Explore every episode of the podcast Learn Buddhism with Alan Peto
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 71 - Ullambana and Hungry Ghosts Festivals | 18 Aug 2024 | 00:28:19 | |
Two seemingly unrelated festivals have a Buddhist connection: The Hungry Ghosts Festival and the Ullambana Festival (also called Sangha Day). Both go back to the time of the Buddha where he gave instruction to one of his most revered disciples on how to help his mother who had passed away and was in the hungry ghosts realm. We celebrate today using the same instruction as the Buddha: support the sangha (monastic community) as way to generate and dedicate merit to our loved ones who have passed away and may be in the hungry ghosts realm. It also helps us built compassion, generosity/giving, and loving kindness - all key Buddhist qualities. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/ullambana-hungry-ghosts/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 70 - Blessings vs Merits in Buddhism | 09 Aug 2024 | 00:27:26 | |
Blessings are a beautiful and important part of Buddhism, but they can often be confused with merits. Learn about what blessings are, how they are invoked, and how to integrate into your Buddhist practice. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 61 - Building a Buddhist Altar | 12 Apr 2024 | 00:29:46 | |
Buddhist altars are an important part of Buddhist practice. Let's explore why they are important, what they do, how we build them, and where to place them. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 60 - The Most Popular Bodhisattva in Buddhism (Avalokiteśvara) | 05 Apr 2024 | 00:28:58 | |
The most popular Bodhisattva is Avalokiteśvara (Guan Yin, Kannon, etc.). Because they are known as the Bodhisattva of Compassion and can be called upon, you see Avalokiteśvara as the one Bodhisattva that most Buddhists know and love. Get an introduction to this Bodhisattva in my latest episode!
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| 59 - Buddhism Questions and Answers from Listeners | 22 Mar 2024 | 00:27:03 | |
I'm answering YOUR questions about Buddhism in this episode! Recently I asked on my social media if anyone had questions about Buddhism and here are a few of those questions that I answered. Be on the lookout for me asking again or simply message me from my website. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:30 Do Monastics Have a Better Chance at Nirvana Over Laypersons? 05:13 Buddhism and Vegetarian? 12:10 Westerners Focus on Vipassana [Meditation] Only? 16:55 Bodhisattvas Real? 24:34 Four Heavenly Kings Only in Chinese Buddhism?
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| 58 - Dependent Origination ("Causes and Conditions") in Buddhism | 02 Mar 2024 | 00:16:29 | |
What did the Buddha "awaken" to 2,600 years ago? It was "Dependent Origination"! This teaching is so fundamental to Buddhism, that it is where all the other things we focus on, such as karma, rebirth, five aggregates/skandhas, not self, etc., come from. Learn more about Dependent Origination in this episode!
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| 57 - 12 Month New Year Buddhist Practice | 27 Jan 2024 | 00:29:59 | |
Want to try something special for your Buddhist practice this year? Mix in a monthly focus that compliments your daily practice! Join me in incorporating the Threefold Training throughout the year and be exposed to different Buddhist practices. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:30 The Eightfold Path & Threefold Training 02:00 The 12 Month Plan 03:27 Wisdom 11:26 Conduct & Morality 19:00 Concentration 28:12 Conclusion Get the 12 Month Practice Graphic: https://alanpeto.gumroad.com/l/BuddhismGraphics Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 57 - Practicing Holidays as a Western Buddhist | 23 Dec 2023 | 00:18:51 | |
Can a Western Buddhist participate in Western holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving? What about Buddhist or country specific holidays? Let's explore in this episode! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:05 Western Buddhism and Western holidays 00:30 should I engage in Western holidays? 01:22 finding Buddhism in western holidays 01:55 the path as a Buddhist with western holidays 03:15 Buddhist qualities, beliefs, ethics 04:00 engaging in the world as it is 06:07 going to church 08:40 doing complimentary activities 08:59 what about Thanksgiving or 4th of July? 11:54 you don't have to be the outlier 12:44 Buddhist and country/culture specific holidays 16:25 Conclusion Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 56 - Live Like the Buddha | 10 Dec 2023 | 00:29:13 | |
How can you, as a lay-Buddhist, "be like The Buddha" in your daily life? Here are my five observations about the Buddha and his life that we can incorporate into our life! 00:00 - Introduction 05:00 - Mindfulness 10:18 - Generosity 13:08 - Precepts 18:00 - Compassion 21:22 - Concentration 25:18 - Conclusion Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 55 - The Super Buddha | 16 Oct 2023 | 00:38:42 | |
Did you know the Buddha was "super"? He had supernatural and supranormal abilities. But this was something he didn't see as central to Buddhism, but as a consequence of meditative concentration. Yet, it is a key part of skillful means in Buddhism where the Buddha (and also Buddhas and Bodhisattvas) used these abilities in many ways to aid others with the path in Buddhism and achieving liberation. Learn in this episode why these abilities are important and what they mean to Buddhism!
