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Does the concept of evil spirits occur in Buddhism? Some of the western religions have evil spirits like devils and demons. Does the concept or belief in evil spirits occur in Buddhism? <Q> In mainland Southeast Asia, indigenous spirits have been incorporated to a greater or lesser degree into Buddhist belief systems....	Yes, Buddhism has evil spirits :)
Attachment is a poison. Why is attachment to the Buddha and to Buddhist philosophy not a problem? Attachment (aka craving or greed) is one of the Three Poisons. Why is attachment to Buddha not a poison? Perhaps it's related to the Tibetan Buddhist lojong "Don't make gods into demons"? <Q> Sez who? Attachment to Budd...	My understanding is that the Buddha taught that we should not attach ourselves to him or his teachings. Attachments are bad because if you lose them, you suffer.
What type of Buddhist monks are only allowed to eat two meals per day and why? In this answer , user yuttadhammo described that monks are only permitted two meals per day during the morning hours, from dawn to noon. What type of Buddhist monks are permitted only two meals per deal? Why are theseBuddhist monks only pe...	Among the reasons he provided, the three I remember are: Because eating required begging, not eating in the evening meant not begging at dark, which could be both dangerous for the beggar and, more importantly, scare the householders by generating all kinds of ambiguous situations
Differences of Ultimate Realities in different traditions In Theravada Abhidhamma Pitaka there are four Ultimate Realities (paramattha dhammaa) mentioned, Citta Cetasika Rupa Nibbana Is there any variations in these realities in other traditions of Buddhism? <Q> There are those traditions that disregard pursuin...	The Yogācāra school had 8 citta, 75 cetasika, 11 rūpa and 6 unconditioned elements. There is many variations in these lists between traditions. Instead, the only ultimate reality is said to be Shunyata, unity of form and emptiness, an umbrella term for Three Characteristics of Existence plus Nirvana.
Why does the Buddha appear androgynous in some depictions? In quite a few depictions of the Buddha in artwork, he appears androgynous. Does this represent something significant in terms of a Buddhist message or ideal, or is this just an artistic style? <Q> The impression of androgyny is arising in the mind of the view...	It's an artistic style.
Is it possible to "over-train" in samatha meditation? Every morning I set aside one hour for meditation -- primarily just counting breaths, but occasionally abdominal noting. My overall aim is to achieve some kind of basic tranquility so I can then decide if I should move onto something else. That is, I'm doing "samath...	All in all, the real danger, if there is any, of overtraining is this mental burn out, because when you sink a huge amount of time and energy into something, you want to see short-term progress. I think if you are willing to do more, go ahead.
Was Buddha one man? On Wikipedia Buddha redirects to Gautama Buddha , but there is also a List of the twenty-eight Buddhas Was Buddha a single human man? Or is Buddha a concept or maybe a spirit often reborn? <Q> It means "awake" or "enlightened". <S> Usually, when one mentions "the Buddha", one is referring to Ga...	"Buddha" is a title, not a name. Yes -- Gautama Buddha, also known as Sakyamuni and Siddhartha, was one individual human being described as having special birth signs, foretold as the World Monarch or the World Teacher, enshrouded in protection away from instances of sickness, old age, death, and the holy life so as to...
Is it useful (and polite) to ask a potential meditation teacher about their attainments? In another question , it was discussed whether it's possible to recognize if someone is an arahat. I'm interested in something slightly less formidable, namely the "attainments" that may lead to enlightenment. Specifically, if I ...	It is important to understand what is it that the teacher is proficient in teaching, his/her personal experience and experience as a teacher, method(s) of practice etc. Yes, an unenlightened teacher with a sharp knowledge can still make someone else enlightened by giving a good sermon.
Significance of touching forheads in Tibetan Buddhism (Karma Kagyu)? I have visited a local group of Karma Kagyu practitioners once, hearing a Dharma talk and participating in the mantra, rituals, and meditation. At this occasion, the members of the Sangha greeted one another by touching foreheads with each other. I ...	Similarly, teachers feeling a strong bond with some students will touch their foreheads with them when the students thank them for a teaching received. I too am part of the Kagyu lineage, and was told by my partner at the time (who teaches under the Kagyu lineage) that it also known as a 'spiritual kiss'.
Buddhism and past lives? The idea of having more than one life in Buddhism is regarded not just as a theory but a truth that can be experienced and verified If this is so, what was the technique used by the Buddha to recollect past lives? What is the exact technique that leads to remembering one's past lives accordin...	Technically, the memory of past lives requires the four meditative stages to be accomplished.
What is the difference between a Bodhisatta and a Bodhisattva? Lots of Buddhist words have two different spellings (kamma/karma) because one is the Pali version and the other is the Sanskrit version; but the meaning is the same. My understanding of Bodhisatta and Bodhisattva though, is that they have different meanings...	The Theravada Bodhisatta is the simple continuation of the principle being destined for eventual enlightenment.
How important are incense and candles to a meditation practice? What is the function of incense and candles to a meditation practice? Are they used in all types of meditation or only some types? <Q> Incense and candles are not essential to a meditation practice. <S> They can aid in concentration, but they can also beco...	Alternatively some incense has a calming effect on the mind and many people use it to achieve a sense of calmness and relaxation.
