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6
votes
5 answers
The Dangers of an Extended Meditation Session
The Buddha was said to have meditated 40 days and 40 nights in a single sitting which begs the question is it possible to sit this long without any physical or mental injury?
As an example, my meditation sessions vary in discomfort. Sometimes when…
pmagunia
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2 answers
How do you repent in Chinese Buddhism?
Repentence is often mentioned in Mahayana texts. Outside of my knowledge of the meaning of the English word, which is colored by Christian concerns, I'm not sure what's involved. What is done during repentance? Is it just a matter of feeling sorry?
MatthewMartin
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2 answers
What are the differences between the three types of becoming?
When reading through the Maha Nidana sutta I came across the three types of becoming: Sensual becoming, form becoming, and formless becoming. I am trying to understand what the different forms of becoming are. This sutta does not explain how they…
Hugh
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3 answers
Dualism of mind and matter in Buddhism
From a source which I don't remember any more (some rather scientific book on Buddhist philosophy) I have made a note, that the psyche in Buddhism is seen or can be seen (by certain schools?) as material.
To clarify this point for me, I wonder what…
zwiebel
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6
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8 answers
Are there meditation practices that improve logical problem solving skills?
I meditate daily, for around 30 minutes or so, I have been on and off for the last few yew years. I only ever do a simple breathing meditation and I find it tends to make my mind smoother and more relaxed (compared to days I do not sit). I am also…
Andre
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6
votes
7 answers
If someone insults you what should you do?
There is a famous story of such an encounter between the Buddha and a ‘difficult person’ named Akkosina. Akkosina’s name means “Not Getting Angry” but he was the exact opposite of his name. Akkosina was easily angered and was always angry about…
Saptha Visuddhi
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6
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4 answers
Does the universe ever end?
I have meditated and come to the conclusion that the world never ends, that conciousness goes on infinitely. This was ok when I felt I had free will, when I believed I was helping other people, when I thought that even what was apparently nonsense…
user8501
6
votes
5 answers
Why can't the Dalai Lama be a vegetarian?
In this answer to 'Are all Buddhists vegetarian?' the poster says
[the Dalai Lama] has a medical condition that disallows
him to be a strict vegetarian.
I've heard this before and never questioned it. But thinking about it - what kind of medical…
Crab Bucket
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What are the twelve aspects of the Four Noble Truths?
For each of the Four Noble Truths, there are three aspects. The three aspects for each Noble Truth follows a pattern of Recognition (understanding it), Encouragement (what is to be done), and Realization (what has been done).
Please elaborate on…
FullPeace.org
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6
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7 answers
How to develop compassion while avoiding attachment?
The Buddha stressed compassion in his teachings. It seems that the more one tries to be compassionate towards people, a natural tendency of attachment develops. For example, it seems that if I try to practice compassion towards my close family (and…
user3547
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3 answers
Going to first session
I'm pretty new to buddhism, I come from a christian family and as such I attended church for the earlier part of my life.
I'm wondering what to expect from my first session in comparison to that of church.
I'm also asking if there's any general…
S.Wessels
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6
votes
2 answers
What is useless/meaningless speech?
An elaborated answer on meaningless speech as in ten unwholesome acts is expected
seeker
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6
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2 answers
Are there any strict Soto Zen teachers online that I could listen to?
Recently, I have become interested in Soto Zen. I would like to go to a Soto Zen center, but I live to far away from one. This leaves me with the option for listening to online talks. Are there any free online dharma talks given by reliable teachers…
Soto
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6
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5 answers
Eating meat and buying meat
Buddha said to his disciples (monks), meat can be eaten if they are not seen, heard or suspected to have been killed on purpose for a monk. Eating meat is different from killing animal, it's clear.
Lay people on the other side do not obtain meat…
B1100
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6
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4 answers
Did the Buddha make any reference to Krishna and Gita?
As Hinduism was a prominent religion of the Buddha's time (though not in today's unified form ), Buddha must have learnt about the Gita and krishna's philosophy. In fact, the Buddha's karma philosophy and the notion of 'skillful karma' ( performing…
gaj
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