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast
Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
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| 54 - The Heart Sutra | 10 Sep 2023 | 00:39:02 | |
The most chanted, studied, and copied sutra in the Buddhist world is the Heart Sutra. Found in most traditions that follow Mahayana Buddhism (the path of the Bodhisattva) chant this sutra daily. It teaches the profound nature of Prajna or supreme wisdom into the nature of "emptiness" and the teaching of not-self so that fear is ended, enlightenment achieved, and Nirvana realized. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 53 - The Bodhisattva Path | 12 Aug 2023 | 00:34:01 | |
Mahayana Buddhism makes up the largest branch of Buddhism, and they follow the "Bodhisattva Path". What is that and why is it so important to them? A Bodhisattva is an enlightened being that practices for themselves and others and makes great vows to eventually become a Buddha. It provided a way for all people, not just monastics, to actively progress on the Buddhist path. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhism-hard-times/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaim | |||
| 69 - Buddhism Questions & Answers #3 | 19 Jul 2024 | 00:26:43 | |
The third installment of questions asked by you! - "How can I integrate the practice with my day-to-day life as a westerner?" - "Can I become a Buddhist if I drink or smoke socially?" - "How can you create karma with outflows?" - "Is it ok to mix Buddhist traditions, I was told it's best to stick to one, but I follow two." Have a question for a future episode? Or a topic? Reply to this podcast on Spotify, or send me a message on alanpeto.com, or via social media. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 52 - Impermanence in Buddhism | 08 Jul 2023 | 00:29:33 | |
Impermanence in Buddhism is so important and central to our practice that we can't ignore it. However, it is also a very hard concept to understand. The Buddha essentially said that all conditioned things (that includes you and me) are every changing, impermanent, and interdependent on other things to exist. Because our existence is temporary in nature, thus impermanence, it is of the nature to be dukkha or suffering. This continual forced rebirth is the problem. But, when we fundamentally understand impermanence and our impermanent nature (and that of other things) we can be freed from the Three Fires/Poisons that create karma, force continued rebirth. Then can we reside in our true state of Nirvana and no longer have forced rebirth - breaking the cycle. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/understanding-impermanence/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 51 - Repentance in Buddhism | 19 Jun 2023 | 00:19:41 | |
Do Buddhists "repent"? Yes! And it's not what you think. Repentance in Buddhism is a fundamental part of Buddhist practice because it helps us "get out" the misdeed/transgression of the five precepts we created so that we can understand why, ask for help, and set an aspiration of action and cultivation of good deeds. This is important because morality/conduct is part of the Buddha's teachings and essential for enlightenment. As human beings, we sometimes go "off the path" in Buddhism and as we repent, we make ourselves aware of that so we can prevent it in the future. It's a wholesome practice that is firmly rooted in Buddhism. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 50 - Buddhism Misconceptions (Part 2) | 23 May 2023 | 00:22:18 | |
Check out episode three (3) of this podcast for the first part! In this new episode, I talk about more misconceptions you may have heard about Buddhism in the West. Here are the misconceptions covered in this episode: "The Buddha was just a regular guy", "There are no gods in Buddhism", "The Pali Canon in Theravada is the oldest", "Zen is not part of Mahayana", and "There is only one Buddha". Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 49 - The Three Fires of Buddhism | 15 May 2023 | 00:28:54 | |
One of the most important teachings in Buddhism is that of the "Three Fires" or "Three Poisons" of greed, anger, and ignorance. Why? Because it is the cause of our unwholesome karma keeps us trapped in the cycle of rebirth, which the Buddha said is Dukkha ("suffering"). The absence of the Three Fires is Nirvana...our true natural state and the goal of all Buddhists. Learn more in this episode! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 48 - Prayer in Buddhism | 17 Apr 2023 | 00:28:00 | |
Hundreds of millions of Buddhist pray. But why? And more importantly, why should you pray as part of your Buddhist practice?