What is the difference between Vijñāna, Manas and Citta? Together they refer to one's mental processes as a whole. Separately, what are they and how are they different? <Q> 'Citta' (the C is pronounced as ch in cheetah) is a generic word for mind, including thoughts as well as emotional state. <S> When the Chinese tran...	Citta Unconcious, contains all experiences we've had, all is stored here Visual overview 'Manas' (both As are pronounced as in Adam) is the "inner eye" that can see thoughts, memories, and one's state of mind (citta). Manas is past mind, citta is future mind, and vijnana is present mind.
Vajrayana Buddhism relies on a teacher-pupil relationship. What in tradition or the literature explains how to find the appropriate teacher? Vajrayana Buddhism is esoteric, in the sense that the transmission of certain teachings only occurs directly from teacher to student during an initiation or empowerment and cannot...	Some rely on the 31st chapter of the Avatamsaka Sutra (also known independently as the "Sutra of the Ten Bhumis") which describes a set of criteria on which to judge someone as a Mahayana teacher.
What are the canonical texts for the Buddhisms of the world? And as a follow up, what institutions are charged with expanding the list of canonical works, if any? <Q> For Theravada there is the Tipitaka: <S> http://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/index.html <S> This consists of the "three baskets" of the vinaya p...	It is generally accepted that the oldest and most core part of the Tipitaka that is closest to what the buddha said, are the four Nikayas Digha Nikaya (long discourses) As far as I know, there isn't an institution to expand it.
Conflict between theistic religious belief and Buddhist practice? From the Buddhist perspective, is there an inherent conflict between being a believer in a theistic religion and a practitioner of Buddhist meditation? <Q> According to Dalai Lama (targeting general public), if Buddhist ideals appeal to you, but you are ...	According to Chogyam Trungpa however (targeting serious practitioners), there is a fundamental difference between theistic religions and Buddhism.
The danger in lying "For the person who transgresses in one thing, I tell you, there is no evil deed that is not to be done. Which one thing? This: telling a deliberate lie." Also The person who lies, who transgress in this one thing, transcending concern for the world beyond: there's no evil he might no...	In certain cases a Bodhisatta may destroy life, take what is not given him, commit adultery, drink strong drink, but he may not tell a lie, attended by deception that violates the reality of things.
Is there any extreme of physical pain that a fully enlightened person would find unpleasant on any level? In other words, by not conceptualizing sensations of physical pain, do fully enlightened people still experience unpleasantness and simply not label it as such, or is the experience fundamentally without anything t...	While techniques do exist to deal with physical discomfort, only enlightenment liberates you from the anguish it causes.
What is taught about Buddha nature in Theravada Buddhism? Reference: http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/snapshot02.htm The very last row talks about Buddha Nature. According to this page, Buddha Nature is not taught in Theravada Buddhism, and to my understanding, Buddha Nature is the potential for a being to become ...	That is because Bodhichitta, the great motivation for the sake of all beings, is an integral part of Buddha-nature and it is not stressed in Theravada tradition.
Is there an English translation of the Abhidhamma? I wonder if there is an English version of the Abhidhamma, in its entirety? <Q> You can find an index of these translations in ATI's Abhidhamma Page . <S> Note that, although no English translation of the "The Book of Pairs" ( Yamaka ) is mentioned in the above link...	As far as I know, there is no single compiled translation of all the volumes of the Abhidhamma but they are separately translated by several people.
Sense of calmness in meditation, what is it? In a first 10 day vipassana meditation course I did almost continuous intensive meditation for 7 days ,I felt a strange calmness such that I could almost not feel the weight of my body , this feeling lasted till 2-3 days and then I stopped doing it, So what is that feeling c...	More likely, you may experience different types of calmness and other experiences, when you let go and are not chasing an experience you've had, previously.
Do all Buddhist schools give dharma names upon ordination? I was glad to read in MatthewMartin's answer to another question that he'd be interested to know if dharma names are common to all Buddhist groups/schools/sects, or if there are any that don't give monks new names on ordination. This is something I've also be...	I saw some scattered informal references to laity in Zen traditions receiving Dharma names (not sure of the extent of this practice) and even a mention of the deceased receiving a Dharma name in Japan:
What are the Pali translations for mindfulness? I know that the Pali word for mindfulness is sati as in the Satipatthana Sutta but I've also heard that there is more than one word for mindfulness that is used throughout the Pali Canon . Can anyone give a list of the different words used and perhaps point out the d...	sati comes from the root /sar, which means to remember or recollect.
Purpose of touching tongue to roof of mouth during meditation While researching forms of meditation involving concentration specific to the Tibetan school of Buddhism, the meditation instruction tells one to touch their tongue to the roof of their mouth when meditating. Recently, I have been reading a book on Taoism ...	As it was explained to me, the purpose is rather mundane.
