Shows
Free Buddhist AudioThe Way of the Dharma Warrior In this talk, given during the 2013 Young men's retreat at Padmaloka, Padmavajra describes the qualities of the Dharma Warrior and how Dharma Warriors are fighting in the great battle between the spiritual community and the group - fighting for the liberation of the truly human individual against the forces of mediocrity and uniformity - the battle with Mara who embodies those forces. Padmavajra concludes with David Jones' magnificent evocation of a warrior in his poem 'The Hunt'. Given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2013. *** Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone! Donate now: https://freebuddhistaudio.com...
2025-12-201h 07
Dharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioTaking Darshan Urgyen Sangharakshita - Bhante - who died last year, is not only the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Order and Community, but also teacher and spiritual friend to Padmavajra. Padmavajra first met him when he was 17 and in this talk he shares some of his own most cherished memories of Bhante, including his experiences of being with him in India when he returned there in the 1970's to found the Order there. Excerpted from the talk entitled Urgyen Sangharakshita: The Bodhisattva's Reply given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre. 2019. *** Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone...
2025-08-1104 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioTaking Darshan Urgyen Sangharakshita - Bhante - who died last year, is not only the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Order and Community, but also teacher and spiritual friend to Padmavajra. Padmavajra first met him when he was 17 and in this talk he shares some of his own most cherished memories of Bhante, including his experiences of being with him in India when he returned there in the 1970's to found the Order there. Excerpted from the talk entitled Urgyen Sangharakshita: The Bodhisattva's Reply given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre. 2019. *** Help us keep FBA Podcasts free for everyone...
2025-08-1104 min
Free Buddhist AudioFearless Creativity In this talk Padmavajra explores the first two verses of the Dhammapada and their far reaching implications. He explores how we create not only our own happiness or suffering through our actions but also how we create worlds, worlds of suffering or worlds conducive to human growth and even freedom. He then describes how the Bodhisattva works tirelessly and heroicly to create a Buddha field for the benefit of all beings. Talk given during the February Great Gathering weekend at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2020. ••• Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spot...
2025-03-081h 01
London Buddhist CentreWhat the World Needs Now: Imagination | PadmavajraEvery Autumn, the LBC offers The Urban Retreat: a week of free events exploring meditation, Buddhism and more.
On the Urban Retreat 2023, we explored the theme: What the World Needs Now. Hear responses from experienced Buddhist practitioners.
You can make a donation to the LBC here: https://www.londonbuddhistcentre.com/giving/donate
2024-11-2250 min
Free Buddhist AudioIn the Lands of the Siddhas In this talk Padmavajra explores 'the way of the ecstatic wanderers', the Mahasiddhas who are the early Buddhist Tantric adepts. He tells some stories, including stories about Sangharakshita and his encounters with a one-eyed Tantric in South India. He also evokes 'the mysterious home of the dakini' which takes us to the Land of the Five Jnanas. Finally, he makes a plea to take the magic power of Love out to others to heal the violence of this world. This talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2023. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On A...
2024-10-2654 min
London Buddhist CentreThe Wondrous House of the Dharma | PadmavajraPadmavajra explores what it means to come together in a Buddhist centre to practice the Dharma and why we need such places in which to practice together. He touches on the importance of learning the Dharma, inspiration, friendship and the 'bodying forth' of the Buddha's teachings in our lives.
If you got value from this talk, please consider donating to the London Buddhist Centre: https://www.londonbuddhistcentre.com/donate
2024-09-0644 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe Highly Potent Elixir of Transformation In his first talk on Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara Padmavajra speaks of Sangharakshita's evocation of the Bodhicitta. He goes on to talk about his discovery of the Bodhicarayavatara and what is known of the life of Shantideva. The main part of the talk is Padmavajra's discussion of some of the verses of the first chapter of the Bodhicaryavatara, especially of verse ten, in which the Bodhicitta is likened to the highly potent quicksilver elixir of the alchemist, capable of transforming the worst of things into the Bodhicitta. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre as part of the series Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara, 2020.
2024-08-241h 12
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioAn Honest Exploration of Truth Padmavajra explores what it means to come together in a Buddhist centre to practice the Dharma and why we need such places in which to practice together. He touches on the importance of learning the Dharma, inspiration, friendship and the 'bodying forth' of the Buddha's teachings in our lives. Excerpted from the talk entitled The Wondrous House of the Dharma given at the London Buddhist Centre, 2023. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio pod...
2024-06-2402 min
Dharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioA Positive Longing Padmavajra first met Sangharakshita when he was 17 and in this talk he shares some of his own most cherished memories of Bhante, including his experiences of being with him in India when he returned there in the 1970's to found the Order there. Urgyen Sangharakshita - Bhante - who died in 2018, is not only the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Order and Community, but also teacher and spiritual friend to Padmavajra. Excerpted from the talk entitled Urgyen Sangharakshita: The Bodhisattva's Reply given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple P...
2024-04-0203 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioA Positive Longing Padmavajra first met Sangharakshita when he was 17 and in this talk he shares some of his own most cherished memories of Bhante, including his experiences of being with him in India when he returned there in the 1970's to found the Order there. Urgyen Sangharakshita - Bhante - who died in 2018, is not only the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Order and Community, but also teacher and spiritual friend to Padmavajra. Excerpted from the talk entitled Urgyen Sangharakshita: The Bodhisattva's Reply given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple P...
2024-04-0203 min
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioTrue to Something Deeper Padmavajra delves into the true nature of conflict and harmony by exploring two significant episodes in the life of the Buddha, one of which features disharmony from within the Sangha of monks itself. Excerpted from the talk The Quarrelsome Monks of Kosambi which was streamed from the Padmaloka shrine room to around 30 people tuning in via Zoom to the Mid Essex Buddhist Centre, 2020. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Appl...
