Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche
Projecting the Dharma: Film and the Transmission of Buddhism to the West
A public talk at Yale Law School, New Haven, Connecticut
25 January, 2008
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Technorati: Buddhism Buddha Buddhist Dharma Compassion Wisdom Religion Meditation Zen Philosophy Spirituality Inspiration Peace Insight
I only saw the first 1/3 of the film because we have a fair access policy. This subject "Projecting Buddhism " especially in the west is one my favorite topics. I liked the way Rinpoche said his view or projection changed over the years as he visited America. And how he respects critical Buddhism and the analytical approach that questions authority. I loved his use of the word "anarchy"! I have had many an argument with westerners ( of which i totally am ) about how Buddhism teaches a form of inner anarchy ( not the political anarchy ). A freedom to pursue the truth for yourself, not following leaders and priests who stress rituals. Many Buddhist institutions have been around long enough to have grown moss on them. :) They are clinging to ritual and style and have forgotten the essential message of original Buddhism, that if one turns inward and silences the mind and body, one can find answers to life's deepest questions on their own. A spiritual guide can definitely shorten the path to realization, but of course the person them self has to see the truth on their own. I have a concern for the future of Buddhism in the west. What will be the projection 10-20 years from now? The mantle holders will have passed on, and the children will be of age to seek life's mysterious answers. Will there be a penetrating form of Buddhism in the future? If so it must be true to its' anarchy, of going it alone to find the answers, and not compromising to following a type of Buddhist religion....IMHO
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