Buddhism is often misunderstood; those who investigate its ideas often look for a core set of beliefs to cling to. Just as other religions have gods, Buddhism is treated as having some essential truth to grasp. This makes Buddhism the same religion as western beliefs and philosophy. However, the teachings of the Buddha are never … Read more
Zen Master Dogen writes, ‘To study Buddhism is to study the Self; to study the Self is to forget the Self.’ Who are we? What are We? We are obsessed with finding ourselves. To seek that essence, that fundamental core of what we are. The search for the Self is both illuminating and mystifying. To … Read more
One of the most significant issues with any idea is passing it on to others; how to teach, learn, and to whom. Buddhism recognises what it teaches is not easy to comprehend, so it’s developed many methods to get the message across. Different schools in Buddhism use their own methods. The methods vary, the debates … Read more
Looking back on my path, I can see that the only time I have made progress is facing the fears and beliefs that have held me back. It’s not easy, indeed the most challenging thing you can do. Many things cause my anxiety and depression, but low self-esteem and self-worth are one. I listened far … Read more
This painting is not a big favourite of mine, but it’s important to me because the work is unconventional and what it symbolises. He’s famous because he’s so hyped; the market likes controversial groundbreakers, so he’s radical in one sense. He’s part of today’s love affair with creativity, newness, breaking with tradition, and the future. … Read more
The circle symbol or Enso is popular in Zen Buddhism, but what does it signify or mean? It’s both intriguing and yet confusing, just like Zen Buddhism. Emptiness When we look at an Enso, we think of a circle, but we often forget it is an empty circle. Emptiness or 虚無 Kyomu in Japanese is an essential … Read more