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"Islam is a Peaceful Religion" - Dalai Lama
'The Dalai Lama said Sunday that "it's totally wrong, unfair" to call Islam a violent religion.
The Tibetan spiritual leader, appearing at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, offered a defense of Islam in response to a question about the rise of violent religious fundamentalism. He added that he has made a point of reaching out to Muslims since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
The Dalai Lama arrived at Lehigh on Thursday for a series of talks on a 600-year-old Buddhist text. He took a break Sunday to lecture on "Generating a Good Heart," and afterward took questions from Lehigh President Alice P. Gast that had been submitted in advance by the public.
Asked why so many Americans are depressed and anxious, he joked: "I'm the wrong person to ask. You should ask Americans." Then he answered that U.S. society is too competitive and that people always want "something more, something more, something more."
The Dalai Lama, who attracted a capacity crowd of about 5,000, did not mention next month's Beijing Olympics. The Chinese government has demanded that the Dalai Lama express support for the Olympics and repudiate efforts to disrupt them as a condition for continued talks.
China has governed Tibet since the 1950s. The Dalai Lama, who fled to India amid a failed uprising in 1959, has said he wants some form of autonomy that would allow Tibetans to freely practice their culture, language and religion.
The Dalai Lama, who turned 73 on July 6, said Sunday that he's looking forward to "complete retirement." He joked that he's now considered a "senior most respected adviser" to Tibet's government in exile.
He is scheduled to speak at the Kimmel Center in Philadelphia on Wednesday.' 'The Dalai Lama said Sunday that "it's totally wrong, unfair" to call Islam a violent religion. ... more -
Dalai Lama defends Islam as peaceful
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Dalai Lama said Sunday that "it's totally wrong, unfair" to call Islam a violent religion.
The Tibetan spiritual leader, appearing at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, offered a defense of Islam in response to a question about the rise of violent religious fundamentalism. He added that he has made a point of reaching out to Muslims since the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
The Dalai Lama arrived at Lehigh on Thursday for a series of talks on a 600-year-old Buddhist text. He took a break Sunday to lecture on "Generating a Good Heart," and afterward took questions from Lehigh President Alice P. Gast that had been submitted in advance by the public.
Asked why so many Americans are depressed and anxious, he joked: "I'm the wrong person to ask. You should ask Americans." Then he answered that U.S. society is too competitive and that people always want "something more, something more, something more."
BETHLEHEM, Pa. - The Dalai Lama said Sunday that "it's totally wrong, unfair" to call Islam a violent religion. ... more -
In Japan, Buddhism May Be Dying Out
OGA, JAPAN— The Japanese have long taken an easygoing, buffetlike approach to religion, ringing out the old year at Buddhist temples and welcoming the new year, several hours later, at Shinto shrines. Weddings hew to Shinto rituals or, just as easily, to Christian ones.
When it comes to funerals, though, the Japanese have traditionally been inflexibly Buddhist — so much so that Buddhism in Japan is often called “funeral Buddhism,” a reference to the religion’s former near-monopoly on the elaborate, and lucrative, ceremonies surrounding deaths and memorial services.
But that expression also describes a religion that, by appearing to cater more to the needs of the dead than to those of the living, is losing its standing in Japanese society.
“That’s the image of funeral Buddhism: that it doesn’t meet people’s spiritual needs,” said Ryoko Mori, the chief priest at the 700-year-old Zuikoji Temple here in northern Japan. “In Islam or Christianity, they hold sermons on spiritual matters. But in Japan nowadays, very few Buddhist priests do that.”
Mr. Mori, 48, the 21st head priest of the temple, was unsure whether it would survive into the tenure of a 22nd.
“If Japanese Buddhism doesn’t act now, it will die out,” he said. “We can’t afford to wait. We have to do something.” OGA, JAPAN— The Japanese have long taken an easygoing, buffetlike approach to religion, ringing out the old year at Buddhist temples a... more -
Heaven On Earth
To long for most minds and short attention spans, but if you have any interest in Permaculture concepts then watch the full 25minutes.