2024-02-2603 min
Buddhistisches Tor Berlin PodcastRemembering my Teacher SangharakshitaJoin us on a profound journey through the life and teachings of Sangharakshita, as Padmavajra, a senior order member of the Triratna Buddhist Community, shares intimate reflections on his revered teacher. In this captivating talk, Padmavajra delves into his personal encounters with Sangharakshita, dating back to the vibrant era of the 1970s. With sincerity and emotion, he recounts the magnetic pull of Sangharakshita's lectures, books, and charismatic presence that left an indelible mark on his spiritual journey.
Through heartfelt anecdotes, Padmavajra unveils the enigmatic personality of Sangharakshita, from humorous moments to profound teachings, revealing the depth of...
2024-02-1447 min
Buddhistisches Tor Berlin PodcastHow to be an Energetic PersonJoin us on a profound journey into the heart of Buddhist practice as Padmavajra explores the fundamental role of energy in spiritual growth. In this fascinating episode, Padmavajra delves into the essence of five essential energies, or virya, that practitioners cultivate to enrich their lives and benefit others.
From Ever-Ready Energy, which instills the readiness to contribute positively at any moment, to Insatiable Energy, characterized by an unending thirst for growth and spiritual progress, each type of energy offers a unique pathway to personal transformation. Through captivating stories from the Buddha's life, personal anecdotes, and timeless teachings...
2024-02-1050 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe Buddha Here and Now Padmavajra evokes the spirit of Tantric Buddhism, which transforms the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha from abstract ideals into living qualities of our present experience. He explores the guru, the yidam and the dakini as Tantric embodiments of Enlightenment here and now, sharing stories from his own experience of practice. Talk given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre, 2019, as part of the series Tantra Now! *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our D...
2023-12-1650 min
Free Buddhist AudioMeeting Spiritual Friends Speaking personally about stepping onto the Buddhist path, Padmavajra shares stories of spiritual friendship in the context of his own life and reflected in the work of Gampopa's Jewel Ornament of Liberation. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2008, the third talk in an eight part...
2023-11-181h 06
Custom - PadmasambhavaProtected: LOC1421 – Compassion by PadmavajraThere is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
2023-08-3157 min
Buddhist VoicesJyotipala - Returning from the Wilderness (Fifty Years, Fifty Voices, Full Interview)In this episode of the Buddhist Voices podcast, we delve into the life of Dharmachari Jyotipala. Ordained into the Triratna Buddhist Order in the late 1970s, Jyotipala's spiritual journey has taken in many different contexts within the Order, including a spell living in India wearing formal Buddhist robes. However, his spiritual life started much earlier than that. Raised a catholic he became inspired by Thomas Merton and joined a then new monastery in Utah, ‘Our Lady of the Holy Trinity’, with the intention of becoming a Trappist monk.
In this insightful interview conducted by Satyalila in 2018, Jyotipala's remarkable level...
2023-08-0948 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe Skilful Means of Vimalakirti What is a Pure Land? And how do you create one? What is the true meaning of the Buddhas skilful means. With characteristic aplomb Padmavajra unpacks the esoteric teachings of one of Buddhism's greatest Sutras. This talk was given at London Buddhist Centre, 2015. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times ev...
2023-06-1755 min
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioStill Friends: New Name With humour and engaging personal stories, Padmavajra speaks to the moment in our collective history when Bhante Sangharakshita changed the name of our community from Friends of the Western Buddhist Order to Triratna Buddhist Community. Excerpted from the short talk Changing Our Name to Triratna Buddhist Community given at the Triratna International Retreat, May 2010. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts
2023-04-0404 min
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Essence of Bodhicitta Padmavajra shares a story of meeting on the basis of Bodhicitta arising between people. He tells us how Shantideva takes to heart, ever more firmly, the Bodhicitta, through his lavish performance of puja and a searing confession of faults. Giving Ourselves Completely to the Buddhas - Bodhicaryavatara Chapter 2 as part of the series Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2020. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podca...
2023-02-0607 min
Free Buddhist AudioBodhicitta: The Highly Potent Elixir of Transformation"Taking this image of the human form the Bodhicitta transmutes it into the priceless image of the Jewel of the Conqueror. Grasp tightly this highly potent elixir, known as the Bodhicitta, which must be thoroughly worked." In this talk on Shantideva's Bodhicaryavatara Padmavajra speaks of Sangharakshita's evocation of the Bodhicitta. Here, he discusses some of the verses of the first chapter, especially of verse ten, in which the Bodhicitta is likened to the highly potent quicksilver elixir of the alchemist, capable of transforming the worst of things into the Bodhicitta. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, A...
2023-02-041h 33
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioWisdom Comes Through SilenceThe final talk in Padmavajra's wonderful series on the Dhammapada, the most popular of early Buddhist texts. All of the Buddha's core teachings are here - held in heart and mind there's more than enough in the Dhammapada to take us as far in our practice as we can imagine, and then on beyond... From the talk Flowers - Dhammapada Verses 44 to 59, part of the series The Dhammapada - the Buddha's Way of Truth, recorded at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007 *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts...
2023-01-1603 min
Free Buddhist AudioUltimate FreedomThe Buddha said that just as the taste of the ocean has but one taste, the taste of salt, so the Buddha's teaching has one taste, the taste of freedom. Liberation, freedom or emancipation are the essence of the Buddha's vision. In this wide ranging talk Padmavajra explains the conditions necessary to secure this heart's release. This talk is part of the series 'The Taste of Freedom' Revisited given at London Buddhist Centre, 2019. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, q...
2022-09-1040 minFree Buddhist AudioBeauty, Love and the Dharma LifeThe Life of the Buddha In this talk, Padmavajra explores the themes of beauty and love in the story of the life of the Buddha. He looks at the importance of nature, the arts, ethics, meditation and friendship in the journey to becoming one with Beauty. This talk was given at the Mid-Essex Buddhist Centre, 2019. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting!Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On...
