The Zen Studies Podcast 135 - Grief in Buddhism 1: Buddhist Teachings on Grief and the Danger of Spiritual Bypassing
May 11, 2020
Explore the often-suppressed topic of grief through the lens of Buddhism. Discover why acknowledging grief is crucial, especially in light of recent global losses. Delve into the stages of grief and the societal ramifications of avoidance. Reflect on Buddha's teachings and Kisa Gotami's poignant story about grief and desire. Learn about the risk of spiritual bypassing and witness the power of open mourning through an 18th-century tale. Prepare for integrating grief as a vital part of Buddhist practice.
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Grief As Universal Love-Loss
- Grief is love in the face of loss and is ubiquitous during major disruptions like COVID-19.
- Domyo Burk argues many people are grieving losses they don't immediately recognize.
Getting Over Grief Can Betray Love
- Avoiding grief by trying to 'get over it' can feel like betraying genuine love for what was lost.
- Domyo warns that controlling grief through denial or suppression leaves us emotionally stuck.
Kisa Gotami And The Mustard Seed
- The Pali story of Kisa Gotami shows a mother carrying her dead child seeking medicine until learning death's universality.
- Kisa Gotami buries her son, becomes a nun, and attains liberation after confronting grief.