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~~Chogyam Trungpa and the ko0l kids ~~

The hippies of the 70’s aren’t much different from the hipsters of today. Popular/trending waves during the two decades in America (1970-1980 and 2005-2015) include the use of “mind-expanding drugs”, vegetarian food diets, and a rise in equal rights movements. … Continue reading

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Tantra and the Self

Something that has interested me throughout our study of Tibetan Buddhism is the differing view of the self. While some of the previous philosophers and scholars that we have read have disagreed on some of the more minute and complex … Continue reading

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Was Virupa arrogant or doing what needed to be done?

Early on we learned that Buddha was inspired to share with others what he had learned during his awakening – how suffering was the “fundamental problem of life” and how our suffering could end with an understanding of the four … Continue reading

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Perception and Virupa

The fact that Dharmapala changed his name to Virupa, (which means ugly), could be viewed as a demonstration of his humility. Or this very same act of changing his name could be viewed as shameful, an accurate and literal name, … Continue reading

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Virupa’s Truth

Recognized as “the highest abbot among all…scholars,” Virupa was an acclaimed yogi who lived in seventh- and eighth-century India (Trizin 20, 23). Virupa was known as an important master of the Sakya linage, but his lifestyle and teachings were, at times, … Continue reading

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Tantra & the Two Truths

The readings on Tantra seem particularly antithetical to what we have learned so far, particularly the idea that “the problem lies not in desire per se, but rather in a misdirection of the energy of desire towards objects that lead … Continue reading

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Thoughts on Tantra

As I began to read the Tantra chapter of John ’s Introduction to Tibetan Buddhism, I wondered why and how Tantric Buddhism came into existence in the first place, and was intrigued by the fact that sound historical records of … Continue reading

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How to Stay Relevant for 2,500 Years

During our class debate on the theories of the two truths and two natures by both Tsong Khapa and Go Rampa, there were multiple points and questions about consciousness and karma. Attempting to grapple with both theories and their effect … Continue reading

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Do you want to be a Buddha?

Both Gorampa and Mipam’s understanding of the two truths conclude with the zombie Buddha. Arguing that Tsongkhapa is a nihilist because he and his followers are grasping at the idea of nonexistence, Gorampa claims that when someone is enlightened they … Continue reading

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Zombie Buddha 4evah

What compels me about the idea of Zombie Buddha is the very undesirability of that state. If we, in our attachment-ridden samsaric condition—bogged down with karma and the perception of conventional reality—were able to see Buddhahood as desirable, I would … Continue reading

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