Annie Bien has published two poetry collections, Plateau Migration, and Under Shadows of Stars, won a LISP flash fiction prize, an A3 Press Pamphlet prize for Messages from Under a Pillow which includes her illustrations. She is an English translator from Tibetan into English at 84000, teaches meditation and Qigong at Tibet House US. She is co-author with Robert Thurman on The Magical Adventures of the Sixth Dalai Lama: His Life and Loves. Tibet House US. www.anniebien.com/

Carolyn Sharp always knew she wanted a career in helping people. She earned a master of social work from Portland State University and has extensive training in atachment, neuroscience, trauma, and mindfulness. Today, she is an experienced couples therapist with twenty-fve years of training and practce in helping people build vital, vibrant, and secure functoning relatonships through one-on-one and group couples coaching, workshops, retreats, and intensives. She combines her passion for helping people with her widespread experience to create the healthiest and happiest relatonships possible. To learn more about Carolyn Sharp please follow her online: www.secureconnectionsretreats.com

Ganden Thurman is the Executive Director of Tibet House US and its upstate retreat and conference center, Menla. He has served in this capacity since 2014 after working as THUS’ Director of Special Projects from 1996-2013.

Tamala Floyd, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, IFS lead trainer, consultant, author, and speaker with over 25 years of experience.

She received a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California and an undergraduate degree in psychology from California State University–Long Beach. She has taught at the University of Phoenix and the University of Southern California in human services and social work.

Her work focuses on women’s trauma, mothering, and relationship issues, helping women identify and heal emotional wounds that impede their success and coaching them in achieving fulfilling life goals.  

Tamala leads workshops in the US and around the world.  She enjoys living as a Nomad – going with the flow.   For further information, go to:  tamalafloyd.com

Founder and executive director of the Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN), Osprey Orielle Lake works internationally with grassroots, BIPOC and Indigenous leaders, policymakers, and diverse coalitions to build climate justice, resilient communities, and a just transition.

She sits on the executive committee for the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature and on the steering committee for the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Osprey’s writing about climate justice, relationships with nature, women in leadership, cultural transformation and other topics has been featured in The Guardian, Earth Island Journal, The Ecologist, Ms. Magazine and many other publications. She is the author of the award winning book, The Story is in Our Bones: How Worldviews and Climate Justice Can Remake a World in Crisis.

Matteo began his spiritual journey over 30 years ago while living in Nepal and Tibet. Informed by his study of Buddhism, Vedanta, and Hatha Yoga, extensive periods of solitary meditation, and pilgrimages across sacred Himalayan landscapes, Matteo offers an engaged approach to ancient wisdom traditions. Matteo maintains a daily yoga asana, pranayama, and meditation practice.  

Matteo earned a Masters in Indian Philosophy from the University of London, and his writings have appeared in The Washington Post, BBC, Buddhadharma, Tricycle, Men’s Journal, Kyoto Journal, and HIMAL South Asia.

Matteo and his wife surf and ride mountaiin bikes from their home in Southern California. 

Photo of His Holiness the Dalai Lama via www.shutterstock.com.

“Geshe’s primary intention is to bring the ancient teachings of Bön and Buddhism to light, helping students reduce suffering and attain realization. His Kunsang Gar Wisdom program incorporates foundational philosophy and psychology, mental development, and the quintessential Dzogchen view. Developing an understanding of ancient scripts, Geshe is uniquely able to decipher and translate rare spiritual texts. It is his intention to preserve as many texts as possible. Geshe has published numerous books in Tibetan and has now begun making his teachings available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.”

-From Geshe Dangsong Namgyal's website Opening with an introduction to Geshe Dangsong Namgyal’s teaching activities, this episode includes an in-depth dialogue on Bön, Dzogchen, and Rime.

To learn more about the work and teachings of Geshe Dangsong Namgyal, please visit: www.dangsongnamgyallama.org.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text from Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” audio course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Manjushri Podcast thumbnail photo via www.shutterstock.com.

This podcast includes a discussion on how understanding selflessness leads beyond space-like equipoise samadhi to natural focus on universal love and compassion, intensifying the desire to be of benefit to oneself and all others. The episode concludes with a line reading of the first chapter of “The Holy Teaching of Vimalakirti Sutra,” with a discussion of the infinite multiverse and Buddha Lands (or Buddhaverses) as taught by the historical Buddha in his Mahayana Sutras, disclosing his Universal Vehicle of Buddhism.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text from Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” audio course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Podcast thumbnail photo via www.shutterstock.com.

This podcast includes an extended discussion on the influence of China and Chinese Communism upon Buddhism in Tibet and on Tibetan culture.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text from Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” audio course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Podcast Thumbnail Photo via www.shutterstock.com.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Podcast Thumbnail Photo via www.shutterstock.com.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com. Podcast Thumbnail Photo via www.shutterstock.com.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or the enlightenment reality itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com. Podcast Thumbnail Photo by Martijn Vonk on www.unsplash.com.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or enlightenment itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com. Podcast Thumbnail photo by Samuel Austin on Unsplash.com

This episode concludes with an in-depth discussion of Vipassana (Insight) & Samatha (Calm Abiding) meditation methods for those of all backgrounds and traditions.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

This podcast includes: a discussion of the commonalities of all faiths and religions, an in-depth exploration of the divine beings and protectors found in Christian and Buddhist traditions, and a heart-opening dialogue on love, the soul, the afterlife, and the non-dual nature of reality.

