Sounds of SAND #118 Mythic Dharma: John Tarrant
4 snips
Feb 6, 2025 
In a captivating discussion with John Tarrant, a Zen teacher and poet, the rich tapestry of the Buddha's awakening unfolds. Tarrant explores the mythic nature of Buddhist storytelling, emphasizing its connection to grief and personal experiences. He contrasts Buddhist and Catholic perspectives on death and spirituality. Delving into the significance of dreams, he shares how embracing darkness can lead to enlightenment. Tarrant highlights the power of noble conversations and the importance of interconnectedness in our journey toward spiritual growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Story of the Buddha
- John Tarrant's new book, "The Story of the Buddha," is an illustrated retelling of Buddha's awakening.
- It explores themes of Dharma, death, dreams, and the mythic universe.
Mythic and Dreamlike
- Tarrant's retelling emphasizes the mythic and dreamlike nature of Buddha's story, engaging heart and depths.
- It contrasts with more literal interpretations, focusing on the beauty of images and the mystery of consciousness.
The White Elephant
- Buddha's arrival was prophesied in a dream of a white elephant entering his mother's body.
- This image became a symbol of action and kindness, even depicted with courtesans in Japanese art.