HEAVEN ON EARTH
a film by Bruce Weaver
SYNOPSIS
Heaven One Earth
What images do we hold in mind for the future of humankind, and the planet? At present, we are bombarded with images of global climate change, worldwide food and water shortages and catastrophic wars. Heaven On Earth is a video travelogue documenting the work of permaculturist Rico Zook. Join us as we travel with Rico to the Northern most part of India in the shade of the towering Himalayas, to glimpse the future through Rico's eyes and learn what permaculture is, and what it has to offer both humanity and the planet. Is it possible we might find heaven on earth here, and now? Watch and see.
To long for most minds and short attention spans, but if you have any interest in Permaculture concepts then watch the full 25minutes.... more -
He was taken into Chinese custody in 1995
He was called the world's youngest political prisoner when, as a six-year-old, he was taken into Chinese custody in 1995. He has not been seen or heard of since. He was called the world's youngest political prisoner when, as a six-year-old, he was taken into Chinese custody in 1995. He has not b... more
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The Karmapa Controversy, Who is the real Karmapa?
The Karmapa lineage is the most ancient tulku lineage in Tibetan Buddhism, pre-dating the Dalai Lama lineage by more than two centuries. The lineage is an important one as the Karmapa is traditionally the head of the Karma Kagyu school, one of the four main schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Unfortunately the recognition of the 17th Karmapa has become mired in controversy. Since the death of the 16th Karmapa in 1981 two different candidates have come forward, neither of which has gained universal recognition as the true Karmapa.
From: wikipedia.org
In 1981, the 16th Karmapa—leading lama of the Karma Kagyu branch of Tibetan Buddhism—died. In a highly biased but fascinating account, first-time author Curren describes the controversy over the Karmapa's succession that still rages today. After the 16th Karmapa's death, two different factions arose, each naming a different boy the 17th Karmapa: Ogyen Trinley, supported by several Karma Kagyu leaders and the Dalai Lama, and Trinley Thaye, whom the second-ranking Kama Kagyu lama, Shamar Rinpoche, believes to be the true Karmapa. While most previous accounts of the controversy have favored Ogyen Trinley, Curren—who acknowledges early on that he is a student of Shamar Rinpoche—believes Ogyen Trinley to be a fraud. The Karmapa lineage is the most ancient tulku lineage in Tibetan Buddhism, pre-dating the Dalai Lama lineage by more than two centurie... more -
Change Your Mind Day 2008 BPF:TB
CYMD 2008 was organized by the Buddhist Peace Fellowship of Tampa Bay. Each year we bring together the various traditions of Buddhists from around Tampa Bay to share their insights, teachings, and practices with the general public.
In 2008 we returned to North Pinellas and hosted the vent right on the water. The presenters included Theravadan monastics, Nichiren, Chinese Buddhism, Zen, and several Tibetan lineages.
Please visit http://www.floridanastuff.com/BPF/bpf... to learn more about us and how to get active in socially engaged Buddhism!
Buddhism Dharma Florida meditation OneTrueMedia Petersburg Saint Tampa CYMD 2008 was organized by the Buddhist Peace Fellowship of Tampa Bay. Each year we bring together the various traditions of Buddhist... more -
Bait Fish Buddhists // Comment Picked for TV
Thanks to rebot who uploaded his comments on the pod, "Bait Fish Buddhists." After you hear what he has to say, take a look at the pod by clicking the link below:
http://current.com/items/88859212_bait_fish_buddhists
Thanks to rebot who uploaded his comments on the pod, "Bait Fish Buddhists." After you hear what he has to say, take a look at the pod... more -
Declaration of Interdependence
The Declaration of Independence of the United States says, “All men [and women] are created equal.” In Buddhism, the corollary teaching is that within each of us there is innate goodness and wholeness. Actualization of these ideals is only possible in a life-affirming society. Therefore, it is our responsibility to create the social conditions and political structures that enable people to live with dignity, honor, safety, and sufficient resources.