Prayer in Buddhism is not the same as in other religions where you might be praying to a creator God or other being to have forgiveness, worship, or help. Instead, Buddhist prayer has many components and uses, one of which is showing devotion, respect, love, and reverence for our enlightened teacher(s) such as a Buddha or Bodhisattva. Just as if we were in front of the Buddha 2,600 years ago, prayer connects us at a deeper level with our teachers, and with the Buddhanature that is within us. If done sincerely and consistently, prayer can be a welcomed and important part of your Buddhist practice that helps transform your karma and build morality/conduct, gain wisdom, and is a concentration practice.
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast
Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
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| 47 - Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Buddhism (Does AI Have Buddhanature?) | 04 Apr 2023 | 00:20:41 | |
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is capturing everyone's attention at the moment. From ChatGPT to Microsoft's Bing chat and Co-Pilot, to Google Bard. It can seemingly be like talking to a real person who then gives you answers or helps you with things. But can AI ever become a sentient being and become enlightened, or become a Buddha? "Does AI have Buddha nature?!". I explore that question in this episode and my opinion on it. I'll also talk about what AI could possibly do for us in Buddhism - if used correctly.
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast
Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer
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| 47 - Observance Days Practice in Buddhism | 28 Mar 2023 | 00:22:44 | |
Buddhist practice isn't confined to a daily practice or going to the temple. There are "Observance Days" in numerous traditions where lay-Buddhists engage in practices that align themselves more with the monastic lifestyle and advance their development. This includes taking the Eight Precepts, vegetarian meals, or even fasting. Learn why Buddhists engage in Observance Days and what it means! Alan's Daily Buddhist Practice Guide on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3LTxbE8 Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 46 - Daily Practice & Meditation - Interview with Bodhipaksa | 21 Mar 2023 | 00:31:00 | |
I've known meditation teacher Bodhipaksa for several years. He was one of the first to use the internet when it was "new" to teach others about meditation when there wasn't a group or temple nearby. He has also spread knowledge about what the Buddha really said (by dispelling fake Buddha quotes online). With his latest book release, I interviewed him in this episode to help you learn more about mantras, recitations/chanting, visualization, meditation, and some interesting insights about the Buddha and meditation!
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 45 - Do You Have to Believe in Everything Buddhism Believes In? | 14 Mar 2023 | 00:28:04 | |
If you are new to Buddhism, there are plenty of things in Buddhism that make you question if it is real or not. But they are clearly part of the religion. And, different traditions may have various beliefs. So, do you need to believe in everything "Buddhism" believes in? This is one of the most asked questions and concerns for Westerners coming into Buddhism. As I'll talk about in this episode, it's OK to not believe in everything right away, but please be respectful. We don't always understand everything (and often how they help you understand Buddhist concepts and develop!), and that's OK! Being OK with not knowing and understanding everything right away can be challenging, but an important part of engaging with the religion. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 44 - Virtual Buddhism & Venerable Tri Dao Interview | 20 Feb 2023 | 00:36:11 | |
How do you practice Buddhism when there is no Buddhist temple or monastics where you live? Can technology and "virtual" Buddhism be an option? In this episode, I talked with Venerable Tri Dao, a Buddhist monk in the Theravada tradition who has over a million followers on TikTok, and tens of thousands on Instagram and other social media. Since Venerable Tri Dao is actively using technology to spread the Buddhist teachings in a way that is understandable, we can explore how "Virtual Buddhism" can be an option, and what is needed to practice that way.