2022-07-021h 13
Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioRiding the Chaos of Existence Padmavajra implores us to face ourselves and find the deep treasures of the Dharma through an introduction to Padmasamabhava, the great Tantric guru of Tibet. From the talk Padmasambhava and the Magic Of Compassion given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2006 *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every week. Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts A full, curated, quality Dharma talk, every week. 3,000,000 downloads and counting! Subscribe using th...
2022-03-1704 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Essential RevolutionThe first talk in Padmavajra's wonderful series on the Dhammapada, the most popular of early Buddhist texts. All of the Buddha's core teachings are here - held in heart and mind there's more than enough in the Dhammapada to take us as far in our practice as we can imagine, and then on beyond... Talk recorded at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007, as part of the series The Dhammapada - the Buddha's Way of Truth. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast: On Apple Podcasts | On Spotify | On Google Podcasts Bite-sized inspiration three times every we...
2022-02-1249 minFree Buddhist AudioPerfecting Generosity, Ethics and PatienceHere Padmavajra explores a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself. This is the seventh talk in an eight part series entitled Themes from Gampopa's Jewel Ornament of Liberation given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2008. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes po...
2021-12-251h 07Free Buddhist AudioSpiritual Death - Spiritual RebirthPadmavajra offers a deep set of reflections on these aspects of the Spiritual Path using Sangharakshita's poem 'Advent'; the contemplation of impermanence, death and our lack of any 'self-lordship'; Lahiji's vision of 'the black light'; bewilderment; and the concept of becoming reborn in the Bodhisattva. Talk given at Padmaloka Buddhist Centre, 2013, as part of a series of three talks entitled The Stages of the Path. *** Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-sized inspiration three times every week! (Apple Podcasts) Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast - a full Dharma talk...
2021-10-301h 10Free Buddhist AudioFearless CreativityBodhisattvas work tirelessly and heroically to create a Buddhafield for the benefit of all beings. Padmavajra explores the opening verses of the Dhammapada and their far reaching implications including how we create not only our own happiness or suffering through our actions, but also how we create worlds, worlds of suffering or worlds conducive to human growth and even freedom. Talk given during the February Great Gathering weekend at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2020. *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today. Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of D...
2021-06-191h 01Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioGreat Love as EmptinessHere we have Padmavajra talking about the importance of bhavana in our metta practice – the growing of friendly feelings, friendly responses, slowly, gently, like a garden. What you attend to, you become. It is vital that we engage with the practice honestly, starting where we actually are and gradually moving towards non-dual loving kindness, maha maitri, the Great Love that has dissolved the distinction between self and other. From the talk entitled Introducing the Great Love given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004, the first in a five part series by Padmavajra on all aspects of the Metta Bhavana pra...
2021-02-0410 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioGreat Love as EmptinessHere we have Padmavajra talking about the importance of bhavana in our metta practice – the growing of friendly feelings, friendly responses, slowly, gently, like a garden. What you attend to, you become. It is vital that we engage with the practice honestly, starting where we actually are and gradually moving towards non-dual loving kindness, maha maitri, the Great Love that has dissolved the distinction between self and other. From the talk entitled Introducing the Great Love given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004, the first in a five part series by Padmavajra on all aspects of the Metta Bhavana pra...
2021-02-0410 minFree Buddhist AudioLightning Flashes From the Realm of Pure BeautyIn this talk Padmavajra contemplates Beauty in different areas of Dharma life, including the beauty of people, of ethics, of friendship, community and 'institutions', and of wisdom. He also looks at the relationship between metta, formless beauty and the yidam, as well as knowing what beauty really is and 'the pregnant man'. This talk was given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the Spring Short Order retreat in March 2019. *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today. Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of Dharma inspiration, two times a...
2020-12-191h 12Free Buddhist AudioThe More They Beat Us, The Louder We Sang'Serenity, freedom from disease, joy and long life, the happiness of an emperor, prosperity; these the patient person receives while continuing in cyclic existence.' Padmavajra's sixth talk on the Bodhicaryavatara explores Shantideva's thorough exploration of the perfection of patience. In this chapter, Shantideva brings our attention to the seriousness of the faults of hatred and anger. He shows how such states of mind arise and gives a number of ways in which patience can be cultivated in relation to the various sufferings inherent in life, especially towards those who cause us - or our...
2020-11-071h 23Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioLong Ago in Ancient IndiaPadmavajra tells the tale of Bahiya of the Bark Cloth demonstrate his ability to instantly wake others up to Reality. The Buddha was the first of the Mahasiddhas, or Great Perfected Ones. In the sixth century a new kind of Buddhist practitioner appears, picking up on these aspects of the teachings of the Buddha and opening up a new universe of myth, symbol and imagination. From the talk entitled The Buddha and the Mahasiddhas, part of the eight-part series Crazy Wisdom of the Mahasiddhas, given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007. *** Subscribe to our Free B...
2020-10-1214 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Loveliest BodhisattvasIn this talk, Padmavajra explores the Altruistic dimension of Going for Refuge - The Bodhisattva Ideal - through Bhante's poem 'The Guardian Wall'. He particularly explores the line in the poem: 'The loveliest Bodhisattvas are the anonymous' and what this means for somebody aspiring to practice the great ideal of the Bodhisattva. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre during the 'Bodhisattva Ideal' retreat in January 2020. *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today. Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of Dharma inspiration, two times a w...
2020-10-031h 16Free Buddhist AudioPerfecting Generosity, Ethics and PatienceThis is the seventh talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter 2008 This talk is part of the series Themes from Gampopa's Jew...
2020-08-221h 09Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioTough Dharma: Moving to a Deeper PlacePadmavajra calls on the radical early teaching of the Buddha to activate love as skillful and wise response to those we perceive as causing us harm. The second talk in Padmavjara's wonderful series on the Dhammapada, the most popular of early Buddhist texts. All of the Buddha's core teachings are here - held in heart and mind there's more than enough in the Dhammapada to take us as far in our practice as we can imagine, and then on beyond... From the talk Changing Hatred into Love - Dhammapada Verses 3 to 6 recorded at Padmaloka Retreat...