Can a being be reborn into more that one body in Tibetan Buddhism? I was reading that both the Dalai Lama and Karmapa are both rebirths (emanations) of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara . Also there are other lamas who are also emanations of Avalokiteśvara. So is Avalokiteśvara reborn into more than one body and if...	There most definitely are reincarnations of specific beings in Buddhism. The maximum number of rebirths is five which correspond to the following manifestations body speech
Which Buddha do Buddhists take refuge in? Does one take refuge into the concept of Buddhahood or refuge into Gautama Buddha? What about Vairocana Buddha or Amitābha Buddha for that matter? I've heard various things from taking refuge in a cosmic Buddha principal to the actual Gautama Buddha over the years from various...	They who take refuge in the Buddha, take refuge in the factors (dharma) of the perfected being (arhat) that constitute a Buddha (buddhakāraka), the factors that are the causes of the designation “Buddha” [buddhaprajñaptihetūn], i.e., the factors due to which, as a principal cause, a certain person is called Buddha; or ...
Problem concentrating during Vipassana meditation I am having trouble maintaining concentration for long periods of time. I make my breath slightly hard and then pull my mind back to it and then carry on as normal. But it's quite hard to have a long sustained period of breath observation. Once maintained I try to move ...	Also note the length of the breath in and out breath. Sometimes this helps sharpen the mind to see clearly the sensation arising and passing away in the particular section of your body. I think it is not a good idea to force yourself to keep the mind from wandering,
Afterlife in Buddhism and Hinduism Where does the ideology of afterlife in Buddhism and Hinduism come from and why are they different? <Q> Hinduism teaches about a permanent soul that goes from life to life until it reunites with the universal soul called the Mahabrahma. <S> Buddhism says there's no soul going even fro...	Rebirth and after life are the central concepts in Hinduism.
How was the Buddha Jayanti edition of the Tripitaka derived? I've read that the three Theravada countries Sri Lanka, Thailand and Myanmar all three have their own version of the Tripitaka.I've also read that in 1956 they held the Sixth Buddhist convention with the goal of creating one standard edition of the Tripitaka,...	I believe, although again I have not confirmed it independently, that the Buddha Jayanthi edition in Sinhalese script is descended from the text redacted by the Sri Lankan monks at the 6th Council.
How does conversion work in Buddhism? I am a Hindu, but I like Buddhism. How does that work? Does one need to convert to practice Buddhism? If so, how does one convert to Buddhism? Can anyone convert to Buddhism? Or can I just practice without converting? <Q> First of all, there isn't one agreed upon definition about w...	Anyone can become a Buddhist or you can just practice without any formal conversion. Conversion into Buddhism from a Zen Buddhist perspective, initially requires the initiate to take refuge into the “Triple Jewels” in a formal ceremony headed by a religious leader.
Is Gautama Buddha the greatest Buddha who ever existed? According to tradition, there were 27 Buddhas before Gautama Buddha . Is Gautama Buddha the greatest Buddha out of all the 28 Buddhas? <Q> No! <S> All Sammasambuddhas are equal in their attainment of Buddhahood. <S> They are all omniscient, equal in virtue, co...	First of all no matter which version you learn as Buddhists we all believe that all of the Lord Buddhas are in the same level when it comes to understanding.there can be some differences in small things like how long they would live among humans.
How do Buddhists use mudras? This is a practice question. I know both Mahayana buddhists and Vajrayana buddhists use mudras. In the former they show up in inconography, and hand resting positions while meditating, in the later it's part of elaborate rituals. How are mudras used in lay and monastic practice in Mahayana...	Mudras can represent offerings to the Buddhas that are given mentally. When meeting a great teacher or receiving blessing from him people usually hold their hands together and place them on the heart centre.
Has Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance got anything to do with Zen? I read Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert M. Pirsig a few years ago and really enjoyed it. However I'm not convinced it's got anything to do with Zen . From what I remember the protagonist spends a lot of time fixing his moto...	The title itself is apparently a play on the book Zen and the Art of Archery
Why is it hard to breathe naturally when meditating? For me it is rather hard to breathe naturally while doing Samatha meditation. It makes it harder to concentrate because I'm always controlling my breath. Do you have any suggestion how to overcome this problem? Is this a normal problem for a beginner in Samatha me...	In the beginning one tends to control the breath out of habit.
Characteristics of Sotàpanna person (Stream Enterer) What are the characteristics of Sotàpanna person (Stream Enterer) . Can Sotàpanna person live at a home with a family (married life) without going to a monastery and stay without being a monk... <Q> Clinging to rites and rituals <S> (There are 10 fetters, all of ...	The Pali Canon definition of a stream entrant is one who have abandoned the first three fetters namely Self View Skeptical Doubt
How do Buddhists express condolences? Since converting to Buddhism, I've been unsure how to express condolences when people pass away. Everything familiar that I might say comes from a Christian perspective such as "being in a better place" or "with the Lord now". Simply letting the family know that I'm thinking of t...	We can do no more honor than to pass on the love and compassion the deceased gave us in their lifetime. Buddhist philosophy teaches you to act with sincerity and not to speak for the sake of speaking. Speak truthfully and with correct understanding, you'll know what to say. As a Buddhist raised in a Christian culture, ...