The episode concludes with an extended discussion of guardian angels and a guided meditation led by Lorna.

Spiritual teacher, international bestselling author and philanthropist Lorna Byrne has dedicated her life to remind humanity of the spiritual potential within us all. She is the author of seven best-selling books, including "Angels in My Hair", "A Message of Hope From the Angels", and "Angels at my Fingertips" and she has been published in more than 50 countries and 30 languages around the world. To learn more about the work of Lorna Byrne, please visit her website: www.lornabyrne.com.

This episode includes a short history of Buddhist ethics and schools across Asia and the establishment and development of Vajrayana Buddhism in Tibet.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or enlightenment itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Opening with a brief history of the original Thanksgiving festivals in Plymouth, this episode includes a deep dive into the nature of compassion from a Buddhist perspective and a call to action to develop wisdom and kindness in everyday life no matter what one's background, faith or tradition might be.

This podcast includes discussions of: the scientific nature of the Buddha’s teachings, the illusion-like nature of the appearance of reality, the three types of wisdom (wisdom born of learning, critical reflection, and meditative insight), and an explanation of the differences between Objective Selflessness and Subjective Selflessness.

Thurman concludes this episode with a guided Four Keys of Selflessness meditation weaving in the modern understanding of quantum physics and the scientific method.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Transcendent Wisdom, The Root of Liberation: Jewel Tree of Tibet - Ep. 311 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via www.shutterstock.com.

This podcast includes discussions of: the importance of the 2022 mid-term elections in the United States, the value of democratic institutions across the globe, and a short introduction to Thurman’s book, “Wisdom is Bliss: Four Friendly Fun Facts that Can Change Your Life”, now available from Hay House Publications.

“Robert Thurman’s Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or enlightenment itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas.”

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen “Basic Buddhism” Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

Episode includes an explanation of the yoga of positive evolutionary action and how acting transcendentally and shift our understanding of reality and emotional interrelationship with all beings, friend, foe, and neutral ones. Concludes with an overview of the Bodhisattva vow as taught by Shantideva for those of all backgrounds, faiths and traditions.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Mind Reform: Becoming the Engine of Happiness for All - Ep. 308 via www.shutterstock.com.

"Robert Thurman's Basic Buddhism is a collective series of five lectures he has given on Buddhism. In these lectures, Thurman patiently takes apart each jewel of Buddhism: the Buddha as the teacher of enlightenment, the Dharma as the teaching, or enlightenment itself, and the Sangha as the historical and current community of learners seeking to become Buddhas."

-Text From Better Listen Basic Buddhism

This episode is an excerpt from the Better Listen "Basic Buddhism" Audio Course. To learn more and to enjoy the full recording, please visit: www.betterlisten.com.

This podcast includes a discussion of nirvana and the emanation body (nirmanakaya) which is the form of the Buddha that appears in the world to teach people the path to liberation.

The episode concludes with an introduction to the Seven-Fold Precept of Mother Recognition and The Exchange of Self and Other and an extended Jewel Tree guided meditation using both.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Developing Bodhichitta - The Spirit of Enlightenment: Tibet's Wish Granting Jewel Tree - Ep. 306 Photo by Prakash Y via www.unsplash.com

Using the classical imagery of the covered, leaky and poisoned vessels, Thurman gives a teaching on the qualities needed to be an open-minded, determined and well-intended student of Buddha Dharma and of life.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from endorsement of “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Professor Thurman begins this podcast with an explanation of the Heart Sutra focusing on the the dialog between Shāriputra and Avalokiteśvara in the Buddha’s samadhi field, and it’s connection to Clear Light, Bliss, Relativity and how one can avoid absolutism when thinking about emptiness.

Podcast concludes with Professor Thurman explaining how the practice of reciting The Heart Sutra is the key to understanding its teaching as a tool for mind transformation. He also offers a reading of a passage introducing Samantabhadra Bodhisattva from the third book of The Flower Ornament Sutra, translated by Thomas Cleary.

“The Transcendent Wisdom Heart Sutra, known as The Heart Sutra in all Mahayana Buddhist countries, and The Heart of Wisdom in Tibet, is a concise expression of the profound vision of reality that is the root of liberation from suffering. Tibetan religious all know this by heart and chant is solemnly at the beginning of every ceremony. In addition to a prescription for enlightenment, they consider it the most powerful exorcism, purifier, and developer of merit as well of wisdom.”

Robert A.F. Thurman from Essential Tibetan Buddhism

Professor Thurman’s translation of the Heart Sutra can be found in his book, Essential Tibetan Buddhism, on page 171, under the chapter heading, “Practicing the Liberating Wisdom” though it has evolved a bit since then.