2020-07-1309 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioWisdom is Seeing with the Eye of AppreciationNirvana is described as great bliss, that arises when grasping at self and other has vanished. A stream of uninterrupted creative activity, the Buddha is the supreme example of this. Here Padmavajra offers a deep dive into the Dhammapada, verses 277-279, on impermanence, dukkha and insubstantiality. From the talk entitled Seeing with Insight - Dhammapada Verses 277 to 279 which is part of the series The Dhammapada - the Buddha's Way of Truth given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007. This is the fourth talk in Padmavjara's wonderful series on the Dhammapada, the most popular of early Buddhist texts. A...
2020-05-2815 min
The Buddhist CentreThe Buddha And The Naga King - Padmavajracountdown to #buddhaday!
For our Triratna international Buddha Day celebration, on the occasion of the full Moon day itself, Padmavajra introduces us to the story of the Buddha and the Naga King, Mucalinda. With characteristic resonant depth, Padmavajra evokes the meaning and significance of the Buddha's Enlightenment, and his subsequent encounter with Mucalinda.
He then reflects on the Udana, the inspired utterance, with which the Sutta ends, and describes it as a path of practice:
Blissful is solitude for one who is content, for one who has heard Dhamma and who sees,
Blissful is non hatred in the world, restraint toward...
2020-05-071h 01Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioCraving in the Modern WorldPadmavajra takes a deep look at the marvellous, terrifying, visionary world of the Bardo Thodol, or 'Tibetan Book of the Dead'. In this episode, we plunge fearlessly down into the lower realms of the wheel of life to meet the beings who inhabit - and the Buddhas who come to meet them. A sobering but strongly felt evocation of how we make the worlds with our minds - and what we might do to counteract the dangers. From the talk On Hell and Hungry Ghosts, part 2 of the 8-part series Tibetan Book of the Dead (Ba...
2020-04-2313 minFree Buddhist AudioImagining the Tantric GatheringWhen we approach the Dharma and looking at Buddhism try to imagine the people from who it comes, the communities from which it arises. In the origins of Indian Tibetan Buddhism there isn't a lot of material available, and there are lots of secrets! Padmavajra rounds out a series of talks at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre (UK, 2017) on the Tantric Path with this thought-provoking investigation into the spiritual intimacies of Buddhist sangha. *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today. Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of D...
2020-02-2955 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioComing Together in CommunityHere Padmavajra discusses the Sangharavastus and the Pratisamvids - a compassion aspect and a wisdom aspect of the Bodhisattva's aspiration to create community as a condition for Enlightenment. From the talk Freedom From Polarization given at the Croydon Buddhist Centre in January 2019. *** Subscribe to our Free Buddhist Audio podcast - a full Dharma talk every week! Follow our blog for news and new Dharma FBA on Twitter FBA on Facebook FBA on Soundcloud
2019-11-0709 minFree Buddhist AudioUltimate FreedomPadmavajra visited the London Buddhist Centre to give a talk on Sangharakshita's classic 1979 lecture 'The Taste of Freedom'. Just as the mighty ocean has but one taste, the taste of salt, even so the Dharma-vinaya (Buddhism) has but one taste, the taste of Freedom. (from 'The Udana'). Talk given June 2019 *** Help keep FBA free for everyone! Become a supporter today. Subscribe to our Dharmabytes podcast - bite-size pieces of Dharma inspiration, two times a week! Follow our blog for news and new Dharma ...
2019-08-2441 minFree Buddhist AudioHow to Build a BuddhalandIt's often very difficult to keep up with the challenges of a Buddhist practice. If we are truly to make progress in our Buddhist practice, we have to take into account our surroundings, our environment, where we live, where we work, where we socialize. Transforming our own lives and minds is at the core of our practice, but to do that effectively we also need to look at transforming, remaking, rebuilding the world and communities around us. Taking inspiration from The Vimalakirti Nirdesa, Padmavajra offers instructions for how to create a Buddhaland. 1. Make yourself 2...
2019-07-201h 05
Free Buddhist AudioContinuous Spiritual Death - Continuous Spiritual RebirthHere Padmavajra speaks about the stages of spiritual death and rebirth. How to prepare for them, how they can be seen in all the stages of the path, as well as where they lead. Talk given on a Kula Gathering at Padmaloka, 2012. Subscribe to the FBA Podcast!
2019-06-011h 02
London Buddhist CentreInvoking PadmasambhavaHighly respected teacher Padmavajra invokes Padmasambahava, the great Guru of the Tibetan tradition. Using mantra and story from Padmasmbhava's life the talk makes the case for symbol, myth and vision in our dharma lives.
2019-05-2954 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe 4 GiftsAll bona fide Buddhism is Activism. We want to make the world better right? The issue is energy; how can we cultivate energy in pursuit of the good. In this week's FBA Podcast, entitled The 4 Gifts, Padmavajra considers 5 fundamental aspects of Virya – known as Energy for Enlightenment.
2019-03-091h 02
Free Buddhist AudioThe Diamond Sutra – Taking Mind to its LimitsThis week's FBA Podcast is the first talk in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on 'The Diamond Sutra' entitled Taking Mind to its Limits. We are taken through the work stage by stage, and here we begin with the opening scenes and the text itself as a revelation of Reality… Talks given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 This talk is part of the series The Diamond Sutra – Taking Mind to its Limits.
2018-12-0832 min
The Buddhist CentreExtracts from a Puja for Urgyen Sangharakshita on the Evening of His Funeral and BurialOn the evening of Urgyen Sangharakshita's funeral and burial, after the departure of most of the 1,200 guests, those who remained gathered together to perform a special, final sevenfold puja and close an extraordinary day.
Padmavajra led the devotional ritual, specifically dedicated to Padmasambhava. In this extract we hear Surata reading verses to Vajrasattva known as 'The Confounder of Hell', followed by a rousing version of the Great Guru of Tibet's mantra.
Voices were uplifted and many offerings made: to say a last farewell with heartfelt thanks to the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Community.
