

What a Buddhist Monk Learned from Nearly Being Assasinated | Bhante Buddharakkhita
Sep 9, 2020
In this enlightening discussion, Bhante Buddharakkhita, the Abbot of the Ugandan Buddhist Center, shares his remarkable journey from a devout Catholic childhood to becoming a Buddhist monk. He reflects on the near-assassination that propelled him to explore trauma treatment and the integration of African wisdom into his teachings. His philosophy of 'more dharma, less drama' resonates throughout, as he emphasizes the importance of adapting mindfulness practices for healing within African communities and highlights the interconnectedness celebrated in the African philosophy of Ubuntu.
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First Encounter with Buddhism
- Bhante Buddharakkhita first encountered Buddhism as an exchange student in India in 1990.
- He befriended monks who introduced him to Buddhist temples and meditation.
Appeal of Buddhism
- Bhante was raised Catholic but found Buddhism more appealing due to its direct answers to existential questions.
- Unlike Catholicism, which discouraged questioning, Buddhism encouraged inquiry and provided satisfying explanations.
Path to Monkhood
- Bhante's journey to becoming a monk involved a period of uncertainty and a search for purpose.
- He explored various paths, including scuba diving, before realizing meditation offered the most profound peace.