Using Machiel Klerk’s book Dream Guidance: Connecting to the Soul Through Dream Incubation, published by Hay House as a jumping off point, Machiel and Thurman in this episode engage in a discussion of lucid dreaming, dream yoga and how one from any faith, religion or background can explore one’s creativity and transform one’s relationship to their subconscious and to the world around them through mindfulness and compassion. Machiel's recent book emerges as a must-read to pursue these amazing experiences and skills for one's own spiritual growth.

Podcast includes an exploration of the Buddhist concept of the soul, emptiness and the nihilistic materialism driving the climate crisis.

This episode includes a recommendation of “Be Here Now” by Ram Dass and an in-depth exploration of non-duality, karma, causation and the Buddha’s evolutionary theory of biology.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

The Truth of Karma & Being Here Now Under The Wish Fulfilling Jewel Tree of Tibet - Ep. 302 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image of Atlas via www.shutterstock.com.

Using his classic book The Life and Teachings of Tsongkhapa (now available in a new edition by Wisdom Publications), Thurman discusses emptiness, non-duality, the myth of the Kali Yuga and coming of Shambhala, reincarnation and the Buddhist perspective on the soul.

This episode is excerpted from Thurman’s “Meditation and Psychedelics Series” interview with Dr. Philip Wolfson, MD. To learn more about the work of Dr. Wolfson and to watch the full talk, please visit: www.philwolfsonmd.com & www.youtube.com.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Atlas, Buddha & Letting The World Go: The Jeweled Treasure of Tibet Episode 300 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image of Atlas via www.shutterstock.com.

Joined by Dr. Mark Epstein, Thurman discusses the Mahāsatipatthāna Sutta’s connection to the Heart Sutra, the four focuses of mindfulness, the legacy of Wilhelm Reich, the practice of circumambulation of stupas and sacred sites, and the concept of the “good enough mother” as presented by D.W. Winnicott.

The four focuses of mindfulness in the sutta are the body, the sensations, the mind, and the mental objects, among which the last is the longest and most elaborated. In addition to meditating as directed, many of the elements used by the Buddha to aim and structure the meditations, such as the five aggregates, the eighteen elements, and the twelve sense-media, need to be explained and incorporated in mind in order to be able to meditatively follow the guidance effectively.

This podcast includes an in-depth exploration of Nirvana and the terminology used by Buddhist translators and concludes with a guided mindfulness meditation by Robert A.F. Thurman. “Mindfulness & The Mahasatipatthana Sutta – Ep. 299” podcast photo of Mueang Chiang Mai, Thailand by Robert A.F. Thurman from 2019 GeoEx Trip, All Rights Reserved.

Recorded and streamed online live from Tibet House US in New York City on March 22, 2019, this podcast is an excerpt from the "Force For Good" class series available as part of the Tibet House US | Menla Member Archives. To listen to the first half of this talk with Dr. Mark Epstein, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Recorded to celebrate the 87th Birthday of Tenzin Gyatso, the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Thurman begins with a linguistic exploration of the title of Dalai Lama to give an introduction to the rich history and culture of Tibet, of Buddhism and of the gods and divine pantheon used in the art and spiritual teachings of wisdom and compassion in Buddhist philosophy.

Song of Immortality Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the Dalai Lama

OM May all be well! O our gurus, and your line of lamas, for whom we have the deepest gratitude, You who are the repository of the three: secret powers of body, speech, and mind of innumerable buddhas, Who manifest in a miraculous way to each devotee according to his capacity, To you, who are the wish-fulfilling gems, the source of all virtues and good qualities, We offer our prayers with intense devotion That our protector of the great land of snows, Tenzin Gyatso, upholder of the Dharma, the great ocean, May he live for a hundred eons. Pour on him your blessings That his wishes may come true!

The dharmadhatu, the inexpressible reality, which pervades all things like the heavens, Immaculate, full of great bliss and transcendental wisdom, Manifests like a cloud the numberless abodes of the higher divinities, The mandalas of the heavenly beings. To all the higher forms of the divine ones, the yidams. We offer our prayers with intense devotion That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the great land of snows, May live for a hundred eons. Pour on him your blessings That his wishes may come true! O you numberless buddhas of the past, present, and future, Who are the masters of the ten powers and teachers of the gods, Whose attributes of perfection, free from defilements and born of realization, Are the source of the buddha-activity Which appears for all time in the ocean of the suffering of the world For the sake of all sentient beings. To you we offer our prayers with intense devotion That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the great land of snows, May live for a hundred eons. Pour on him your blessings That his wishes may come true! O sacred Dharmas of the three yanas That liberate us from the sufferings of the three worlds, Supremely calm, the jewel treasure of the fully enlightened ones, Without impurities, unchanging, eternally good, the peak of virtues, To you we offer our prayers with intense devotion That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the great land of snows, May live for a hundred eons. Pour on him your blessings That his wishes may come true! O all you arya Sangha, awakened and unsullied, Of highest valor in conquering the suffering of the wheel of life, With the transcendental wisdom that directly intuits the deeper truth Never departing from the indestructible vajra abode of nirvana, To you we offer our prayers with intense devotion That Tenzin Gyatso, protector of the great land of snows, May live for a hundred eons. Pour on him your blessings That his wishes may come true!