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| 68 - The Buddhist Virtues | 12 Jul 2024 | 00:19:31 | |
Buddhists have "virtues" they uphold on their path towards enlightenment and nirvana. What is wonderful about the virtues is that they are meant to be practiced and upheld in everyday life! Learn about nine (9) Buddhist virtues in this episode, why they are important, and how to practice them.
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 43 - The Enemy of the Buddha - Mara | 13 Feb 2023 | 00:27:49 | |
Before Siddhartha was enlightened and became the Buddha, he had to face the demon Mara and his army. While Mara doesn't get talked about all the time in Buddhism, he is all around us trying to make us create the unwholesome karma that keeps us trapped in rebirth/samsara. Mara is also an analogy for our obstacles in Buddhism and for the Three Fires/Poisons of greed, anger, and ignorance. When we "defeat" Mara, we also end the Three Fires/Poisons and realize Nirvana! In this episode, learn more about Mara, his encounters with the Buddha, and what he means for our Buddhist practice. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 42 - Buddhism During Difficult Times | 30 Jan 2023 | 00:27:06 | |
When challenging and difficult times happen in your life, are you able to continue your Buddhist practice? What does it mean to practice Buddhism during these times, and what practices may be helpful? In this episode, we will talk about the "storms" that can come into our lives, what we as Buddhists do for our practice, and why continuing on the path in Buddhism is important. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhism-hard-times/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 41 - Faith in Buddhism | 09 Jan 2023 | 00:21:29 | |
Do you need to have blind faith in Buddhism? Faith in things you can't prove such as karma, rebirth, samsara, etc.? This is one of the most often-asked questions (and concerns) about Westerners exploring or entering Buddhism for the first time. The short answer is that we have faith in Buddhism, but it isn't what you expect. However, faith is a crucial component of the path in Buddhism in order to make progress and understand why we practice. Learn more in this episode! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 40 - Buddhist Holidays | 12 Dec 2022 | 00:23:54 | |
There are many Buddhist holidays, but what are they and what do they mean to you? Buddhist holidays serve a few purposes, which include getting Buddhists together (Dharma Friends), engaging with monastics, visiting the temple, practicing the religion (chanting, recitation, sutra writing, etc.), engaging in additional practices, and reinvigorating your faith in the Buddhist path.
Thank you for listening!
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| 39 - Taking the Triple Gem Refuge (Becoming a Buddhist) | 08 Nov 2022 | 00:22:22 | |
When you are ready to become a Buddhist, you "officially" become one by taking the Triple Gem Refuge. But what does this mean and why is it important? Can you take the Triple Gem Refuge from home? What's the purpose of becoming a Buddhist? I'll talk about these topics and more in this episode! Suppose you're ready to become a Buddhist and don't have a temple nearby. In that case, you can take the Triple Gem at home by saying "I take refuge in the Buddha (our teacher), I take refuge in the Dharma (the Buddha's liberating teachings), I take refuge in the Sangha (monastic community)".
