Spring 2008 Issue

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Features

Koans for Troubled Times
How do we as Buddhists meet the challenges of our time? One answer, says Joan Sutherland, lies in the teachings of two great Chan masters who lived through one of the most difficult periods in Chinese history.

Training the Heart
If you want to transform the mind, says Ajahn Chah, you must know and transform the heart. But getting there can be very uncomfortable, he warns.

Forum: Does Buddhism Make You Happier?
Andrew Olendzki, Gaylon Ferguson, and Blanche Hartman debate what the Buddha really meant by “the end of suffering.” Introduction by Glenn Wallis.

Vajrayana Unpacked
Khenpo Karthar Rinpoche presents a clear explanation of the view of Vajrayana and its two main practices, generation and completion.

The Road to McLeod Ganj
Kay Larson travels to McLeod Ganj in northern India, home to the Tibetan government in exile and to thousands of Tibetan refugees, for a firsthand look at the challenges facing this exile community.

“Where Is God When Stick Hit Floor?”
Rabbi Rami Shapiro's humorous account of his difficult but ultimately helpful encounters with Sasaki Roshi.

Departments

Commentary - each issue features an editorial written by one of the main teachers in Western Buddhism. Jan Willis: A Professor's Dilemma.

Letters - Email letters to the Editor.

First Thoughts - a collection of short essays to open the journal, by notable teachers and writers

Ask the Teachers - Question: I have just begun meditation practice, and I'm doing it on my own. Without a sangha, is the practice moot? Narayan Liebenson Grady’s answer. Email your practice questions.

Reviews - Zen Ritual, edited by Steven Heine and Dale S. Wright. Reviewed by Norman Fischer. The Cakrasamvara Tantra: A Study and Annotated Translation, by David B. Gray. Reviewed by Roger Jackson. Environmental Ethics in Buddhism, by Pragati Sahni. Reviewed by Stephanie Kaza.

Book Briefs - Alexander Gardner reviews 10 of the latest books on Buddhism

Dharma Dictionary - Mu Soeng defines devaduta.

Centers and Programs - A section highlighting upcoming programs being offered at various centers.

MahaSangha News - the latest news from Buddhist communities across North America, and the world. Email in your community news.

Profile - In this issue: Birken Forest Monastery.

Network Directory - A directory of meditation and yoga centers throughout North America.

Journeys - Donna Kaishu Quesada: Waking Up to OCD

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