Opening with a discussion of the writings and work of Patrick Olivelle, Thurman gives a traditional Buddhist Dharma teaching on the interconnected blissful nature of reality, exploring the nurturing and transformative qualities of seeing the world as it actually is and the potential of all beings to end suffering through wisdom and compassion as the historical Buddha did.

This podcast includes recommendations of Kim Stanley Robinson’s hard science fiction book, “The Ministry of the Future”, and Heather Cox Richardson’s Substack.com newsletter as starting points for understanding the current climate crisis and the history behind the political roadblocks to sustainable change in America and by modern democracies.

This episode concludes with a four-point plan by Thurman for dealing with America’s current social and political chaos, the rise of fascism, and to transform the corrupting influences of oligarchies and petro-paths.

Opening with a line-by-line reading of the “Refuge Prayer” recited at the start of Buddhist teachings and practices, Thurman explains the nature of faith and how to develop one’s compassion and inner wisdom through the study of Buddha Dharma and the Buddha’s life story.

This episode includes a short history of Buddhism in India & Tibet and an extended Jewel Tree Refuge guided meditation.

“Tibetans call their cherished tradition of Buddhism a wish-fulfilling jewel tree for its power to generate bliss and enlightenment within all who absorb its teachings. This path to enlightenment, it is taught, requires more than a sitting meditation practice alone. With “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”, honored scholar and teacher Robert Thurman brings these insights to you as they were meant to be transmitted through the spoken word.”

– Text from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet”

This episode is an excerpt from “The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism” 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

Taking Refuge Under the Jewel Tree of Tibet - Ep. 296 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Refuge Field Image via www.himalayanart.org.

Saka Dawa, named for the star, Vishakha, prominent during the fourth month in the Tibetan lunar calendar, is almost the same as the Theravadin observance of Vesak. It is considered the most sacred month for remembering the great achievement of Shakyamuni Buddha in the 6th BCE century (earlier in the Tibetan calendar). H. H. the Dalai Lama and all Tibetan Buddhist monks and laity celebrate this holiday.

In this podcast Thurman gives an overview of the Buddhist holiday, a detailed accounting of the Buddha’s Enlightenment as revealed by Indian Buddhist Sanskrit literature and Tibet’s yogic tradition, and an explanation of the global impact of his wise compassionate teachings across history in modern culture.

Opening with a discussion of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, Thurman uses the statistics and background provided in Heather Cox Richardson’s Substack.com newsletter as a jumping off point to detail the history behind the dark money and organizations preventing sensible gun law reform in America.

This episode includes discussions of: the lack of loyal opposition in America's two party system, the history behind Grover Norquist’s Taxpayer Protection Pledge and the Americans for Tax Reform political lobbying organization, the Buddhist perspective on fierce compassion and non-violence, an eye-opening explanation of the rise of fascism in modern America, and a recommendation of “Dark Money: The Hidden History of the Billionaires Behind the Rise of the Radical Right” by investigative journalist Jane Mayer.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt cheerful and vigorous plea for mass media consumers to see through the persuasive propaganda delivered via right wing and conservative news channels like Fox News and ways to counter the “big lie” technique originally developed by Joseph Goebbels and leveraged by the Nazi party in Germany.

"Gun Violence in America: A Buddhist Perspective" Podcast Thumbnail by Andrii Koval, via www.shutterstock.com, All Rights Reserved.

- Text from "The Jewel Tree of Tibet"

This episode is an excerpt from "The Jewel Tree of Tibet: The Enlightenment Engine of Tibetan Buddhism" 12-Part audio retreat by Robert Thurman, available from www.soundstrue.com.

The Jeweled Treasure of Tibet: An Introduction & Overview of Buddhism - Ep. 293 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image of Lobzang Chokyi Gyaltsen, The Fourth Panchen Lama via www.himalayanart.org.

Using personal stories from his time teaching in academia and studying with His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Thurman reflects on the way that emptiness creates a space for love and compassion to flourish. This episode also includes an examination of the the term “womb of compassion” as found in Nāgārjuna’s “Jewel Rosary” connecting Buddha’s revolutionary physical discovery of emptiness/relativity with the wisdom that empowers the positive emotions of selfless love and compassion.

The Vimalakirti Sutra’s Inconceivable Liberation chapter (#6) is said to be a drop from the ocean of this multilevel set of presentations by the Buddha and many bodhisattvas, in which he demonstrates his permeation of the enlightened cosmos and the glory of the bodhisattva realms. For any Buddhist practitioner, particularly those of Vajrayana Buddhism and Zen, this Vimalakīrti-nirdesha Sūtra. is of the utmost importance. Unlike most sutras, its central figure is not a buddha, or even a monk, but an ordinary man, who, in his mastery of the teaching and spiritual practice, personifies the ideal human being, assuring regular people that they can reach levels of spiritual attainment comparable to those accessible to monks. The sutra opens the door to the meaning of non-duality. Thurman discusses the background of the sutra, its place in the development of Buddhist thought, and the profundities of its principal teaching: emptiness the womb of compassion.