From a Buddhist perspective, the “three poisons” of greed, hatred, and delusion cloud our minds and skew our actions:
• Greed is the driving force in a consumer society that supports undemocratic corporations that sell us things we don't need. Greed is also at the root of a system in which people, including government officials, are corrupted by the seemingly insatiable appetite for money and power. Looking deeply, we see that nothing can be hoarded, accumulated, or held on to. We understand, too, that those things we take from others that are not freely given—resources, labor, wealth, votes, and more—are the birthright of all people. All people have the right to decide how these resources are used.
• Hatred gives birth to war, prejudice, and repression. Those forces tend to perpetuate themselves in a ceaseless cycle of violence and militarism. As Buddhism and other faith traditions affirm, “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love.” Hatred is rooted in separateness; compassion is rooted in connection. Which way would we wish to turn?
• Delusion, or ignorance, stems from our tendency not to see reality just as it is. We are schooled in delusion by systems of indoctrination and mass media that condition us from early childhood to buy into the false promises of consumerism and American exceptionalism. Delusion is the driving force evident in our ever-more centralized media.
And finally, we do not have government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Rather, government has become a holding company for corporate control. When we fail to point out the unraveling of our democratic system, and—as the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina made clear—the way in which so many citizens lack even the necessities for a life of self-respect, we have fallen prey to the delusion of separateness, and we disempower ourselves and others.
The current political and economic system is tainted by these poisons, which necessarily reinforce each other. When we spend many billions of dollars on a foreign war premised on lies and distortions, we have no money to buy food, medicine, and first-class education for the poor at home…or for displaced peoples in need around the world. So a spiral of anger, resentment, need and confusion spins on and on.
And yet we are called to participate in this very system, even with all its injustices and inequalities. The task before us requires presence of mind, awareness, patience, and perseverance. We wish to be part of a polity that is genuinely representative and fully participatory.
All of us—whatever our faith, political affiliation, cultural background, or economic status—have the same wish for safety and well-being. We may agree or disagree with each other. We may approve or disapprove of a given candidate or representative’s positions. But in these decisive times, when so much is at stake, we must act with courage.
Only by working together can we renew our world. Only by working together can we insure that the U.S. will fulfill its promise of liberty and justice for all. In our hearts we long to see this vision born anew. The Declaration of Independence of the United States says, “All men [and women] are created equal.” In Buddhism, the corollary teachin... more -
"Words of intent" effect water crystals
Research From Dr. Masaru Emoto, says that human thoughts are directed at water before it is frozen, images of the resulting water crystals will be beautiful or ugly depending upon whether the thoughts were positive or negative. Emoto claims this can be achieved through prayer, music or by attaching written words to a container of water. Since 1999 Emoto has published several volumes of a work titled Messages from Water, which contains photographs of water crystals next to essays and "words of intent". Research From Dr. Masaru Emoto, says that human thoughts are directed at water before it is frozen, images of the resulting water crys... more
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Black Market Tigers Linked to Thai Temple
It's the hottest part of the day at a forest monastery in western Thailand, and tourists are led by the hand, one by one, into the beating sun to pet chained tigers and smile for the camera.
Every day at this unusual "Tiger Temple," as many as 800 tourists pay 300 Thai baht (9 U.S. dollars) each for their chance to interact with the endangered big cats.
The tigers—several of which were born at the compound—live alongside monks and volunteers in what one temple handler called a beautiful blend of Buddhism and conservation.
Though the remote monastery near the Burmese border is considered a must-see by some tourists, it's what the public doesn't see that has prompted a growing chorus of wildlife groups, both internationally and in Thailand, to call attention to its conservation missteps. (See Thailand map.)