Recorded on Saturday the 10th of...
2018-11-2519 min
The Buddhist CentreExtracts from a Puja for Urgyen Sangharakshita on the Evening of His Funeral and BurialOn the evening of Urgyen Sangharakshita's funeral and burial, after the departure of most of the 1,200 guests, those who remained gathered together to perform a special, final sevenfold puja and close an extraordinary day. Padmavajra led the devotional ritual, specifically dedicated to Padmasambhava. In this extract we hear Surata reading verses to Vajrasattva known as 'The Confounder of Hell', followed by a rousing version of the Great Guru of Tibet's mantra. Voices were uplifted and many offerings made: to say a last farewell with heartfelt thanks to the founder of the Triratna Buddhist Community. R...
2018-11-2519 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe MotiveOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Padmavajra entitled The Motive. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Wi...
2018-06-3054 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioThe Seed of the Thus Gone Enlightenment must be within our reach! Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, is called The Seed of the Thus Gone, an excerpt from the talk simply titled The Motive by Padmavajra. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopaand#8217;s and#8216;Jewel Ornament of Liberationand#8217;. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Ri...
2018-06-2509 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioThe Seed of the Thus Gone Enlightenment must be within our reach! Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, is called The Seed of the Thus Gone, an excerpt from the talk simply titled The Motive by Padmavajra. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopaand#8217;s and#8216;Jewel Ornament of Liberationand#8217;. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Ri...
2018-06-2509 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Seed of the Thus Gone Enlightenment must be within our reach! Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, is called The Seed of the Thus Gone, an excerpt from the talk simply titled The Motive by Padmavajra. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopaand#8217;s and#8216;Jewel Ornament of Liberationand#8217;. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Ri...
2018-06-2509 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Seed of the Thus Gone Enlightenment must be within our reach! Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, is called The Seed of the Thus Gone, an excerpt from the talk simply titled The Motive by Padmavajra. This is the first talk in an eight part series by Padmavajra exploring a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopaand#8217;s and#8216;Jewel Ornament of Liberationand#8217;. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Ri...
2018-06-2509 min
Free Buddhist AudioThe Bodhicitta – A supra-personal spiritual forceOur FBA Podcast this week is a talk by Padmavajra entitled The Bodhicitta – A supra-personal spiritual force. This is the second in a series of five talks given on a Going for Refuge retreat at Padmaloka called Living From The Bodhicitta. Padmavajra explores some aspects of Sangharakshita's insights into the Bodhicitta, as well as how we might live a life devoted to living from the Bodhicitta.
2018-06-0946 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioWhat happens when we stop and listen? Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is entitled What happens when we stop and listen? from the talk The Sound of Reality by Padmavajra. Fabulous stuff. This richly rewarding talk explores the place and function of sound in Buddhist practice and history, as well as within Padmavajraand#8217;s own spiritual life. A wide-ranging cultural journey is made from John Coltrane to Sufi Qawwali, from mantra to Zen poetry, taking in Andre Gide, Renaissanace Neoplatonism and the ancient Pali Verses en route. Not to be missed! Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004
2018-05-2408 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioPerception (Samjna) – A Definition Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is called Perception (Samjna) and#8211; A Definition, taken from the 6th talk in the series The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limits by Padmavajra. This is the sixth in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on and#8216;The Diamond Sutraand#8217;. Down to the nitty-gritty now, with a useful and considered introduction to the nature and workings of perception itself. With a special emphasis too on moving from a utilitarian attitude to other people towards a genuine sense of relationship founded on loving kindness. Talks given...
2018-05-1407 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioPerception (Samjna) – A Definition Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is called Perception (Samjna) and#8211; A Definition, taken from the 6th talk in the series The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limits by Padmavajra. This is the sixth in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on and#8216;The Diamond Sutraand#8217;. Down to the nitty-gritty now, with a useful and considered introduction to the nature and workings of perception itself. With a special emphasis too on moving from a utilitarian attitude to other people towards a genuine sense of relationship founded on loving kindness. Talks given...
2018-05-1407 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioPerception (Samjna) – A Definition Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is called Perception (Samjna) and#8211; A Definition, taken from the 6th talk in the series The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limits by Padmavajra. This is the sixth in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on and#8216;The Diamond Sutraand#8217;. Down to the nitty-gritty now, with a useful and considered introduction to the nature and workings of perception itself. With a special emphasis too on moving from a utilitarian attitude to other people towards a genuine sense of relationship founded on loving kindness. Talks given...
2018-05-1407 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioPerception (Samjna) – A Definition Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is called Perception (Samjna) and#8211; A Definition, taken from the 6th talk in the series The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limits by Padmavajra. This is the sixth in a sparkling, wide-ranging, thoroughly comprehensive ten talk series by Padmavajra on and#8216;The Diamond Sutraand#8217;. Down to the nitty-gritty now, with a useful and considered introduction to the nature and workings of perception itself. With a special emphasis too on moving from a utilitarian attitude to other people towards a genuine sense of relationship founded on loving kindness. Talks given...
2018-05-1407 min
Free Buddhist AudioTraining in the Six Paramitas: Shila – The Essence of EthicsOur FBA Podcast this week is called Training in the Six Paramitas: Shila – The Essence of Ethics by Padmavajra. This is the fifth talk in a six-part series by Padmavajra exploring the Perfection of Wisdom and specifically the practice of the Six Perfections. The usual order of the practices is reversed, so here we turn to the key issue of "Ethics". Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 as part of the series Training in the Six Paramitas.
2018-04-141h 02
The Buddhist CentreMitra Info WorkshopPadmavajra and Viryanaya give a short overview over the Triratna mitra system at the March 2018 Groups & Pioneers weekend at Adhisthana
2018-04-0634 min
The Buddhist CentreKalyana mitrata and the spiritual lifeA talk given by Padmavajra at the march 2018 Groups & Pioneers weekend at Adhisthana on the theme of friendship and the spiritual life: Padmavajra uses the framework of the four samgrahavastus to share his thoughts on how to create a spiritual community
2018-04-051h 04
Free Buddhist AudioCreating Love, Respect and UnityIn this week's FBA Podcast Padmavajra describes how we practice the Dharma so as to create Love, respect and unity within our community and the wider world. Creating Love, Respect and Unity given at the Mens Event titled Beyond Isolation, Building the Buddha Land.