"To any Buddhist practitioner, particularly those of Vajrayana Buddhism and Zen, this sutra is of the utmost importance. Unlike most sutras, its central figure is not a Buddha, but an ordinary man, who, in his mastery of the teaching and spiritual practice, personifies the ideal lay believer, assuring commoners that they can reach levels of spiritual attainment comparable to those accessible to monks. The sutra teaches, among other subjects, the meaning of non-duality. Thurman discusses the background of the sutra, its place in the development of Buddhist thought, and the profundities of its principal teaching: emptiness." -Text from "The Yoga of Ordinary Living"

Inconceivable Liberation and The Womb of Compassion - Ep. 292 is excerpted from “The Yoga of Ordinary Living” by Robert A.F. Thurman, Available via www.betterlisten.com.

"We are empty of any isolated essence, of any non-connected essence.We are free of such non-connected, isolated, alienated essence. That is what it means. Enlightenment is realizing that freedom at the deepest level. And therefore, enlightenment is realizing our inexorable interconnectedness. The vast space of reality is nothing but the surface of the interrelations of all things. All of the interconnected things are the reality of emptiness. Therefore emptiness, voidness, freedom are the womb of compassion, the sensitivity and will that refuses to accept anyone's suffering, that automatically wills everyone's happiness.

Emptiness is the womb of compassion, means that in realizing emptiness we are free of the illusion that we have carried from the beginning of time that I am the one."

-Robert Thurman

Womb Realm Mandala, Shingon Tantric Buddhist school, Heian period (794-1185), Tō-ji, Kyōto, Japan, via www.wikipedia.org.

Using personal anecdotes, statistics from Al Gore’s Climate Reality Project, as well as insights from the historical Buddha’s teachings and life story, Thurman weaves an inspiring call to action for intelligent beings of all faiths, backgrounds, political beliefs and stances.

This podcast includes: an extended re-telling of the Buddha’s enlightenment under the Bodhi tree, introductions to the histories of Earth Day, The Climate Reality Project and Tibet House US | Menla, as well as simple ways anyone, anywhere can employ to shift their perspective to begin making a difference both in their own lives and in their communities.

The episode concludes with an invitation to the Third Pole Hybrid Online & In-Person Conference, happening in the Fall of 2022 at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa as well as a frank discussion on the importance of direct engagement and democratic participation in saving the planet for this and all future generations.

About Earth Day:

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970.

In the decades leading up to the first Earth Day, Air pollution was commonly accepted as the smell of prosperity. Until this point, mainstream America remained largely oblivious to environmental concerns and how a polluted environment threatens human health.

However, the stage was set for change with the publication of Rachel Carson’s New York Times bestseller Silent Spring in 1962. The book represented a watershed moment, selling more than 500,000 copies in 24 countries as it raised public awareness and concern for living organisms, the environment and the inextricable links between pollution and public health.

Senator Gaylord Nelson, the junior senator from Wisconsin, had long been concerned about the deteriorating environment in the United States. Then in January 1969, he and many others witnessed the ravages of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Inspired by the student anti-war movement, Senator Nelson wanted to infuse the energy of student anti-war protests with an emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution. Senator Nelson announced the idea for a teach-in on college campuses to the national media, and persuaded Pete McCloskey, a conservation-minded Republican Congressman, to serve as his co-chair.

They recruited Denis Hayes, a young activist, to organize the campus teach-ins and they chose April 22, a weekday falling between Spring Break and Final Exams, to maximize the greatest student participation.

Text via the official Earth Day website: www.earthday.org.

To learn more about The Climate Reality Project, please visit: www.climaterealityproject.org.

To sign up to receive updates about the upcoming Tibet House US | Menla "Third Pole" in-person and online program, please visit: www.menla.org.

Joined by Eben Alexander, Sierra Campbell, Dr. Nida Chenagtsang, Deepak Chopra, Terri Daniel, Joan Halifax, Andrew Holecek, Lucy Kalanithi, Jussara Korngold, Simcha Raphael, Richard Martini, Gabor Maté, Frank Ostaseski, Mingyur Rinpoche, Therese Schroeder-Sheker, Alberto Villoldo, Henry Fersko-Weiss, and Jessica Zitter, this online event explores ancient and modern understandings of the art of dying and living through the lenses of different traditions, including Tibetan and Zen Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Judaic, and Shamanic.

To learn more about this historic event and to enjoy the study at your own pace archive course, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

The feature-length documentary from Compassionate Films will celebrate its world premiere in partnership with Fathom Events on March 31 at 800 participating theaters across the US. The date of the world premiere is very significant, as March 31 is the 63rd anniversary of the Dalai Lama’s escape from occupied Tibet in 1959.

The World Peace Prayer starts at 6.30pm for the special opening ceremony, prayers and short films, which will set the scene for what promises to be a powerful cinematic event unlike any seen before. Never Forget Tibet will premiere at 7pm.