Do the same rules of Karma apply to animals? Animals are sentient beings and therefore are also bound to the cycle of rebirth. However, animals are far less intelligent than humans, and are certainly not smart enough to follow a particular code of conduct, or take decisions which are against their nature. Does Karma ...	The law of Karma is universal, i.e., applicable to all equally and applicable the same manner across time.
Is there any significance to shaving the head? I have noticed when I look at Buddhists, or Buddhist monks, that they have shaved heads. Is there any significance to that? If so, then is it an obligation for Buddhists, or at least Buddhist monks to shave their heads? <Q> First of all, lay Buddhists are not required to ...	I believe they shave their heads because they don't want to have attachments to the body or self image. There are also monastic rules that say that a Bhikkhu is not allowed to grow hair beyond a certain length or time.
Is vipassana outside a ten day retreat possible? Traditionally Vipassana meditation is taught in a 10 day retreat. I have been trying to participate in one of those, but there is only one place where I live that offers this course, it is almost always fully booked, so it is very hard to match their availability with mi...	Also some continuity or length of practice takes you deeper and give better results. Depending on which sangha you are with (if any) they may be more or less willing to instruct you on Vipassna.
Question on the possibility of higher rebirth for animals In the questions Why not kill animals to hasten their rebirth? and Do the same rules of Karma apply to animals? and others, it in part discusses how animals have a very difficult time to be reborn as humans, and stuck endlessly in a cycle as animals. As I un...	No, you can't transfer merits to animals.
What's the origin of 108 being a sacred number? The number 108 is a sacred number in Buddhism, but in other religions as well (Hinduism, Jainism). What exactly is the origin of 108 being a sacred number in Buddhism? Is there anything about it in the ancient scriptures? Did the Buddha say anything about it? Or is it m...	The origin of 108 in the ancient buddhist scriptures seems to be from the total number of feelings classified in different ways by the Buddha :
Strange feelings after meditation and mindfulness practice? I started to meditate half a year ago with my first Vipassana retreat in Bodhgaya. I'm trying to meditate every day since then. Around two months ago I started to practice mindfulness and try to bring meditation into my daily life and not to be mindful only on...	what meditation can do is realign your priorities, it makes you give up or at least not care as much for wordly concerns. I don't think you are alone in this.
What is the recommended time of day for meditation? Does Buddhism have any recommendation for particular time of day for meditation? Can I meditate before going to sleep at night if I don't feel drowsy before I go to bed? Is there any Sutra which talks about this? <Q> No such recommended time. <S> Especially if you ar...	If it's Vipassana meditation, drowsiness won't be a problem as you can meditate on the drowsiness.
Was Buddha born of a Virgin? I was reading a work that claims Buddha "was born of the Virgin Maya" . What Buddhist works address the birth of Buddha? Do any support or conflict with a virgin birth for Buddha? <Q> This refers to a dream that Queen Maya had after trying for many years to have a baby with her husband. <S...	As far as I know Queen Maya is not described as a virgin anywhere in the Pali canon, but she was believed to be sterile by most Burmese Buddhists. He was born as other normal humans are born into the world.
Is there a tradition or practice involving fasting in Buddhism or Buddhist countries? Many religions have period or specific practice including fasting. I'm aware of the eating prescriptions of monks, but are there traditions or practices involving fasting for Lay-people? If not in scripture, are there in culturally B...	Buddha has advised to be moderate in eating.
Sankharas, once eliminated. Do they have a chance of coming back? When I talk of sankharas, I mean the pattern of the mind and the way in which the sanna recognizes an object. After prolonged Vipassana and remaining equanimous to the body sensations, Many of my thought patterns have changed and I can practically see a ...	Yes, if you stop doing vipassana short of attaining Sothapanna, your mind can fall back to an ordinary corrupted state again.
Who are the Buddhas on the Wheel of Life? In a lot of images of the wheel of life there are Buddha figures in each of the realms. You can see them in the image below of the full wheel of life and I've also put in a close up of the hell realm with the Buddha figure clearly visible. So a Buddha is in hell, animal, hungry...	If you look carefully, on most depictions of Bhava-Chakra the Buddha in each realm holds a different object in his hands.
Are the Chakras present in the original Buddha's teachings? I know it is very common these days to associate Chakras with Buddhist meditation, but I couldn't find anything that supports that in the suttas. (I haven't read all suttas) Did the Buddha himself taught about Chakras or has it been incorporated later in some...	Even though Buddha did not mention chakras directly, his various mindfulness practices are essentially chakra exercises.
Buddhist Centres in Paris? I moved to France, Paris recently. I am seeking any meditation centres vipasana, zen, Insight etc., where I can also communicate in English, since I don't speak much French. Can anyone here who knows about any such places or websites please let me know? <Q> I had success with <S> http://w...	I think there's more than one Paris sangha of the Plum Village order.