2016-06-181h 02Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioShraddha – A Curious IntuitionDrawing out concepts from the Dhammapadaand#8217;s verses, Padmavajra explores the qualities of faith (or shraddha) in this Dharmabyte podcast entitled and#8220;Shraddha and#8211; A Curious Intuitionand#8221;. From the talk and#8220;Changing Hatred into Love and#8211; Dhammapada Verses 3 to 6and#8243; given in 2007, and part of a larger series and#8220;The Dhammapada and#8211; The Buddhaand#8217;s Way of Truthand#8221;.
2016-04-2804 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioAll Conditioned Things… Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, All Conditioned Thingsand#8230; is an excerpt from the talk Seeing with Insight and#8211; Dhammapada Verses 277 to 279 by Padmavajra. All of the Buddhaand#8217;s core teachings are here and#8211; held in heart and mind thereand#8217;s more than enough in the Dhammapada to take us as far in our practice as we can imagine, and then on beyondand#8230; Talk recorded at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2007 This talk is part of the series The Dhammapada and#8211; the Buddhaand#8217;s Way of Truth.
2016-04-0409 min
The Buddhist CentrePadmavajra and Dhammadinna talk about the private preceptors' retreatsTwo of Triratna's most experienced Order members talking about training a new generation of private preceptors - those who ordain individuals into the Triratna Buddhist Order. #Dhammadinna #Padmavajra #Private #Preceptors #Triratna #Buddhism #Buddhist #ordination #Dharma
2016-03-1418 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Buddha’s ParinirvanaPadmavajra brings us into contact with the depths of the Diamond Sutra in todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, with this segment entitled and#8220;The Buddhaand#8217;s Parinirvanaand#8221;. Drawing on the story of the Buddhaand#8217;s final days, he illustrates the principle of practicing perfect generosity by giving of oneself freely and unsupported. From the talk and#8220;The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limits: Talk 3and#8243;, part of the series and#8220;The Diamond Sutra and#8211; Taking Mind to its Limitsand#8221;.
2016-02-1505 min
Free Buddhist AudioGlimpses of the Mythic Life of SangharakshitaToday's FBA Podcast is a tribute to our teacher, Bhante Sangharakshita, given by Padmavajra entitled "Glimpses of the Mythic Life of Sangharakshita". Urgyen Sangharakshita, the founder of the Western Buddhist Order, is many things to many people. Yet all inspiration and controversies aside, he is first and foremost a follower of the Buddha's way and his own evocations of his personal practice give many clues as to the nature of a committed Dharma life. Here Padmavajra, one of his closest disciples, offers his own perspective on Sangharakshita as a practitioner with a rich sense of the...
2015-12-121h 20Dharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioThe Act of Making a Refuge Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is entitled and#8220;The Act of Making a Refugeand#8221;, an excerpt from the talk and#8220;The Search For Refugeand#8221; by Padmavajra. At the time of the Buddha, life was unsafe, people sought refuge in sacred groves, natural shrines and blessed trees to seek protection from the dangers in the world. Explaining the three levels of Dukkha, Padmavajra gives us a clear pathway to understanding the movement within us to make refuges, and what those true refuges really are. Second in a series of five talks given at Padmaloka, March 2009 on the study theme...
2015-11-1611 minDharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Act of Making a Refuge Todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte is entitled and#8220;The Act of Making a Refugeand#8221;, an excerpt from the talk and#8220;The Search For Refugeand#8221; by Padmavajra. At the time of the Buddha, life was unsafe, people sought refuge in sacred groves, natural shrines and blessed trees to seek protection from the dangers in the world. Explaining the three levels of Dukkha, Padmavajra gives us a clear pathway to understanding the movement within us to make refuges, and what those true refuges really are. Second in a series of five talks given at Padmaloka, March 2009 on the study theme...
2015-11-1611 min
Free Buddhist AudioTriratna Emphases – Spiritual Friendship In his typical engaging speaking style, Padmavajra illuminates the Triratna emphasis on spiritual friendship in this week's FBA Podcast, with "Triratna Emphases – Spiritual Friendship". Wrapping up the last of the Six Emphases of Triratna that we've been featuring over many weeks, Padmavajra gives a through overview of the importance of companions on the Buddhist path.
2015-10-241h 06Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioLove and EmptinessLove is a force affecting a miraculous transformation. Our FBA Dharmabyte today is called Love and Emptiness by Padmavajra. This is the first in a five part series by Padmavajra on all aspects of the Metta Bhavana practice and and#8216;The Great Loveand#8217; in Buddhist discourse and practice and#8211; from metta (loving kindness) itself to Bodhichitta. His starting point here is to source notions of love in traditional teaching from the Pali Canon and in the great Mahayana sutras. A refreshing take on metta and how to cultivate it in your life. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat...
2015-08-2403 minDharmabytes from Free Buddhist AudioLove and EmptinessLove is a force affecting a miraculous transformation. Our FBA Dharmabyte today is called Love and Emptiness by Padmavajra. This is the first in a five part series by Padmavajra on all aspects of the Metta Bhavana practice and and#8216;The Great Loveand#8217; in Buddhist discourse and practice and#8211; from metta (loving kindness) itself to Bodhichitta. His starting point here is to source notions of love in traditional teaching from the Pali Canon and in the great Mahayana sutras. A refreshing take on metta and how to cultivate it in your life. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat...