Not only does the temple fail to preserve dwindling tigers as advertised, experts say, a new report released today by the U.K.-based conservation group, Care for the Wild International (CWI), asserts that the monastery has been trading the animals illegally with a tiger farm in neighboring Laos.
"What we feel is important is that people know this is not real conservation—people are being fooled. They are exploiting wildlife," said Guna Subramaniam, the Southeast Asia director for CWI.
CWI conducted its investigation between 2005 and 2008 with the aid of people who enlisted as temple volunteers. Subramaniam also visited the monastery in 2006 and 2007.
The temple staff dismisses any involvement in illegal trade. It's the hottest part of the day at a forest monastery in western Thailand, and tourists are led by the hand, one by one, into the bea... more -
Religious Extremist Roomies - God Loves ME Best! - Volume 1
Extended trailer for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! The producers introduce the cast to their new home while ridiculing them from behind the scenes. Starring Allegra Cohen, Khrystyne Haje, Eric Kirchberger, Nasry Malak, Michelle Maryk, Ron McClary, Ann Scobie, and Sam Rodd.
http://www.godlovesmebest.com
http://www.youtube.com/godlovesmebest Extended trailer for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! The producers introduce the cast to their new home while ridiculing them fro... more -
Witches, Christian Porn, & Prayer-God Loves ME Best! - Vol 2
Extended promo for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! in which the cast members get to know each other a little bit. Volume 2 of the God Loves ME Best! series. The roomies become acquainted. The Wiccan explains Witchcraft, The Christian covers his porn with a bible, The ladies discuss the sexual potential of their male counterparts, and the guys argue over prayer space and spiritual practices.
http://www.godlovesmebest.com
http://www.youtube.com/godlovesmebest Extended promo for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! in which the cast members get to know each other a little bit. Volume 2 of th... more -
The Jewish (Zionist) Section - God Loves ME Best! - Volume 6
Extended trailer for God Loves ME Best! The producers Todd and Lisa enforce the boundaries of the prayer area. Starring Ron McClary, Allegra Cohen, Michelle Maryk, and Sam Rodd.
http://www.godlovesmebest.com
http://www.youtube.com/godlovesmebest Extended trailer for God Loves ME Best! The producers Todd and Lisa enforce the boundaries of the prayer area. Starring Ron McClary, A... more -
Gay Preachers & Crystal Meth - God Loves ME Best! - Volume 7
Extended trailer for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! Starring Allegra Cohen, Khrystyne Haje, Eric Kirchberger, Nasry Malak, Michelle Maryk, Ron McClary, Ann Scobie, and Sam Rodd.
http://www.youtube.com/godlovesmebest
http://www.godlovesmebest.com
Extended trailer for the new TV series God Loves ME Best! Starring Allegra Cohen, Khrystyne Haje, Eric Kirchberger, Nasry Malak, Miche... more -
The Tibetans evolve their culture in exile including Miss Tibet
The importance of Tibet is what it has come to represent today through the culture it has created and evolved in exile. Visually and Respectfully Yours, Joe Mickey and Sazzy Varga The importance of Tibet is what it has come to represent today through the culture it has created and evolved in exile. Visually and R... more
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Meet Jamyang Norbu
Westerners rarely get a look inside the Tibetan colony in southern India that is the home of Jamyang Norbu, a Tibetan monk living in exile and photographing his life for The Tibetan Photo Project. http://www.tibetanphotoproject.com
The colony at Mungod is the home of 11,000 exiled Tibetans.
Visually and Respectfully, Joe Mickey and Sazzy Varga Westerners rarely get a look inside the Tibetan colony in southern India that is the home of Jamyang Norbu, a Tibetan monk living in e... more -
DMT the spirit molecule tryptamine of Jesus
Zen Buddhists denounced Dr. Rick Strassman, believing people would link his clinical trials of DMT to Buddhism. Although the negative effects of DMT outweighed the positive insights people gained ... what would you give up to get a glimpse of another realm - isn't that a reward in itself? Unless you're raped by the crocodiles. Zen Buddhists denounced Dr. Rick Strassman, believing people would link his clinical trials of DMT to Buddhism. Although the negative... more
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Drugs Porn And Puppets - On The Next God Loves ME Best!