To learn more about “Never Forget Tibet: The Dalai Lama’s Untold Story”, please visit: www.neverforgettibet.com

This episode concludes with an in-depth exploration of the qualities of ethical enlightened beings and Bodhisattvas and a call to action for solidarity for Tibet, Ukraine, Russia, China and the world’s democracies for dealing with the rise of petrol-based oligarchies fueling climate change.

Bodhisattvas & The Buddha On Defensive Wars: Remembering Tibet & The Ukraine - Ep. 287 of the Bob Thurman "Stand with Ukraine" Podcast image by Students for a Free Tibet.

Celebrating President Zelenskyy’s former career as a comedian, Robert Thurman makes a call to action for a world with more leaders with humor - and joy- based artistic and creative backgrounds, interconnecting recent world history, modern politics, climate science and the common sense compassion-based teachings of Buddha and all spiritual traditions.

This episode includes a recommendation of Bill Mckibben's recent article in The Guardian, an introduction to Buddhist history, cosmology, meditation practice and the concept of enlightenment, a discussion of mother earth as Bodhisattva, and a deep dive into the absolute and the relative.

It concludes with a teaching on the Buddhist and philosophical perspectives on: joy, love, bliss, and the infinite possibility of creating compassionate communities worldwide through developing inner and outer peace. Ukraine, Russia & The Buddha's Wisdom - Ep. 286 of the Bob Thurman podcast photo by Elena Mozhvilo on Unsplash.

The four focuses of mindfulness in the sutta are the body, the sensations, the mind, and the mental objects, among which the last is the longest and most elaborated. In addition to meditating as directed, many of the elements used by the Buddha to aim and structure the meditations, such as the five aggregates, the eighteen elements, and the twelve sense-mediums, need to be explained and incorporated in mind, in order to be able to meditatively follow the guidance effectively.

“My Early Years: Exploring The Mahāsatipatthāna Sutta – Episode 285 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded during Tibet House US | Menla’s “Mindfulness & the Mahayana: An In-Depth Exploration of the Mahasatipatthana Sutta” online course with Sharon Salzberg and Robert A.F. Thurman, available via www.thusmenla.org.

This podcast includes a recommendation of the work and teachings of Dr. Nida, personal reflections on translating and practicing Dzogchen and Vajrayana, and concludes with an in-depth explanation of the Five Aggregates.

Dr. Nida Chenagtsang is a traditional Tibetan physician and lineage holder of the Yuthog Nyingthig, the unique Vajrayana Buddhist spiritual healing tradition of Tibetan Medicine. He has published several books and articles on Tibetan medicine, meditation, and yoga, and his extensive research and revival of ancient Tibetan healing methods has earned him great acclaim in both East and West. Founder and Medical Director of the Sowa Rigpa Institute: School of Traditional Tibetan Medicine; Co-Founder of the International Ngakmang Institute, established to preserve and maintain the Rebkong ngakpa non-monastic yogi/ini culture within modern Tibetan society; and Co-Founder of Pure Land Farms: Center for Tibetan Medicine, Meditation and Rejuvenation in Los Angeles, California. In addition to his work as a physician, he trains students in Sowa Rigpa and the Yuthog Nyingthig tradition in over forty countries around the world.

Dzogchen’s Great Perfection & The Five Aggregates – Episode 284 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded during Tibet House US | Menla’s “The Great Connection: The Mahāsandhi Supreme Yoga of Dzogchen’s Great Perfection” online course with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang and Robert A.F. Thurman, available via www.thusmenla.org.

Opening with the Buddhist perspective on death and the bardo states outlined in the “The Tibetan Book of the Dead: The Great Book of Natural Liberation Through Understanding in the Between” this episode of the Bob Thurman podcast includes: a short history of non-violent philosophy and social action, an explanation of the central role of Thich Nhat Hanh’s personal interactions and friendships with Christian Theologians were to modern culture and interfaith dialog, and a discussion of the importance of monastic communities to the sustainability of traditions in the West and to the development of any new forms of a future American Buddhism.

Episode concludes with a humorous story of Thich Nhat Hanh’s time visiting Columbia University in New York City with a group of happy monks and a timeless guided gratitude meditation and contemplation of peace by Professor Thurman.

Thich Nhat Hanh – Podcast Photo of Teaching children to read and write using a song about the Bodhisattva of Great Compassion, Early 1960s via Plum Village, All Rights Reserved.

To lean more about the life and work of Thich Nhat Hanh please visit: www.plumvillage.org.

“Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh was a global spiritual leader, poet, and peace activist, renowned for his powerful teachings and bestselling writings on mindfulness and peace. A gentle, humble monk, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. called him “an Apostle of peace and nonviolence” when nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize. Exiled from his native Vietnam for almost four decades, Thich Nhat Hanh was a pioneer bringing Buddhism and mindfulness to the West, and establishing an engaged Buddhist community for the 21st Century.”

Opening with a refutation of Buddhism as a life-rejecting philosophy, this podcast includes a short explanation of the Buddha’s “supreme contemplation” with guided meditations on embracing transience and death and an exploration of how considering death to be a good thing can help simplify life and re-set your priorities.

