European Buddha

In this episode, we are honored to have Deny Rinpoche join us. He is a regular speaker of the EBU Contemplative Science Network. We shed light on the importance of precise language usage, particularly when exploring concepts such as mindfulness and awareness, which can vary in interpretation across different languages. Our discussion delves into the challenges of translating experiential knowledge into words and the significance of establishing a meaningful connection between language and personal experience. In the spirit of experiential learning, we engage in a practice exercise guided by Deny Rinpoche. This allows us to personally connect with the teachings and reflect on their relevance in our lives. We also delve into the transformative power of the Dharma, exploring how its infusion into society can bring about profound changes. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we delve into the realms of contemplative science and the transformative potential of the Dharma in society. Recommended reading: Openness, Clarity, Sensitivity - Rigdzin Shikpo Last meeting of the Contemplative Science Network on Youtube

In this episode, we are joined by Dominique Side, an expert in Buddhist education and the author of „Windows into Buddhism.“ Dominique shares her insights on the European Buddhist Union’s project to teach Buddhism in schools and the importance of making Buddhism accessible to young people. We discuss the role of mindfulness and meditation in education and the benefits of incorporating Buddhist practices into the classroom. Dominique emphasizes the power of Buddhism in turning information into personal knowledge and conviction, and how this can shape the way young people think and act in the world. Tune in to this enlightening conversation on the importance of teaching Buddhism in schools and its potential impact on students’ lives. Check out „Windows into Buddhism“ for more insights and practical resources on teaching Buddhism in the classroom.

Welcome to the latest episode of our podcast, where we are honored to have Martin Schaurhofer, Secretary of the Austrian Buddhist Union, as our guest. We discussed the 40th anniversary of the Austrian Buddhist Union's recognition as a religion by the state of Austria. Mr. Schaurhofer shares with us the history of the organization, its challenges, and its achievements in the past four decades. He emphasizes the importance of being innovative and creative to adapt to the changing world and meet the needs of our time. He says, "We need innovative and crazy ideas for the future!" He also highlights the significance of humor and love in the practice of Buddhism. Humor is a great way to connect with people and to lighten up the atmosphere. He states, "Humour and love are so important!" Join us in this enlightening conversation with Martin Schaurhofer, and discover how the Austrian Buddhist Union is making a positive impact on individuals and communities. https://www.buddhismus-austria.at/home-en-us/

In this episode, we explore the intersection of Hispanic culture and Buddhism through the experiences of Ricardo Guerrero Diañez, founder of the Hispanic Association of Buddhism. We discuss the process of building a bridge of two seemingly different worlds, as well as the unique opportunity each translation of the Buddhadharma brings to the practice of Buddhism. We also delve into the importance of the consideration of the culture we inherit how the Hispanic Association of Buddhism is working towards creating a more mindful and welcoming space for all people. As Ricardo states "Come and see" and join us as we learn from Ricardo's journey and insights.  https://buddhismohispano.org EBU_Magazine - Article from Ricardo Guerrero Diañez

In this episode, we take a dive into the Italian Buddhist Union with Stefano Bettera. Founded in 1985, the Italian Buddhist Union is a federation of Buddhist groups and centers in Italy, representing a wide range of different traditions and lineages. As an activity based organization the UBI (unionebuddhistaitaliana)  promotes the integration of Buddhism into Italian society through programs and initiatives aimed at education, social action, interfaith dialogue and more. In this episode we  explored the Italian Buddhist Union and its mission. One of Stefanos key statements were: "Just do it!" Well, so let´s just do it and join us as we learn more about the diversity and richness of Buddhism in Europe! And yes - have a look on the new logo of the UBI:  https://unionebuddhistaitaliana.it/en/

In the year-end episode, Emilia Raunio and Martin Landschein reunite with Ron Eichhorn, President of the EBU. They talk about how Buddhist principles can be brought into European Society and the important work that the EBU has done over the year - as a pan-traditional pan-European Buddhist organization, its doors are wide open to all people who are Buddhists or sympathize with Buddhist values. Ron Eichhorn gave some insights into his work and talked about what it’s actually like to be President of the European Buddhist Union.  Join us & Engage: http://europeanbuddhism.org Click here to donate and help us to benefit all sentient beings! If you want you can donate to certain projects or aspects of our work - or just support us in general. We sincerely appreciate your support! 

The Dharma is not male or female, not straight or gay, not cis or trans, but it is definitely queer! We spoke with our guest Dr. Michael Vermeulen about Rainbow Sangha, the acronyms LGBTQI+ and about Rainbow Sangha and it´s importance for Buddhism. What is meant by identify? We think of ourselves often in specific categories but what is meant when we talk about identify and how does a healthy approach on that looks like that is vulnerable, open and in touch with the environment? Given many lectures and articles on that topic Michael Vermeulen was a wonderful guest to explore these important topics with us. He was the Representative of the European Buddhist Union (EBU) to the European Union from 2011 to 2015 and studied Philosophy, Medicine and Theology & Religious Studies.  Rainbow Sangha: connecting LGBTQI+ Buddhists, including friends and allies. We aim to end the isolation of LGBTQI+ people by making queer Buddhists more visible within their communities, within society and within history. We want to give a voice to queer Buddhism, identify safe spaces and provide resources for them. We also support engaged Buddhist actions motivated by values such as non-discrimination and human rights. Michael Vermeulen (mmdv68-ebu@yahoo.co.uk) Visit our Shownotes!

Jamie Cresswell: Former President of the European Buddhist Union, member of the Soka Gakkai International UK and buddhist practitioner for 30 years. His Buddhist background includes a degree in Buddhist studies and practice and study in many traditions and schools. He is the Director of the Centre for Applied Buddhism which focusses on the application of Buddhist philosophy to contemporary issues. A suitable guest to bring this year’s topic of „Engaged Buddhism“  into focus again. We spoke with Jamie about the requirements to care and change our world:  inner strength and intention - important qualities that can support our search of what might be useful for our Western society and what we all can learn from the wisdom of Buddhism.  Centre for Applied Buddhism UK 

All through the long history of Buddhism, women have played a very important role. They received full ordination from the Buddha himself, were teachers, healers, great masters, founded lines of transmission and achieved enlightenment. The equality of women and men is an basic principle of the European and international legislation. Unfortunately we have to observe a big gap between the legislation and the experience of everyday life. In this episode we talked with Vajramala about her early childhood, about famous female Buddhist practitioners of the past and present and where we stand regarding the equality of woman in 2022. Vajramala, whose real name is Sabine Thielow, is a longtime and personal student of Lama Anagarika and was ordained in 1977 and received her teaching authorization in 1984. She is a teacher and has been running a Buddhist study and meditation center on Lake Constance.  https://www.buddhistwomen.eu

After the summer break, in this issue we deal with a long break: more precisely with retreat. Why does one go on a retreat? What to expect and what is there to consider? Our guest Juha Vajramitra Lamminaho just recently returned from a 5-day-retreat and kindly agreed to take time for our questions. He is a Dharma teacher and lives on the West Coast of Finland with his family. He translates Pali texts into Finnish and is a member of Bodhidharma Association - the oldest Buddhist association in Finland. https://www.bodhidharma.fi