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps Get Alan's new book: "Daily Buddhist Practice Guide": https://alanpeto.com/books/daily-buddhist-practice-guide/ | |||
| 38 - The Leadership of the Buddha | 10 Oct 2022 | 00:29:20 | |
We often think of the Buddha as the founder of the Buddhist religion in our era. But he was also a leader. The Buddha had to manage, supervise, organize, inspire, and delegate to get a community started, rules to organize the monastics, talk with everyone from kings to farmers, and do this all in a way that everyone could understand. If you want to develop your leadership skills, looking to the Buddha can be a great source of inspiration. Or, if you're just interested in this often-unseen aspect of the Buddha, you'll get an overview in this episode. Read the Article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddha-leadership-lessons/ Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps Get Alan's new book: "Daily Buddhist Practice Guide": https://alanpeto.com/books/daily-buddhist-practice-guide/ | |||
| 37 - Attachment (Upadana) in Buddhism and the Fire Sermon | 27 Sep 2022 | 00:25:27 | |
What are we trying to end in Buddhism? The Three Fires of greed, anger, and ignorance result in karmic actions that trap us in rebirth and dukkha (suffering). But how did we get here in the first place? What "fuels" those three fires? It's Upadana. Literally "fuel", but often translated as "attachment". This is where we cling and attach to sense objects with our sense organs (we see something we like through our eyes for instance, and that gives rise to our mind/consciousness). When we guard our senses and tame our mind, we cut off the fuel to the three fires which is nirvana...our true mental state of freedom. Also, in this episode I'll read the Fire Sermon (13 minutes into the episode) which gives context to Upadana and the Three Fires. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps Get Alan's new book: "Daily Buddhist Practice Guide": https://alanpeto.com/books/daily-buddhist-practice-guide/ | |||
| 36 - The Six Perfections (Paramitas) in Buddhist Practice | 19 Sep 2022 | 00:26:55 | |
What is the practice of Mahayana Buddhists? From Zen to Pure Land, Mahayana Buddhists strive to perfect the Six Perfections or "Paramitas". These are the qualities and virtues of the true nature of an enlightened being like a Buddha or Bodhisattva. Learn what they are and how to apply them to your practice! Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps | |||
| 35 - The Five Hindrances of Buddhist Meditation | 06 Sep 2022 | 00:23:09 | |
Buddhism has something called the "Five Hindrances" which are mental obstructions on our path towards enlightenment and Nirvana. In this episode, we will talk about Buddhist meditation, our mind, and how the Five Hindrances are like obstacles on the road and some common Buddhist ways to overcome them. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps | |||
| 34 - Reincarnation in Buddhism? (Rebirth) | 16 Aug 2022 | 00:28:15 | |
A common misconception is that Buddhism believes in “reincarnation” where a permanent and unchanging “self” or “soul” transmigrates to a new body or existence. The Buddha firmly rejected this.
In Buddhism, the focus on “karma,” and generating wholesome karma, is related to rebirth. The reason Buddhists want to achieve enlightenment and realize Nirvāṇa is to stop creating the types of karma that keep them trapped so they can end the cycle of birth and death known as Saṃsāra.
Learn about rebirth in Buddhism in this episode!
Read about rebirth in my article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/understanding-reincarnation-rebirth/
And in my video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYmp3LjvSFE
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/
Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps
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| 67 - Realms of Rebirth in Buddhism | 29 Jun 2024 | 00:31:55 | |
What are all the 'realms of rebirth' in Buddhism (and "Samsara" or the "Cycle of Rebirth")? And what do they mean to you as a layperson Buddhist practitioner? Are they real? Are they a state of mind? Let's explore! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 08:00 The Hell Realm 10:08 The Animal Realm 11:40 The Hungry Ghosts Realm 14:56 The Human Realm 19:11 The Titans or Asuras Realm 20:50 The Devas or Gods or Heavenly Realm 25:58 Are These Real or The State of Mind? 28:44 Motivation and Buddhist Practice 30:08 Conclusion Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 33 - Devotional Buddhism | 25 Jul 2022 | 00:25:58 | |
Regardless of tradition or branch, the half-billion Buddhists around the world practice something called devotional Buddhism. This is based on faith and refuge in the Triple Gem (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), and not on blind faith. This foundational way to practice Buddhism provides a balanced approach on the path towards enlightenment that can be traced all the way back to the time of the Buddha 2,600 years ago! In this episode, you'll learn why we have Buddha statues, why there is bowing and prostrating, and why you should give devotional Buddhism a chance.
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| 32 - Mahayana Buddhism | 29 Jun 2022 | 00:39:40 | |
Mahayana makes up the second branch of Buddhism in our world today and is practiced in the East-Asian and Central-Asian countries. Mahayanists follow the "Bodhisattva Path" that leads to the full awakening of Buddhahood. This Mahayana Path allows anyone, even laypersons, to achieve enlightenment without having to take a path of a monastic.
Learn more in the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/understanding-mahayana-theravada/
About Buddhist scriptures: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhist-scriptures/
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Fv0N9-iDN4
Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/
Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps
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| 31 - Theravada Buddhism | 20 Jun 2022 | 00:24:58 | |
The first in a series of episodes on the branches and traditions of Buddhism, we will explore Theravāda Buddhism. How did this school emerge? Did it ever read Mahayana sutras? What is the school of thought and guiding practice? Come explore in this episode!
