya Zen Center known for exploring Buddhist practice's role in societal issues, joins Roshi Joan Halifax for an enlightening discussion. They reflect on the moral imperative of engaging with global suffering, linking mindfulness and compassion to political responsibility. The conversation touches on the challenges of structural violence, the need for community resilience, and fostering compassion amidst conflict. They emphasize the importance of active participation in democracy and the transformative power of collective action.
01:32:40

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Quick takeaways

  • Buddhist practice is inherently tied to social engagement, urging practitioners to confront and act on global political and ethical issues.
  • Rehumanization is vital in discourse to bridge divides, fostering understanding and compassion among diverse individuals and communities.

Deep dives

The Intersection of Politics and Buddhism

The speaker emphasizes the importance of engaging in social, environmental, and political issues as a fundamental aspect of Buddhist practice. The experience of practicing with a large group in Korea provided a unique perspective on how one's own country and its political challenges can be viewed from a distance. This reflection highlights the need for Buddhists to move beyond mere contemplation and actively participate in the political process, recognizing the high stakes involved in upcoming elections. The dialogue also addresses the pushback from both inside and outside the Buddhist community regarding involvement in politics, stressing that being human inherently involves navigating these social intricacies.

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