Buddhistisches Tor Berlin Podcast

We began our journey by contemplating the first line of this famous saying from the Zen tradition: “A special transmission outside the scriptures. No dependence on words. Direct pointing to the mind. Seeing into one’s own true nature, realising Buddhahood.” In this Episode, we explore the third week of the 'Essence of Meditation' course, drawing inspiration from the third line of a Zen saying : "Direct pointing to the heart-mind."  Join us as we navigate the intricacies of metta bhavana meditation, a practice often considered challenging. Inspired by the insights of Zen hermit/monk Ryokan, Padmasagara guides us in simplifying and grounding the metta bhavana, making it accessible and effective. Discover how to cultivate loving-kindness in a straightforward manner, with direct impacts on our hearts and the hearts of all beings. 

We began our journey by contemplating the first line of this famous saying from the Zen tradition: “A special transmission outside the scriptures. No dependence on words. Direct pointing to the mind. Seeing into one’s own true nature, realising Buddhahood.” In this Episode, we explore the third week of the 'Essence of Meditation' course, drawing inspiration from the third line of a Zen saying : "Direct pointing to the heart-mind." Join us as we navigate the intricacies of metta bhavana meditation, a practice often considered challenging. Inspired by the insights of Zen hermit/monk Ryokan, Padmasagara guides us in simplifying and grounding the metta bhavana, making it accessible and effective. Discover how to cultivate loving-kindness in a straightforward manner, with direct impacts on our hearts and the hearts of all beings.

Welcome to the third podcast episode of Padmasagara's 4-week meditation course, exploring 'The Essence of Meditation.' This week, we delve into the second line of the Zen tradition saying: "No dependence on words." What does this mean for our lives, and how does it impact us? Join us as we explore these questions, guided by mindfulness of breathing meditation and the captivating story of Zen master Hakuin's quest for healing from 'zen sickness.' As we unfold Hakuin's journey, discover how it sheds light on essential aspects of meditation for your own practice. This is week two of our 4-week course, focusing on the Zen saying: "A special transmission outside the scriptures. No dependence on words. Direct pointing to the mind. Seeing into one's own nature, realizing Buddhahood." Don't miss out – tune in and join the exploration!

Welcome to the second podcast episode of Padmasagara's 4-week meditation course, exploring 'The Essence of Meditation.' This week, we delve into the second line of the Zen tradition saying: "No dependence on words." What does this mean for our lives, and how does it impact us? Join us as we explore these questions, guided by mindfulness of breathing meditation and the captivating story of Zen master Hakuin's quest for healing from 'zen sickness.' As we unfold Hakuin's journey, discover how it sheds light on essential aspects of meditation for your own practice. This is week two of our 4-week course, focusing on the Zen saying: "A special transmission outside the scriptures. No dependence on words. Direct pointing to the mind. Seeing into one's own nature, realizing Buddhahood." Don't miss out – tune in and join the exploration!

Welcome to the first podcast episode of Padmasagara's 4-week meditation course, exploring 'The Essence of Meditation.' This week, we delve into the second line of the Zen tradition saying: "No dependence on words." What does this mean for our lives, and how does it impact us? Join us as we explore these questions, guided by mindfulness of breathing meditation and the captivating story of Zen master Hakuin's quest for healing from 'zen sickness.' As we unfold Hakuin's journey, discover how it sheds light on essential aspects of meditation for your own practice. This is week two of our 4-week course, focusing on the Zen saying: "A special transmission outside the scriptures. No dependence on words. Direct pointing to the mind. Seeing into one's own nature, realizing Buddhahood." Don't miss out – tune in and join the exploration!