2015-08-2403 minFree Buddhist AudioPadmasambhava and the Magic Of Compassion This week's FBA Podcast, is brought to us by Padmavajra called "Padmasambhava and the Magic Of Compassion". Padmavajra is an ideal person to introduce Padmasamabhava, the great Tantric guru of Tibet. He is both a devotee and a good storyteller – a winning combination as we are brought into vivifying contact with the origins and mysteries of this central Vajrayana figure. Please note, there is some audio skipping on this recording for a couple of minutes at around the 45 minute point. Oddly, the sense can still be followed. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2006
2015-08-011h 02Free Buddhist AudioYidams This week's FBA Podcast, "Yidams" is a talk given at Sheffield Buddhist Centre in 2007 by Padmavajra. As we approach the full moon of July, Buddhists around the world will be celebrating Dharma Day, the marking of the Buddha's first teaching. We decided to fast forward several hundred years after the Buddha's lifetime to introduce a host of Bodhisattva's who emerged to help spread the Dharma throughout the world. Beginning with this full talk, we will follow over the next few weeks with talks, mantras and more in our Dharmabytes Podcast to introduce Tara, Manjusri, Vajrapani, Ksitigarbha, Avalokitesvara and Padmasambhava.
2015-07-181h 02Dharmabytes from free buddhist audioThe Perfectly Enlightened MindIn todayand#8217;s FBA Dharmabyte, The Perfectly Enlightened Mind, Padmavajra offers a beautiful reading of the opening verses of Bodhicaravatara and#8211; the Entry of the Way into Enlightement, by Shantideva. The Bodhicitta is one of those terms that you need to get a feeling for and#8211; translating it as ‘the enlightened mind’ doesn’t quite do it justice. From the talk and#8220;Eros and Beauty and#8211; Manjughosha, Love and Beautyand#8221; given 23rd March 2015, London Buddhist Center.
2015-04-0609 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Mystery of Exchanging Self and OtherOur FBA Podcast this week is entitled "The Mystery of Exchanging Self and Other". This is the fifth in a series of six talks given by Padmavajra, based on verses from Shantideva's 'Guide to The Bodhisattva's Way of Life', otherwise known as 'The Bodhicaryavatara'. Talks given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, on the Winter Retreat, December 2011 – January 2012.
2015-01-3145 minFree Buddhist AudioGlimpses of the Mythic Life of Sangharakshitain this week's FBA Podcast, Padmavajra, one of Sangharakshita's closest disciples, offers his own perspective on Sangharakshita as a practitioner with a rich sense of the mythic context pervading all his thinking about the Buddha and his teaching, in a talk entitled "Glimpses of the Mythic Life of Sangharakshita".
2014-11-221h 20
The Buddhist CentrePreceptors' College Day 7: Karunadevi & PadmavajraVidyatara stands in for the College's intrepid reporter, Parami and has a chat with Karunadevi & Padmavajra. Tonight's topics include discipleship, views, consciousness & friendship within the College. #preceptorscollege #triratna #community #sangha #ordination #Buddha #Buddhism #Buddhist
2014-11-1821 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Motive (Remixed)In our FBA Podcast today, "The Motive (Remixed),", Padmavajra explores a great classic of Tibetan Buddhism – Gampopa's 'Jewel Ornament of Liberation'. The work, inspired by devotion to Manjusri, is one of the key texts in the development of the Tibetan Lam Rim teachings. And Gampopa, being one of the two principle disciples of the yogi Milarepa, presents both the monastic Lam Rim approach of Atisha and the Mahamudra meditation teachings of Milarepa himself. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, Winter 2008 This talk is part of the series Themes from Gampopa's Jewel Ornament of Liberation.
2014-05-3147 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Power of LoveWe are delighted to bring you "The Power of Love" in this week's FBA Podcast. Padmavajra begins this talk with the chanting of The Karaniya Metta Sutta, in order to invoke 'the blessing power of loving kindness', which according to the sutta needs to be wielded at all times. He explores all of the stages of the metta bhavana (development of loving-kindness practice), as well as showing how metta can lead to wisdom and liberation, at the same time saying: we practice the metta bhavana to love others, Enlightenment is incidental!
2014-02-151h 15Free Buddhist AudioThe Way of the Dharma Warrior This week's FBA Podcast, by Padmavajra, was given during the 2013 Young men's retreat at Padmaloka. Entitled "The Way of the Dharma Warrior", Padmavajra describes the qualities of the Dharma Warrior and how Dharma Warriors are fighting in the great battle between the spiritual community and the group – fighting for the liberation of the truly human individual against the forces of mediocrity and uniformity – the battle with Mara who embodies those forces. Padmavajra concludes with David Jones' magnificent evocation of a warrior in his poem 'The Hunt'.
2013-08-101h 07
FBA HighlightsPadmavajra on the Buddhafield and the Pureland in the MahayanaAn extract from Padmavajra's classic talk series from 2004 on the Diamond Sutra in which he looks at the Buddhist Mahayana tradition of the creation of Buddhafields as part of the Bodhisattva's activity.
This is from talk 8. Listen to the whole series here:
http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/series/details?ser=X36
2013-05-1906 min
FBA HighlightsPadmavajra on the Buddhafield as a symbol for EnlightenmentAn extract from Padmavajra's classic talk series from 2004 on the Diamond Sutra in which he looks at the Buddhist Mahayana tradition of the creation of Buddhafields as part of the Bodhisattva's activity.
This is from talk 8. Listen to the whole series here:
http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/series/details?ser=X36
2013-05-1904 min
FBA HighlightsPadmavajra on the creation of BuddhafieldsAn extract from Padmavajra's classic talk series from 2004 on the Diamond Sutra in which he sets out the connection in the Buddhist Mahayana tradition between merit (punya) and the creation of Buddhafields as part of the Bodhisattva's activity.
This is from talk 8. Listen to the whole series here:
http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/series/details?ser=X36
2013-05-1904 min
FBA HighlightsOn punya (merit) and the Buddhafield - enriching the worldAn extract from Padmavajra's classic talk series from 2004 on the Diamond Sutra in which he sets out the connection in the Buddhist Mahayana tradition between merit (punya) and the creation of Buddhafields as part of the Bodhisattva's activity.