Is a Mahayana Buddhist required to take a Bodhisattva vow? Is the taking of a Bodhisattva vow a requirement (1) in Mahayana, or is it merely an option (or maybe at most a recommendation)? And if it's not a requirement, then for someone who decides not to take it, what if anything is the difference, in terms of th...	So, to answer your question I think you don't need to take any vows in order to practice the Dhamma, the bodhisattva vow is something that you do
Does (bad) karma have to be depleted to be able to attain enlightenment? This question came to me from over thinking the "Angulimala" story. He had to "repent" to some extent for the murders he committed, by being scolded an hit by stones. However, the effect of the karma seems to be quite mild for 999 murders and even...	Some Karma are only effective after rebirth can remain as a residue but all Karma which would give a rebirth should be removed.
Has Buddha attained Nirvana after death? It is said that the Buddha attained Nirvana after his death. But how do we know that it is true? Are there any physical signs to recognize? <Q> There is no physical signs of that <S> and we can not verify it. <S> Btw, he also attained Nirvana before his death too. <S> So-call...	Nirvana is a loss of form. Probably only enlightened beings (such as other buddhas) can verify this, so until we are enlightened we can't.
Should a Buddhist have Children? In Buddhism having a rebirth is itself a origin of all the Dukhhas. Doesn't it imply that Buddhist laymen who are married should not have children to stop this cycle of rebirth. This leads to a more generic hypothetical question as to what happens if all people in the world stop having ...	Not having children will not stop those beings from being reborn. If I want to have children because it will bring me and my family joy, then yes, it's something I can consider.
What is the Buddhist point of view of the Law of Attraction? I've been practicing it and it seems to work well. It seems that I can explain this in terms of nash equilibrium. I tend to see it that all of us are already physically able to achieve much and paying attention to some topic will subconsciously allow us to m...	Law of attraction seems to create and stimulate attachments, people crave for things and think about them constantly, concentrating the mind on different desires, in that sense I think it is hard to mix it with Buddhism, because in Buddhism we try to let go of attachments instead of trying to fulfill the desires. The i...
Meditation for higher concentration What kind of meditation can help one to have a higher concentration; maybe lasting for hours or days? I am a Buddhist, specifically Theravada, and I am trying to keep my mind on one thing. Buddha kept his meditation in the dushkara kriya (self mortification) period for more than 4 ye...	Perhaps you are looking for tranquility meditation, Try reading Visuddhimagga (Path of Purification).
Meditation technique proposed by the Buddha What type of meditation is proposed by the Buddha for attaining self realization? Is it Vipassanna medition? Is Mindfulness meditation the same as Vipassanna? Which scripture mentions these techniques? <Q> If we take the Pali Canon as been the closest we have to the word of t...	Popular belief is that the Buddha taught two types of meditation; samatha and vipassana.
Theravada Buddhism and Art In Mahayana Buddhism we can see various artistic expressions: Thangka and Songs of Milarepa in Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese and Japanese art also were influenced heavily by Buddhism. Is there any forms of art practiced by Theravada monks? Do you know of any monks who were painters or poets? <Q> ...	I'm told the monks make the decorative parts of the buildings and the statues.
What is the next meditation type after Mindfulness of Breathing meditation? I have been meditation using Mindfulness of Breathing mediation. I will continue for a while, while increasing the duration. When can I say that I "master" a type of meditation? Are there a natural next type of meditation after Mindfulness o...	Some may say that the next stage after Breathing meditation is insight meditation (Vipassana).
a good definition of consciousness I was having a conversation with a non buddhist about consciousness I was struggling to define some key aspects and it kind of led into not self, but I was looking for a concise simple definition. <Q> Technically, consciousness (viññāṇa) is that aspect of the mind that is aware; it i...	Consciousness that arises in dependence on the eye & forms is classified simply as eye-consciousness. A gent definition - citta is what cognizes an object ( arammanam cinteti ti cittam ).
Which Buddhist council included the conclusions that there is no creator-god and no day of judgment? After the Buddha is said to have achieved Nirvana, there were subsequent Buddhist Councils that were held. Some years ago I came across an article that said that it was in one of these Councils that it was made offici...	It is NOT TRUE that any Buddhist Council concludes or makes official something that not part of Buddha's teaching for Buddhists.
How can a person be abstinent? How can a person be abstinent and overcome all sexual urges including self-gratification in accordance with the Buddhist tradition ? What prescription do the teachers give to get over such obstacles ? <Q> Any such urge gives rise to feelings. <S> What you should do is look at the feeling ...	To be able to do this you have to do Vipassana Meditation. For a lay person the general recommendation is to abstain from sexual misconduct.
What is the relation between Astrology and Buddhism? Is there a relation between Buddhism and Astrology? Is Astrology present in all Buddhist traditions? Did the Buddha or his disciples make use of Astrology? <Q> In terms of horoscopes, it is definitely not a Buddhist practice to explain one's future or decisions based...	As far as I know, Buddhism doesn't have an overlap on Astrology.
How many Buddhas are there? If you believe in Shakyamuni Buddha the answer is No, because Buddha was clear about the previous Buddha Kassapa and the next Buddha Maytreia If that's the case, then buddha must be very few in numbers. Why so many want to be a buddha and reach nirvana if only very few would win the lote...	According to the Mahayana text the Lotus Sutra, the number of Buddhas are innumerable.