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| 30 - Buddhist Temples | 13 Jun 2022 | 00:29:51 | |
What is a Buddhist temple and how do you attend services in one? In this episode, I'll talk about why we have Buddhist temples, how to find one, some examples of etiquette when going to one, the general layout and structure of a temple, and what to do if there is no temple near you.
Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/
Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps
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| 29 - Pure Land Buddhism & Amitābha Buddha | 06 Jun 2022 | 00:32:15 | |
One of the most popular and widely practiced forms of Buddhism is "Pure Land". This practice is found throughout East-Asia and Central-Asia (Mahayana) and is part of the daily practice of a large number of Buddhists. But what does this mean for a Westerner? Often, Pure Land Buddhism can look very devotional or faith-based, and there is that aspect. It is one of many "Dharma doors" that leads to enlightenment by providing an expedient "training ground" to help anyone who wants to go there. Learn about this fascinating and powerful Buddhist practice. Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ Get Alan's free eBook "Buddhism in 10 Steps": https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps | |||
| 28 - Buddhist Cosmology | 30 May 2022 | 00:34:59 | |
Buddhism has a rich and vast cosmology that can sometimes be overlooked or disregarded by Westerners. However, this cosmology is central to the half-billion Buddhists around the world and shapes the desire and effort they have in practicing Buddhism. Learn about the six realms of rebirth, units of time (kalpas), and pure lands in this new episode. Learn more about Buddhist cosmology in my article here: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhist-cosmology/ Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ | |||
| 27 - Buddhism in 10 Steps Book Interview with Buddhist Monk Sanathavihari Bhikkhu | 09 May 2022 | 00:40:32 | |
The free eBook, Buddhism in 10 Steps, was written by Alan Peto and Buddhist Monk Sanathavihari Bhikkhu to help those new to Buddhism get a 'quick start' with a short and easy to read book. In this episode, Alan discusses some topics from the book, and Buddhism in general, with Sanathavihari. Sanathavihari’s websites and social media: https://linktr.ee/sanathaviharibhikkhu
To get the book, visit: https://alanpeto.com/books/buddhism-10-steps/ (available as a free eBook or a paperback on Amazon).
Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact
Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/
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| 26 - The Buddha's Mothers (Mother's Day Episode) | 02 May 2022 | 00:20:39 | |
Did you know that the Buddha actually had two mothers? His mother, Maya, passed away just a few days after he was born. His aunt became his stepmother and raised him as her own. At a basic level, this doesn't speak much about Buddhism until you realize how important these two women were. One gave birth to the Buddha of our era (in a very supernatural way), and the other helped create the conditions for young Siddhartha to eventually become the Buddha. And his stepmother would be the one that pushed for female monastics (and became the first nun). Learn more in this Mother's Day episode to two amazing mothers of the Buddha. Read the Article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddha-mothers-day/ Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ | |||
| 25 - A Buddhist Easter | 17 Apr 2022 | 00:21:24 | |
Easter is celebrated by Christians around the world. But does Buddhism have a similar resurrection story? Yes and no. While Jesus and the Buddha were two different people, religions, and paths, we can find some similarities between their stories and "resurrection". Read the article here: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhist-easter/ In order for Siddhartha Gautama to become the Buddha, his belief in “self” needed to die. When this occurred, his true natural state of Nirvana was resurrected. Nirvana is within all of us, but we fail to see it. Siddhartha's enlightenment is celebrated by Buddhists as an inspiration for us to continue our efforts towards that same goal. Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ | |||
| 24 - How to Start Off in Buddhism | 04 Apr 2022 | 00:28:32 | |
If you live in a country where Buddhism is not the major religion, it can be overwhelming to begin with for many. However, if you just follow three straightforward steps you can correctly begin your journey in the religion! Episode Time Bookmarks: 1:25 - Understanding Buddhism 8:05 - Practicing Buddhism 18:00 - Triple Gem Refuge (Becoming a Buddhist) Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ | |||
