Reflections on Buddhism
Reflections on Buddhism
Selflessness, Identity, and Inclusion: Balancing the Relative and Absolute
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One of the defining characteristics of Buddhism is its explanation of two modes of existence: the absolute and the relative, or conventional. On the absolute level, we say that everything is merely labelled by the mind, nothing exists inherently, or independently. But does this mean that noticing individual characteristics and difference is somehow wrong or misguided? What is the role of identity within this view?

Many people interested in Buddhism, introspection and self-development are also interested in politics, activism and social change. How do we reconcile this work with our view of the ultimate, and unify and integrate the work we do internally with the changes we seek externally? Can we hold this view while still naming and addressing harmful policies in our government, workplaces, or even family structures?

Join our conversation with special guests Ven. Lozang Yönten and Emily Hsu, experienced Buddhist teachers, for this exploration of the balance between the absolute and the relative. With guest host Mathew Divaris.

Show Notes:

The following talks inspired this episode, and are wonderful resources with which to learn more.
(Featuring Emily Hsu and others)
(Featuring Ven. Lozang Yönten)
Emily Hsu, our first guest, has taught widely in our local area, having taught for over a decade at the Bay Area Buddhist Centers.  She completed FPMT’s seven-year Masters Program of Sutra and Tantra at Istituto Lama Tsong Khapa in Italy, a program based on the geshe studies curriculum, graduating in 2004 with high honors. Emily currently divides her time between doing retreat and teaching in the United States and abroad. She emphasizes meditation, emptiness, the good heart, and the practical application of the traditional teachings in daily life.

Venerable Yönten, our second guest, started her intensive Buddhist studies at age 19 at the Chenrezig Institute in Queensland, Australia, and was ordained in 2003. Ven. Yönten studied intensively under Khensur Rinpoche Geshe Tashi Tsering for seven years, completing an advanced Buddhist Studies Program and is authorized to teach at the in-depth level. Ven Yönten has taught widely in Australia, New Zealand, Israel, India and Taiwan — and is now leading classes hosted by Land of Medicine Buddha right here in Soquel.

Ven Yönten can be found online at lozangyonten.wixsite.com/website