In this insightful talk, Tarapalita delves into the multifaceted nature of the Buddha, challenging the notion of a static and fixed image. Instead, he portrays the Buddha as a dynamic and inspiring figure who conquered fear, ignorance, and suffering, unveiling the profound mysteries of life. The essence lies not in a rigid depiction, but in the transformative journey of overcoming adversity.Tarapalita emphasizes the profound significance of tradition, debunking the misconception that it involves the worship of ashes. Instead, he describes tradition as the passing on of a vibrant fire—an inheritance of vitality. Contrary to the perception of clinging to lifeless forms, tradition is portrayed as a dynamic force, urging individuals to be alive, creative, and energetic in their pursuits related to their practice.Central to the discussion is the concept of Sangha, transcending the superficial understanding as a positive group of friends. Tarapalita unfolds Sangha as a profound level of communication and understanding born from shared practices, collective study, and a unified vision of liberation. It goes beyond mere companionship, evolving into a communal journey toward enlightenment. Through practicing, studying, and aligning with a common vision, the Sangha becomes a transformative force that binds individuals together in their pursuit of spiritual awakening.Tarapalita's talk weaves together the dynamic nature of the Buddha, the vibrant essence of tradition, and the profound depth of Sangha. The video to this talk: https://youtu.be/EqUMH0fLZeE

In this compelling talk, Tarapalita takes the audience on an intimate journey through the chapters of his life, vividly illustrating his remarkable transformation from a world of music, money, and a dangerous lifestyle to a profound exploration of spirituality through Buddhism. Tarapalita delves into his early life, sharing insights into a youth spent surrounded by the allure of music, financial pursuits, and associations with gangsters and drug dealers. He opens up about pivotal moments that triggered his curiosity in the realm of spirituality, including the passing of his grandfather, the impactful book "Conversations with God," and a childhood connection with a Buddha statue. The narrative unfolds as Tarapalita recounts his initial reluctance to engage with Buddhism, describing how a persuasive friend led him to a Buddhist center. He candidly shares his reservations about the cultural aspects of Buddhism and how he overcame those initial hurdles. The story takes a fascinating turn as he becomes captivated by Sangharakshita's talks on tape and experiences intriguing moments during meditation. Tarapalita pays homage one of his close Buddhist friends, portraying him as a pillar of strength and kindness. This friend becomes an instrumental figure in Tarapalita's journey, guiding him through various challenges and assisting in his transition from a perilous living situation to a supportive men's community. The talk becomes a celebration of transformation and gratitude as Tarapalita reflects on the positive impact Buddhism has had on his life. He explores the newfound realms of consciousness and wisdom that have opened up for him, attributing this metamorphosis to the teachings and practices of Buddhism. Expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who extended friendship and guidance, Tarapalita concludes by affirming that the path he embraced undeniably works. In a compelling call to action, he encourages others to persevere on their own journeys, emphasizing the transformative power of Buddhism and the potential for positive change.

Dharmasara shares his experience of a three-month retreat in the mountains and reflects on the meaning of becoming a Buddhist. Dharmasara explains that being a Buddhist involves going for refuge to the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. He says that these are the three aspects of Buddhism that can help us develop ourselves, overcome suffering, and attain enlightenment, describing what each of these aspects means and how to practice them in our daily lives. Dharmasara concludes by quoting Sangharakshita, who summarises the three processes of turning around that happen when we convert to Buddhism: from limited ideals to an absolute transcendental ideal, from our little systems or habits or views to a path based on unchanging spiritual principles and truths, and from meaningless worldly contact to meaningful communication. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2gMw04jrNY8&t=35s

Join Lalitaratna as he explores the essence of puja, a devotional practice honoring the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Discover how this practice can reshape our mental state and perspective on the world. The talk delves into Dharma Vinaya, unpacking the truths of impermanence, no-self, and suffering, along with the transformative path of ethical living, meditation, and wisdom. Lalitaratna uses a journey metaphor to explain spiritual growth, touching on intuition, experience, and reason. The discussion also introduces the 12 positive nidanas, guiding one from life's challenges to enlightenment ultimately. The video to this talk: https://youtu.be/ksDOtYYVFWY?si=CZtzcxB543r_EL22