Spiritual Teachers

A summary of the main points that a group of senior Western Buddhist agreed upon as a result of the presentations and discussions with His Holiness the Dalai Lama during a conference in Dharamsala, March 1993.

People look to Buddhism to find methods for dealing with difficulties in their lives.

Lama Tsultrim Allione discusses the practice of feeding your demons, the challenges of being a Buddhist parent, and pilgrimage as a Dharma practice.

Study Buddhism met with Venerable Guo Huei, newly-appointed Abbot President of Dharma Drum Mountain, to discuss Chan Buddhism, the idea of Pure Lands, and the mechanics of cause and effect.

Charok Lama discusses how to stay calm in a busy world, the Tibetan tulku system, and the importance of understanding the fact that death will certainly come to everyone.

Not all spiritual teachers are properly qualified. Firm action with a clear and compassionate mind is the key to dealing with situations of abuse.

Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche discusses the Bön tradition, dream yoga, and the power of mantras.

Mingyur Rinpoche talks about overcoming his struggle with panic attacks, the utmost importance of awareness, and how to use appreciation and gratitude to live a joyful life.

The Tibetan word “damtsig,” “samaya” in Sanskrit, means “close bond.” It refers to practices that create a close bond between us and a Buddha-figure or our spiritual teacher.

We practice this meditation in order to inspire and uplift ourselves to the state of our spiritual teacher inseparable from Avalokiteshvara, by joining our good qualities with theirs.