I have some people coming over who practice Buddhism, what should I know? My family is helping two people from Nepal to come to the United States to study, and their family will be visiting us temporarily. I was told that their family practices Buddhism, but I find myself somewhat lacking in knowledge on the religion/...	Buddhism is buddhism really wherever you go, but cultural practices and cultural identity varies. I do not know anything about Nepal, but perhaps googling Nepal culture or Nepal culture in America might be more beneficial than just Buddhism as a whole. Avoid swearing and telling religious jokes.
Is there common ground between the Tao Te Ching and Buddhism? I am interested in Buddhism and the book Tao Te Ching, written by Lao-Tzu in c. 600 BC. Is there common ground between these two Eastern philosophies? link to audio of Tao Te Ching <Q> There is common ground. <S> But there is common ground between Christia...	Early Buddhism and Daoism (as expressed in the DDC) point to desire/greed and instrumentalization of nature/the world (as defined in SN 35.116) as the causes for unbinding with the Tao/Samsara.
Does Theravada Buddhism accept Jataka Stories? Once in a Dhamma talk I heard a Theravada Monk saying he did not believe in such stories, because some of them contradict the Buddha's teachings (suttas), I don't know if that was his personal opinion or a general view in Theravada Buddhism. <Q> The Theravada accepts the J...	As the Jataka stories are actually part of the Pali canon, it can be said that Theravada Buddhism accepts the Jataka stories.
What are the advantages/disadvantages of meditating with eyes closed? I'm not normally distracted by noise, touch, smell or taste when I meditate. But I do keep looking and looking and looking. Sometimes I'll fixate on a crack between the spars of wood on the floor, sometimes something of more soteriological value like...	On the other hand, with less sensory input, it's easier to get lost in your own little world, lost in wandering thoughts, lost in experiences of bliss that might arise from strong states of concentration. In addition with long-term practice it's somewhat easier to develop a sense of separation from the world, which is ...
Is Mara a real being or something internal, produced by our own minds? I have heard both interpretations, for me it would make more sense to be something from the mind as there is no creator God or its opposite in Buddhism, the image of a "temptator creature" like Satan sounds strange when we think about impermanence, ...	In the Buddhist conception of the universe, the position of Mara, like that of Maha Brahma, is a fixed one that is assumed by different individuals in accordance with their kamma.
Is Satori the same as Enlightenment? Is the Zen term Satori the same as enlightenment or does it have different nuances or emphasis over what is commonly meant by enlightenment in non-Zen texts. If it is the same then why is used at all. Is its usage just a cultural thing and enlightenment could equally be substituted?...	Satori (悟り) is a Japanese Buddhist term for awakening, "comprehension; understanding". No, satori is not complete enlightenment, it is an a-ha moment when the practitioner finally realizes "how things are":
Can a person reach enlightment living an average life, married with children? As the Bodhisattva had to leave his wife and son behind to become the Buddha and as the monks do a similar thing (avoiding marriage etc), I would like to know if this is some kind of precondition to enlightment, if a being needs to stay away ...	In Jātaka tale (whether you want to believe it or not), there are many example of Buddha past life as normal human living with family and still fulfilling Pāramitā to attain enlightenment, and which is also true for many Buddha's disciples.
Has anyone claimed to have reborn in Pure Land, and later returned to earth to help other beings? It is said that a person can choose to return to samsara to help others after being reborn in Pure Land. But has anyone claimed to be that particular kind of person? I am not talking about those who claimed to have visited...	Avalokiteśvara is the the earthly manifestation of Amitabha who has the Pureland of sukhavati.
Are there any specific stories or talks where Buddha discussed using mind altering substances other than alcohol? It goes without saying that alcohol makes you mindless. Theres debate about pot creating conditions for enhanced mindfulness in SOME individuals. My question is not "is it okay". I know what to expect. A...	Taking anything leading to heedlessness is not acceptable.
What are some special meditation techniques and/or objects that have been used to develop mental abilities? What are some special meditation techniques and/or objects that have been used to develop mental abilities to the point of almost being super powers or super human? Not necessarily "super-mundane" as ESP but som...	One of the teachings of my own tradition is the use of inner imagery after overcoming bias.
If a substance enhanced the ability to stay mindful, and didnt cause intoxication or carelessness, would it still violate the fifth precept? this subject is so controversial i cant get a solid explanation.i am retrying an attempt to find better advice on the subject of continuing unorthodox methods that are controversi...	This traditional drink of Zen-Buddhist monks stimulates the mind and enhances one's ability to stay mindful, without causing intoxication or carelessness.
Which canon and traditions does the Flower Sermon text belong to? I've heard of a Buddhist story in which the Buddha just holds up a flower and one monk in the audience understands then becomes instantly enlightened. I believe it is a foundational text for Zen Buddhism. Where does this text originate from? What canon o...	From my understanding the story of the transmission of Shakyamuni Buddha's enlightenment to Mahākāshyapa appeared in the "Daibontenno-Mombutsu-Ketsugi Sutra." It’s first appearance is apparently in the compilation of koans, the 無門關 (Wúménguān, often rendered in English as The Gateless Gate ), compiled by the Chinese Ze...