The podcast also includes: an overview of the concept of reincarnation as understood across traditions, an introduction to the Buddhist perspective on emptiness and the interconnected, blissful nature of reality, a recommendation of the work, writings and teachings of Andrew Holecek, and a personal invitation to their on-going “Death and the Art of Dying Bardo” series of online teachings via Tibet House US | Menla Online at www.thusmenla.org.

This episode is an excerpt from Bob’s talk, “Facing Death to Come Fully Alive in the New Year” recorded with Andrew Holecek during the Tibet House US | Menla New Year’s gathering. To watch the full video discussion, please visit: www.teachable.com.

To learn more about Robert A.F. Thurman’s classic retreat audio recordings, please visit www.soundstrue.com or new audio book version of “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” by Penguin Audio, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

“Supreme Contemplation: Facing Death to Come Fully Alive” Podcast Photo via www.gratisography.com.

Opening with an introduction of Professor Kittay and his translation of The Vajra Rosary Tantra, Dr. Thurman uses his Wisdom Is Bliss: Four Friendly Fun Facts book as a roadmap for an exploration of their work together presenting and preserving Tibetan Culture through their teachings at Tibet House US, Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa, Columbia University and during time spent teaching general audiences across New York City and the world.

Dr. David Komodo Kittay teaches philosophy, religion, and technology at Columbia, where his courses are called life changing, translates exoteric and esoteric Buddhist texts, serves as a Tibet House US Board member, and founded The Harlem Clemente Course for the Humanities at the Drew Hamilton Houses on 143rd St. His latest publication is The Vajra Rosary Tantra, available from Wisdom Publications.

A Tibet House US | Menla Conversation with David Kittay – Ep. 281 of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the Tibet House US Menla Online hybrid talk “Wisdom Is Bliss” with Robert Thurman and David Kittay, December 2021 in New York City.

To watch the full video version and to learn about upcoming events with Dr. David Kittay, please visit: www.thus.org.

Image by Amanda Sage. All Rights Reserved via www.amandasagecollection.com.

Opening with the Dalai Lama’s four aims in life and an introduction to the Vajra Yoga teacher training, this episode includes: an everyday, middle way approach to stress and anger for those of any background, a short history of the Nalanda Tradition, and an in-depth exploration of the connections between Shantideva’s “Guide to the Bodhisattva Way of Life” and the Bhagavad Gita.

Podcast also includes: a discussion of the evolution of the terminology and understanding of karma, moksha and of the self-identifiers of those in Buddhist communities and students of the yogic inner sciences of transformation, an overview of Buddhist Tantra and its relationship to Hinduism, Vedanta, and Shamanism, and a teaching on the non-dual discovery of the blissful nature of reality by Buddha and enlightened beings across all time and traditions.

The Vajra Yoga series of trainings is an intensive online and in-person program that includes study and contemplation of traditional texts and practices from Indian and Tibetan traditions, including but not limited to The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali and selected Pāli Suttas, and the Vimalakirti and Flower Ornament Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita and the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Mañjushrī-nāma-saṁgītī, the Tibetan Book of the Dead, and various works by Nāgārjuna, Paadmasambhava, Naropa, Yutok Yonten Gonpo, Jey Tsong Khapa and the Dalai Lama.

To learn more about this on-going offering, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Bridging Body, Mind & Breath with Yoga Wisdom – Ep. 280 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via www.himalayanart.org.

Hey Noble Ones: Jesus, Avalokiteshvara and All Buddhas - Ep. 279 of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded during the on-going Tibet House US | Menla Online “Bardo” teachings with Andrew Holecek, available via www.teachable.com.

To learn more about Robert A.F. Thurman’s classic retreat audio recordings, please visit www.soundstrue.com or new audio book version of “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” by Penguin Audio, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Recorded during the “Devoted to Wisdom” in-person and online gathering with Krishna Das this episode opens with a question from Nina Rao about Thurman and the Padma Shri civilian award of the Republic of India given to him by the President of India for his lifelong exploration of the teachings of Buddhism, Hinduism and Shantideva.

Podcast includes an extended guided meditation on the practice of loving-kindness and the equal exchange of self and other.

Illustration from “Shantideva: How to Wake Up A Hero” by Dominique Townsend & Tenzin Norbu by Wisdom Publications. All rights reserved, Used with Permission.

This episode is an excerpt from “Devoted to Wisdom: Celebrating Buddhism and Bhakti Wisdom Online Retreat” with Robert Thurman & Krishna Das. To enjoy the full digital offering, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Opening with an introduction to the Bodhisattva’s Path, Professor Thurman gives an extended teaching on generosity using his book “Wisdom Is Bliss: Four Friendly Fun Facts That Can Change Your Life”, detailing its connection to political and personal activism, ethics, ecology, and creative expression.

Podcast includes: A discussion of nature of dictators, fascism and materialism, a recommendation of the work of Heather Cox Richardson, and an invitation to discover the blissful, interconnected and interdependent nature of reality through everyday acts of kindnesses.

In this episode Robert Thurman and Philip Goldberg share reflections on: the San Francisco Renaissance, the effect of the counter culture of the 1950s on modern spirituality and stories from their time in India, and lessons from studying Buddhist and Transcendental meditation.

