What is Buddhism?
The best explanation of the Buddha's teachings comes from the Buddha himself. In Sanskrit the teachings are called the Dharma which more means the way things are. Therefore Buddhism can be seen as a set of tools that enable us to see things as they really are here and now. Buddhism has no dogmas and encourages its students to ask questions so that knowledge is gained through understanding rather than faith. Buddha's teachings aim at the full development and freedom of body, speech and mind.
Are there different types of Buddhism?
Buddha gave instructions to three main types of people. Those who wanted to avoid suffering received information about cause and effect. Those who wanted to do more for others more were given instructions on compassion and wisdom. Where people had a strong trust in their own and each other's Buddha-nature, he shared the direct view of mind called the Great Seal (tib. Chagchen, Skt. Mahamudra). The first one of these levels is called the Small Way or Theravada, the second one the Great Way or Mahayana and the third the Diamond Way or Vajrayana.
Is a career compatible with being Buddhist?
Buddhist teachings and meditations will help you to think more clearly which of course is very beneficial in all fields. Your concentration will also improve and you will be able to deal more more effectively with people, whether they are colleagues, business partners, or clients. There is no problem with competition as a Buddhist as long as you are fair. When you win you can share your success with all beings by letting them take part in your achievements.
Why are Buddhists working with their mind?
Mind has the potential to experience everything, although until the point of realisation this potential cannot be fully realised. As the moremind starts to see its own nature by developing compassion and wisdom, the practitioner is increasingly able to benefit all beings and experience timeless happiness.
How about any non-Buddhist meditations?
A good suggestion is to try the meditation on light and breath. There is a booklet that more gives different practices which can be found at your local Diamond Way Buddhist centre.
Hello, and a warm welcome to you from the Diamond Way Buddhist centre here in Exeter, Devon. The centre was opened in 2004 and is one of over 600 Diamond Way centres and groups around the world. It is part of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism which is a noble tradition going back over 2500 years.
Meditation is a major corner stone to the Diamond Way Buddhist practice. Our meditation brings a calmness and new awareness of oneself although this is when our practice of working with mind is just beginning. Through our meditation we work on developing additional qualities such as wisdom and compassion for all sentient beings. It is this which gives us a true inner happiness and with regular meditation these positive personal developments become part of our everyday lives.
If you are interested in learning more about Buddhist philosophy and its meditation practices then please have a look at our centre's page to find out about our introductory evenings or see what public events are coming up.
The Source of Happiness - by Lama Ole Nydahl
Buddhism in the West - by Lama Ole Nydahl
Clip from The Today Show with Lama Ole Nydahl
Discover Your Potential - by Lama Ole Nydahl