Is assault against the first precept? The first precept states I undertake the training rule to abstain from killing. So does this mean that punching someone in the nose isn't actually against the first precept and the five precepts generally. It really feels like it should be. <Q> The following five conditions mus...	Assault is clearly against the positive principle in the first precept regardless of whether or not it fits within the strict wording of the precept.
Is it wrong to watch fight events like boxing, MMA, judo etc.? From a Buddhist's perspective, is it wrong to watch such sports on television for example? Of course, I'm talking as a lay person. Monks have a completely different approach regarding entertainment. Does watching it create any bad Kamma? <Q> In one instan...	Whatever you do can create bad Karma as long as your thoughts are defiled with craving, aversion and ignorance.
Why not force awareness of things during vipassana? I have heard a lot about vipassana just being mindful of what happens to come up, not looking for more things to notice. However, if we compare meditation with e.g. lifting weights, when you start, you lift (say) 50, so even though its harder, you add 20 more... The...	The best analysis I have found for the issue is that forcing awareness can, in theory , allow one to become more insightful and aware.
Does the "nature" of a person move with her to the next life? Imagine a person that is very calm, generous, doesn't like to harm others etc. If this person gets a rebirth in the human realm will he/she develop the same characteristcs? The point is that Kamma and the last mental state can go on, but according to Anatt...	You cannot think about your nature, you cannot speak about it, because your thinking is a "product" made from the nature by your tendencies which again raise from your habits. If you look at the span of your life, your year, your month, or even a single day in your life you will see that your nature is in a constant st...
Is austerity necessary in Buddhism? I have been watching Buddhist followers for sometime now in India and it made me wonder if austerity is necessary in Buddhism ? Like if I wish to become a Buddhist do I need to give up on listening to music, watching tv, using social networking sites, making a livelihood by working...	"Practicing" Buddhism typically involves study, meditation, and effort... without, at the very least, some sort of effort you are not practicing anything, and to practice Buddhism is to meditate...making "practicing buddhism" an austere act in and of itself. Essentially, I believe the answer to your question is "No", "...
What is observing the precepts in a Hinayana way or a Mahayana way? In Zen Mind, Beginners Mind Shunryu Suzuki says observing the precepts in a Hinayana way is violating the precepts in a Mahayana way Can an one give an explanation of way he is getting at here and perhaps a concrete instance of when that might o...	"Observing the precepts in a Hinayana way" while "violating the precepts in a Mahayana way" is refraining from negative action with the egoistic intent of becoming a more spiritually advanced person.
Should Buddhists avoid Amazon and Starbucks out of concerns about tax avoidance? Recently companies such as Starbucks and Amazon were accused of avoiding paying UK tax. Many people were quite upset about this and people began to boycott those companies involved. From a Buddhist perspective is there any problem with...	If one's intention is to contribute to he upkeeping of tax avoiding companies so that they can earn more money then one should probably avoid buying at those companies since it will create unwholesome kamma for oneself. You can, but due to your personal views and believes, it has nothing to do with Buddhism, It depends...
Does practice build good kamma despite wrong action? I ask this question in the context of one who does wrong action and gets right results anyways, which happens a lot. Someone with a pretty good understanding of Kamma but to my knowledge it doesn't usually work like that. So, wrong action produces right results regul...	The difficulty in practicing right action comes from our misperception of the results of wrong action as being desireable , which is not the same as right .
What kind of mistakes can a new meditator in his/her early 20's avoid? I am currently in my late twenties and I began meditation in my early twenties. I often think that the path that I am on being correct as it is and it has provided it's justification through practice- I am unsure what I will think of me in my thirti...	One could also sign up for a retreat and learn about the meditation-technique in this way. You would be disturbed by thoughts or feelings and might not keep yourself on one point. Consistency in practice is a key point in ones practice - especially in the beginning where the terratory is new.
Are non-Theravada monks allowed to eat after noon, and to use money? What's the history behind this? I am assuming non-Theravada monks eat after noon, and use money. Correct me if I'm wrong. If I'm not wrong, why do the sects differ in this manner? <Q> They differ for any number of reasons. <S> For one, there are at...	Many will eat after noon, despite the injunction not to - it's just called "medicine" instead of a meal!
How do I become a Buddha, the stages of the path? I'm interested to see the process broken down into steps preferably using Theravada theory, all in the context of a summarized "how to". This would range from trying meditation, through all the stages of insight, enlightenment, into and through any other stages, and ...	You should start by leading a moral life, develop mastery over out mind without being a slave to it, then practice Vipassana gain Wisdom.
The Buddha-nature of a dog I keep seeing the following koan: A monk asked Zhàozhōu, "Does a dog have Buddha nature or not?" Zhaozhou said, "Wú". What does this mean and why is it important? More specifically: Does "Wú" mean "no" in this context, or does it mean "the question doesn't make sense and therefore cannot...	Zhaozhou's answer is an attempt to shake that monk out of his smaller way of thinking and point him instead to mu - the true essence of Zen.