This is from talk 3. Listen to the whole series here:
http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/series/details?ser=X36
2013-05-1904 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Tiger's CaveIn this week's FBA Podcast, Padmavajra takes us on an amazing journey into: "The Tiger's Cave." This is the first in an excellent 8-talk sequence by Padmavajra on Zen Buddhism. The series is full of colourful stories and challenging insights from the lives of the great Masters of China and Japan. This talk introduces the basics and brings us face to face with the Great Emptiness at the heart of practice. Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 This talk is part of the series "Tangling Eyebrows with Zen Masters."
2013-04-1340 minFree Buddhist AudioPeople of Loving KindnessOur FBA Podcast today, "People of Loving Kindness," is a lovely talk from Padmavajra, given to celebrate Sangha Day in Birmingham. And who better to conjure the spirit of loving kindness as it permeates a community practising together and supporting each other in their great, shared endeavour.
2012-11-171h 18Free Buddhist AudioContinuous Spiritual Death – Continuous Spiritual RebirthFBA Podcast, "Continuous Spiritual Death – Continuous Spiritual Rebirth" Padmavajra speaks about the stages of spiritual death and rebirth, specifically how to prepare for them, how they can be seen in all the stages of the path, as well as where they lead. Talk given on a Kula Gathering at Padmaloka, 2012.
2012-09-081h 02Free Buddhist AudioTibetan Book the Dead: Talk 1 – The Six Bardos This week's FBA Podcast , "Tibetan Book the Dead: Talk 1 – The Six Bardos", is an extraordinary talk by Padmavajra exploring the great text that reveals the realms between death and new life, where anything is possible in the Bardo – the 'intermediate state'. From the first talk in the series "Tibetan Book of the Dead (Bardo Thodol)." Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, winter retreat, 2005
2012-05-1253 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Buddha, Hakuin, Birth and DeathToday's FBA Podcast, "The Buddha, Hakuin, Birth and Death", is the second in an excellent 8-talk sequence by Padmavajra on Zen Buddhism. The series is full of colourful stories and challenging insights from the lives of the great Masters of China and Japan. In this talk, Padmavajra takes us into the strong experience of Going Forth into homelessness. Through personal reminiscence and classic Zen poetry that evokes a truly rich awareness, we see the Buddha, Hakuin, Dogen and Ryokan as they struggle to make sense of this fleeting world of form. This talk is part...
2012-01-2851 minFree Buddhist AudioGreat DoubtPadmavajra delivers some crazy stuff as we hit koan country! Today's FBA Podcast titled "Great Doubt" is the seventh in an excellent 8-talk sequence by Padmavajra on Zen Buddhism. The series is full of colourful stories and challenging insights from the lives of the great Masters of China and Japan. A fascinating look at doubt in spiritual life in general, and in the lives of some of the most celebrated practitioners of Zen. Uncompromising stuff towards a more profound level of awareness – steer to the deep! Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 This ta...
2011-11-261h 04
FBA HighlightsDharmabytes Podcast #39 - "Marking the New Name: Triratna Buddhist Community (2010)" by PadmavajraToday’s FBA Dharmabyte, “Marking the New Name: Triratna Buddhist Community”, is a short talk by Padmavajra (http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/audio/details?num=LOC377) before leading the seven-fold puja at the International Sangha Gathering, Taraloka, May 2010 marking our movement’s name from the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order to the Triratna Buddhist Community. The Community of the Three Jewels: The Buddha, The Dharma, and The Sangha.
We invite you to join us!
Subscribe to our podcasts here: http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/community/podcasts
And follow us on The Buddhist Centre Online: http://thebuddhistcentre.com/freebuddhistaudio
2011-06-0218 minFree Buddhist AudioAwake to the Cries of the WorldIn celebration of the 43rd anniversary of the founding of the Triratna Buddhist Community, (formally the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order) we bring you an moving and engaging talk by Subhuti: "Awake to the Cries of the World" the keynote talk from the FWBO celebrations a decade ago. How do we respond to the suffering in the world? Subhuti speaks from his experience of years trying to answer that question – the joys and pitfalls of trying to 'help' as part of a committment to the Bodhisattva Ideal. Complete with an introduction by Padmavajra on Avalokiteshvara. Talk given on FW...
2011-04-0949 minFree Buddhist AudioInitation into The Alchemy of LoveIn The Alchemy of Love Padmavajra explores the transformative magic that is Bodhichitta practice. A short introduction to the theme here – setting the context for the series and introducing us to Shantideva, whose treatise on Bodhichitta practice (the Bodhicharyavatara) forms the basis of the wonders to be explored Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004 This talk is part of the series The Alchemy of Love.
2011-03-2620 min
FBA HighlightsDharmabytes Podcast #8 - "Life is Too Short to Waste" by PadmavajraOur Dharmabyte today reminds us that "Life is Too Short to Waste." Brought to us by the dynamic and passionate Padmavajra from the talk titled “Death and Desire” (http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/audio/details?num=OM688B) part II of a three-part series titled “The Alchemy of Love” (http://www.freebuddhistaudio.com/series/details?ser=X28). Using Shantideva’s ‘Bodhicharyavatara’ as a root text, he brings us face to face with the big questions implicit in any life that seeks to embrace change and impermanence as facts of Reality.
Talk given at Padmaloka Retreat Centre, 2004
We invite you to join us!
Subscrib...
2011-02-2403 minFree Buddhist AudioThe Sound of RealityFabulous stuff from Padmavajra. This richly rewarding talk explores the place and function of sound in Buddhist practice and history, as well as within the speaker's own spiritual life. A wide-ranging cultural journey is made from John Coltrane to Sufi Qawwali, from mantra to Zen poetry, taking in Andre Gide, Renaissanace Neoplatonism and the ancient Pali Verses en route. Not to be missed! To help us keep this free, please think about making a donation.
2005-09-2857 min