Cortland Dahl, a Buddhist scholar and meditation teacher, dives into the essence of Buddhism and meditation. He discusses how meditation fosters honesty and reveals abstract concepts like no-self and emptiness. Dahl emphasizes the transformative nature of Tibetan meditation and how principles like non-harming can be integrated into daily life. He also explores the journey to awakening through compassion, detailing the role of bodhicitta in alleviating suffering. The conversation sheds light on navigating personal growth within the complexities of life.
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Self-Discovery through Meditation
View meditation as self-discovery, not self-improvement.
Focus on getting in touch with your fundamental qualities.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Cortland's Journey to Meditation
Cortland Dahl's initial meditation experience in college helped him cope with social anxiety.
He later sought to understand Buddhism's origins and practices.
insights INSIGHT
Meaning of Meditation
The Tibetan word for "meditate" means "to get to know" or become familiar with.
This emphasizes self-discovery rather than self-improvement.
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In 'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind', Shunryu Suzuki explores the core principles of Zen Buddhism, focusing on the concept of 'shoshin' or 'beginner’s mind'. This mind is empty, free of the habits of the expert, and open to all possibilities. The book discusses various aspects of Zen practice, including zazen (sitting meditation), breathing techniques, and the importance of maintaining a non-dualistic and compassionate mindset. Suzuki uses simple language and everyday examples to illustrate how to apply Zen principles in daily life, emphasizing the need to approach each experience with freshness and openness, rather than preconceptions or a sense of achievement.
A Path With Heart
A Guide Through the Perils and Promises of Spiritual Life
Jack Kornfield
This book is a definitive guide to the practice of traditional mindfulness in America, particularly within the context of American Buddhism. It covers a wide range of topics including the fundamentals of spiritual practice, the stages of insight, dealing with personal issues such as abuse and self-loathing, and the role of psychotherapy in spiritual growth. Kornfield uses personal stories, practical techniques, and guided meditations to help readers navigate the complexities of spiritual life and achieve inner peace, wholeness, and understanding. The book is designed to be a universal guide for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and live an authentic life[2][3][5].
Cortland Dahl is a Buddhist scholar, translator, meditation teacher, and contemplative scientist based in Madison, Wisconsin. In his new book, A Meditator's Guide to Buddhism: The Path of Awareness, Compassion, and Wisdom, he offers an accessible introduction to Buddhist principles and practices through the lens of the three yanas, or vehicles.
In this episode of Tricycle Talks, Tricycle’s editor-in-chief, James Shaheen, sits down with Dahl to discuss how meditation allows us to be honest with ourselves, practical methods for experiencing abstract concepts of no-self and emptiness, how different schools of Buddhism understand enlightenment, and what it means to be fully awakened within the messiness of samsara.
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