Homeless but not a monk Is it frowned upon in Buddhism to undertake homelessness without ordination? Let us presume that part of this homelessness also includes a focus on meditation, with mind and body able to work for oneself. <Q> No there are many people who do it. <S> It is accepted by Buddhists with respect. <S> T...	If you just want to do intensive meditation I think you would quickly find homelessness (especially homelessness without the support of a sangha) was more of a hindrance than a help. It's frowned upon generally in Buddhism to practice on your own if suitable teachers are available.
What is the different between Nirodha Samapatti and Phala Samapatti? What is the different between Nirodha Samapatti and Phala Samapatti? Are they the same? What are the distinctions between them? <Q> In this attainment there is a special kind of consciousness present called Lokuttara-citta. <S> In contrast to this, ...	Phalasamapatti is a meditative state in which a person is absorbed in Nibbana itself.
Are there Buddhist traditions without monks? Are there any traditions without an associated monastic community or even where the monastic element is significantly minimised. I practice with the Triratna Buddhist community and the blurring of the monastic and lay elements is a particular feature. I was wondering if ...	Within the bound of Theravada line of thought you cannot have a Buddhist order with no monks.
Has anybody tried meditating forehead to forehead? Or communicated with others via meditation? I have been trying to hunt far and wide to see if anyone in the internet world has attempted meditating with someone else by connecting your foreheads together? As discussed in a previous thread about the significance of tou...	In Buddhist meditation you have to do it more in seclusion (Sunyagara, under a tree, etc).
Is the force of Kamma like a God for Buddhists? We know Buddhism doesn't have a creator God like most religions, however there is the law of Kamma, a law we cannot see and also we cannot prove, in other words, a law that requires faith and cannot be measured like gravity or electromagnetism. Once a Theravada senior mo...	Karma is not some kind of transcendental (otherwordly) force.
Ordination and support from parents If one intends to ordain, say in Thailand, and one lives in India - would it be right/moral to ask support from one's parents (since one is not yet ready/able to support oneself)? <Q> You should ask for support according to their faith and ability. <S> Normally supporters and family ...	If they support you then it is OK. There could be a problem with receiving donations from your parents if you gave them money beforehand.
What was the first Buddhist text to be translated into English? What was the first Buddhist text to be translated into English? When was it translated and by whom? Was it reasonably available to those interested and did it have much of an impact within academic circles and perhaps to the wider culture? <Q> UPDATE : <...	As to the first notable translation, I would give this honorary title to Max Muller's translation of Dhammappada , first published in 1869 , later included in Muller's Sacred Books of the East series published around 1880s . (London, 1831) by Charles Fried. It was translated from Latin to Middle English in the 15th cen...
Mixing Buddhism with other religions The predominant opinion of people with a lot of experience with practising Buddhism seems to be that there are irreconcilable gaps between Buddhism and Christianity and that it makes no sense to be a Buddhist and a Christian at the same time. On the other hand, they don't seem to ...	Buddhism in itself is a philosophy, like the Tao, and it is wholly accepting of all religions. For me, the most important point is this: Buddhism can make you a better human being, the practice of the Buddha's teachings (Dhamma) can give you valuable tools to improve your life and the life of people around you, meditat...
How can one overcome agitation developed by not sitting regularly? This one is for the lay meditators. Although i think there is a component of sloth and torpor involved in the situation. There are other factors too. At times for me breakage of a sila makes it hard for me to sit. And if this cycle is not broken it ca...	Start small, exercise for six months until it becomes a habit, then practice for 10 years, one life, next life -- and you will have a different temperament. Your problems with sitting are due to your body-and-mind not being stable enough; irritability makes even regular activities difficult, let alone sitting meditatio...
What language did the Buddha speak? Do we know, or have a good idea, what language the historical Buddha (Siddhārtha Gautama) spoke. I've just assumed it is Pali but a moment's thought tells me this is probably wrong since the Pali canon was written hundreds of years after the Buddha died. If we know what language he s...	According to the commentary it seems Buddha's dialect is Pali. Some believe that there was mutual intelligibility to some of the dialects or languages.
What is the difference between Karma and Sanskara Karma and Sanskara seam to be very much related. How are they related and how are they different. <Q> It seems that sanskaras are the precursors that lead to karma http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskara <S> "In Hinduism sanskaras or samskaras (Sanskrit संस्कार meaning im...	Karma refers to volitional acts which is only a subset of Saṅkhāra.
Meditation techniques for beginners? As a beginning meditator, the techniques I typically use are: Counting breaths, restarting at 10 (learned in Japan). Envisioning, with warm feelings, all of my friends and family around me in a large circle (learned in Florida). Attempting to feel the minute sensations from each...	To start with just try to see the in out breath. You should be very careful as not to have after thoughts or form perceptions which slip past your attention. Stand up with eyes closed and slowly rock back and forth while focusing on the centers of the feet.
Did Buddhism ever go through a period of relatively high violence? Catholicism/Christianity had the dark ages and the inquisition in which 'heretics' were prosecuted with violence. One could claim that Islam is currently in a period of high violence. Did Buddhism ever go through such a period? <Q> Well, Buddhists cou...	Buddhism would have gone through some violent times in the Malay Peninsula also as it was predominantly Buddhist before.

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