A look at the future of God Loves ME Best! Starring Allegra Cohen, Khrystyne Haje, Eric Kirchberger, Nasry Malak, Michelle Maryk, Ron McClary, Ann Scobie, and Sam Rodd.
http://www.youtube.com/godlovesmebest
http://www.godlovesmebest.com A look at the future of God Loves ME Best! Starring Allegra Cohen, Khrystyne Haje, Eric Kirchberger, Nasry Malak, Michelle Maryk, Ron ... more -
SPIRITUALITY vs. RELIGION
I did not write this although I do agree with it.
SPIRITUALITY vs. RELIGION:
Spirituality says that God is within us, and that we do not need anyone else to make this particular divine connection for us.
Religion says that we are separated from God, and that we need to communicate with and worship this ascended entity in order to make the divine connection.
Spirituality says that we are free to make choices on our own, and that we must accept personal responsibility for our actions.
Religion says that we must make their choices and act their way, depending upon a given religious denomination's belief systems.
The theme of spirituality is fellowship through the employment of unconditional love.
The theme of religion is fellowship through fear and guilt.
Spirituality does not require us to make donations.
Religion has become a big business.
Spirituality says there is no Hell, no judgment, no angry God, and that we are loved unconditionally.
Religion says there is a Hell, God gets angry and judges us. Therefore, we are not loved unconditionally.
Spirituality says we are free to choose our own path to God.
Religion commands us to do it their way, depending upon a particular religious denomination's beliefs.
Spirituality says we go to God to lighten our burden.
Religion has taught us to fear their God, depending upon a particular religious demonination's beliefs.
Spirituality says we should not be ashamed of our sexuality. Rather, it should be a sacred celebration of love.
Religion has taught us to feel ashamed, guilty and dirty about our sexualty.
Spirituality teaches us to honor and respect Mother Earth.
Religion has told us to "Be thou fruitful, multiply and subdue the Earth." I repeat, "... subdue the Earth."
Spirituality reminds us that we are one with God and one with each other.
Religion teaches disunity and separation which is the opposite of God.
Spirituality says God is within everyone and everything.
Religion says God and His messengers reside in Heaven and that "they" are the only intermediaries for us.
Spirituality says we are born in innocence and purity.
Religion says we are born with sin.
Spirituality teaches that we are on a long spiritual adventure and journey which will ultimately end by reuniting with our Source.
Religion says we have got one life to get it all right, and there is nothing but Heaven or Hell after that.
Spirituality says we are free to express.
Religion, over time, fostered the dreaded inquisition.
Spirituality teaches unconditional love for all.
Religion, over time, fostered the Crusades in which many were killed and slaughtered in the name of God.
Spirituality teaches that we should love one another unconditionally and always honor the rights and choices of others.
Religion treated Native Americans, the Mayans and other indigenous cultures as savage primitives who "must be saved."
Spirituality teaches peace and harmony.
Religion has caused more wars and more killing than any other reason.
Spirituality says respect all living things.
I have never once heard any religion say stop slaughtering millions of trees every year for Christ's birthday.
Spirituality teaches us to have faith in ourselves.
Religion teaches us to have faith in them.
Spirituality says we have all the answers, that we can find them by "going within."
Religion teaches us that it has all the answers and only its answers are the right ones.
Spirituality teaches us to search for the Universal Truths, wherefrom our hearts will tell us when we have found them.
Religion teaches we have no choice but to accept their version of the Truth.
Which one feels better to you? Spirituality or religion?
Go to the depths of your heart for the answer for, indeed, it will never lie to you, my friend. I did not write this although I do agree with it. SPIRITUALITY vs. RELIGION: ... more
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