January 2009 « Daily Buddhism

Why Do Buddhists Pray To Idols?

By Brian Schell, on January 27th, 2009%

Question:

I was rared in the Monotheistic traditions and my question is basic. It concerns iconography and the reason why Buddhist pray to idols.

Arguably, Buddha himself was suspicious of being venerated. And it would be nice to know how contemporary Buddhist rationalise the practice.

It is intriguing to see the Tibetans do their prostrations and in manner not . . . → Read More: Why Do Buddhists Pray To Idols?

Buddhist Temples

By Brian Schell, on January 26th, 2009%

Question:

Hello, I am a teenager who was raised a Catholic and now looks towards Buddhism. My question is, is there a specific day to go to temple? Much like the Christian Sunday masses? Also, can you please tell me what goes on at a temple? If I visit one, what goes on during a ceremony? . . . → Read More: Buddhist Temples

Weekly Buddhism Issue 16

By Brian Schell, on January 25th, 2009%

Issue #16 ($1.25)

Contents of This Issue:

Great Expectations w/Responses
Q&A: Insults & Quips w/Responses
The Man on the Subway w/Responses
My Heart Burns Like Fire
Koan: A Mother’s Advice w/Responses
Jataka Tales XVI: Granny’s Blackie
Koan: Do Not Think Good, Do Not Think Not-Good

10 Pages. Buy it now . . . → Read More: Weekly Buddhism Issue 16

Podcast Episode 41: Great Expectations

By Brian Schell, on January 24th, 2009%

Podcast Episode 41: Great Expectations

Welcome back, this is Daily Buddhism audio show number forty-one. My name is Brian Schell, and I am the your host for the show. You can find the text as well as all links mentioned in this program and all past episodes on the website at www.dailybuddhism.com.

Announcements:

No special announcements this week, but . . . → Read More: Podcast Episode 41: Great Expectations

My Heart Burns Like Fire

By Brian Schell, on January 23rd, 2009%

My Heart Burns Like Fire

Soyen Shaku, the first Zen teacher to come to America, said: “My heart burns like fire but my eyes are as cold as dead ashes.” He made the following rules which he practiced every day of his life.

In the morning before dressing, light incense and meditate.

Retire at a . . . → Read More: My Heart Burns Like Fire