| 66 - Buddhist Mindfulness of Breathing Meditation | 18 Jun 2024 | 00:26:50 | |
Learn Buddhist Mindfulness Breathing! Want to do breathing meditation like the Buddha? It's known as Ānāpānasati / Ānāpānasmṛti but is commonly referred to as "mindfulness of breathing". And it can be as straightforward as that. (Jump to 17:20 minutes in this episode for the meditation session; view all the chapters below) You are observing the breath without control, force, judgement, etc. While this sounds easy, your body has another agenda. You'll have thoughts, an itch, muscle aches, etc., to distract you. With practice, you will also observe these things, and just "let them go". While there are many different ways (and levels) to mindfulness of breathing, I'll give you a short and simple version here. Don't worry about trying to cover all these steps - just work on focusing on one spot on your body (such as the inside of your nostrils) and observe the breath going in and out, and your counting. That's it! With practice, and under the proper guidance of a teacher, this breathing meditation has many benefits to the development of meditative concentration, insight into conditioned phenomena, and much more! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Purpose 01:15 Why Practice 03:30 How to Practice 05:29 Where to Focus 06:14 Think Like an Observer 07:35 Length of Practice 08:01 Distractions 08:58 Calming & Insight 09:30 Go Easy on Yourself 10:30 How to Breathe 11:25 How it Changes You 12:55 Pre-Meditation Tips 17:20 Meditation Session (Follow Along) 23:00 End of Meditation Session Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast Podcast Disclaimer: alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer | |||
| 23 - Buddhism During Difficult and Challenging Times | 28 Mar 2022 | 00:24:15 | |
When challenging times happen to us, we can easily become overwhelmed with the situation. While we are following the advice of professionals during these times, we can sometimes lose our Buddhist practice. We may feel that there isn't a way to practice Buddhism, or perhaps it is the furthest thing from your mind. As Buddhists, we can and should practice Buddhism even during these challenging times. In this episode, I'll explain three parts to continue practicing: Faith, Effort, and an adaptive Practice to meet the needs of the situation. Read the article: https://alanpeto.com/buddhism/buddhism-hard-times/ Contact Alan: https://alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Disclaimer: https://alanpeto.com/legal/podcast-disclaimer/ | |||
| 22 - Not-Self in Buddhism | 14 Mar 2022 | 00:24:05 | |
One of the fundamental teachings of the Buddha is that we do not have a permanent, unchanging, and independent "self". However, we believe we do have such a "self", and as a result, we engage in karmic actions that trap us in the cycle of rebirth, which means continual rebecoming in new existences, which is suffering because they are impermanent. Buddhist practice is focused on breaking down this illusionary belief in a self so we can encounter our true self and existence which is impermanent, ever-changing, and interdependent on other phenomena. When we do this, we can live in our natural state of Nirvana free of the Three Fires/Poisons of ignorance, greed, and anger. Have a question or comment? Send me a message via my site at alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 21 - Karma in Buddhism | 07 Mar 2022 | 00:23:19 | |
Karma can be a misunderstood term in our world since it has crept into our everyday conversations with "good karma" and "bad karma". But for Buddhists, it is an important part of the religion because it is something one wants to both transform, and ultimately end creating karma that keeps them bound to the cycle of rebirth. Enlightened beings, such as the Buddha, created Karma 'without outflows' meaning it is the karma of an enlightened being who is no longer creating karmic actions that are unskillful and reinforcing (and binding) the false idea of a permanent 'self'. Instead, it is karma where one has a clear and fundamental understanding of the world and how to properly interact in it. Have a question or comment? Send me a message at alanpeto.com/contact | |||
| 20 - The Buddhist Threefold Training | 28 Feb 2022 | 00:23:59 | |
The "Threefold Training" is based upon the Buddha's Eightfold Path to practice Buddhism that leads to enlightenment and Nirvana. It is the way to end the Three Fires of greed, anger, and ignorance/delusion which would then lead to your true state of Nirvana (which is devoid of the Three Fires). The Threefold Training is practiced by the different Buddhist traditions in different ways but can ultimately be found in all the different practices, rituals, ceremonies, and other things found within them. Send me your question or message: https://alanpeto.com/contact | |||