Summer 2008 Issue

Available May 15^th on newsstands and by subscription.

Features

Finding the Perfect Balance
Arhat vs Bodhisattva: Ajahn Amaro suggests how we can transcend the debate between Theravadans and Mahayanists over the true ideal of Buddhist practice.

The Karmapa in America
The Seventeenth Karmapa is one of the most important figures in Tibetan Buddhism, now making his historic first visit to the United States. Barry Boyce reports on the young lama’s dramatic life and his responsibilities as holder of the Karmapa lineage.

On Becoming Karmapa
An exclusive interview with the Seventeenth Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, by Melvin McLeod.

The Power of Unbearable Compassion
When we can no longer bear the suffering of sentient beings, says the Seventeenth Karmapa, we unleash our full potential to help others and ourselves.

Burning With the Fire of Shingon
Richard Payne is one of the few Westerners to undergo the one hundred days of training required to become a Shingon priest. He takes us inside his journey and this little-known esoteric tradition of Japanese Buddhism.

Forum: How to Work with Emotions
Why is it so hard to get a grip on our emotions, even after years of meditating? Sharon Salzberg, John Tarrant, Judith Simmer-Brown, and The Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche shed light on what Buddhism has to say about relating effectively to our emotions.

Grace Under Pressure
Alan Senauke reports from Burma on the ongoing repression following the military regime’s brutal crackdown last fall and the unbreakable spirit of the monks who refuse to be silenced.

Departments

Commentary - each issue features an editorial written by one of the main teachers in Western Buddhism. David Loy: Adapt or Die.

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: How do I know if I’m having a moment of realization or if I’m just deluding myself (still in ego)? Geshe Tenzin Wangyal Rinpoche’s answer. Email your practice questions.

Reviews - Democracy’s Dharma, by Richard Madsen. Reviewed by Christopher Queen. The Collected Poems of Philip Whalen, edited by Michael Rothenberg. Reviewed by Norman Fischer.

Book Briefs - Alexander Gardner reviews 8 of the latest books on Buddhism

Dharma Dictionary - Steven Heine defines koan

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

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

Journeys - Ben Howard: My Unexpected Teacher

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