Podcast Includes a discussion of the 75th publication anniversary of Paramahansa Yogananda’s “Autobiography of a Yogi“, a short history of The Esalen Institute and the value of personal study and reading to any spiritual tradition or path of transformation.

Episode concludes with an extended dialogue on the connections between Buddhism, Vedanta, and writings of the Transcendentalist and Beat Poets, and the Dalai Lama’s Four Aims in Life.

Philip Goldberg is the an author, public speaker and workshop leader; a spiritual counselor, meditation teacher and ordained Interfaith Minister. A Los Angeles resident, he co-hosts the Spirit Matters podcast, leads American Veda Tours, conducts online courses and workshops, and blogs regularly on Elephant Journal and Spirituality & Health.

To learn more, please visit: www.philipgoldberg.com.

Opening with a recommendation of Laura’s book “Dálvi: Six Years in the Arctic Tundra“, Robert Thurman leads a dialog exploring the value of contemplation, study, writing, and why supporting the remaining nomadic cultures of Tibet, Mongolia, Russia, and Scandinavian is vital to planetary survival in the face of the climate crisis.

Drawing inspiration from their time studying languages, time spent communing with nature through hiking, wilderness exploration and animal care giving, Bob and Laura in this podcast explore the rich traditions of the Sámi, The First Peoples of Canada, and the indigenous cultures of Tibet and the Americas.

To learn more about “Dálvi: Six Years in the Arctic Tundra“, and the work of Laura Galloway, please visit: www.authorlauragalloway.com.

Using stories from his time teaching at Columbia & Amherst Universities, and from his time studying with Geshe Wangyal, Tara Tulku, and His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Bob Thurman discusses the value of developing critical wisdom, intuition and compassion and supportive behavior during the death process and in our daily lives.

Starting with defining what a Buddha is from a Non-Buddhist perspective, podcast includes a guided meditation on emptiness and an in-depth examination of causality.

“Chicken and the Egg: Bardos, Buddhas and Buddhist Cosmology”  – Ep. 273 of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded during the on-going Tibet House US | Menla Online “Bardo” teachings with Andrew Holecek, available via www.teachable.com.

To learn more about Robert A.F. Thurman’s classic retreat audio recordings, please visit www.soundstrue.com or new audio book version of “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” by Penguin Audio, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Chicken and the Egg: Bardos, Buddhas and Buddhist Cosmology Photo via www.gratisography.com.

Podcast includes an in-depth exploration of the eight-fold fold path and four noble truths, an introduction to Professor Thurman’s book “Wisdom Is Bliss: Four Friendly Fun Facts That Can Change your Life” and his “Vajra Yoga Practice Through the Buddha’s Three Vehicles: 18 Week Immersion” presented by the Yoga Space and Tibet House US | Menla Online.

From the course description:

“During the days of Patāñjali, the Buddhist mendicant and lay Sangha Community was omnipresent in his neighborhood, as witnessed by the many practices and concepts shared by the Buddhist Sutras and his own amazing, famous Yoga Sutra.

Understanding the essence of the Buddha’s practical teachings and their contributions to the universal values based on the general Indian Inner Science (adhyātmavidyā) enables today’s yogi/nīs to connect to Patāñjali’s wisdom, more easily integrating its vision with the compassionate mindset it automatically unfolds. It also helps contextualise the teachings of the Great Adepts (mahāsiddha) of India, the many non-sectarian master yogi/nīs of Buddhism, Jainism, Shaivism and Vaishnavism.

Fully aligned with His Holiness’s the Dalai Lama commitments in life, this course will show how practical the Buddha’s teachings are, how closely they relate to the wisdom of yoga, and how compassion can be an effective and efficient tool in re-building contemporary societal structures.

This Master Class will support the teachings in the Teacher Training course and allow an inclusive exploration of spirit, mind, and body yoga to develop true inner wisdom and help on the path to enlightenment.

This is an extensive 18 Week Fall/Winter course, which will include guided meditative talks and transmissions from Tenzin Bob on the inner wisdom found in the Individual, Universal, and Vajra Clearlight Vehicles of Buddhism. It can be also be taken as a stand-alone introduction to the advanced Vajra Yoga course sequence.

Course includes 12 seminal talks and guided meditations on each vehicle, accessible on Mondays and Wednesdays, paralleled by concise readings, for students to meditate on and study the yogic insights on each level. Students will meet each Thursday with Tenzin Bob for a Live Zoom Q&A.

To learn more about this online offering, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

The Four Noble Truths & Buddha’s Three Vehicles with Robert Thurman photo by Raimond Klavins.

“In this passionate, incisive, and often hilarious joyride of the mind and spirit, Thurman explores: mindful communities as “enlightenment factories” and how they have sparked “inner” revolutions throughout history; the Buddha’s philosophy of life, liberty, and the pursuit of real happiness; how compassion and nonduality spur social action; the vision of sacred texts for the future of humanity; and much more.”

Podcast includes a short history of the Three Vehicles of Buddhism and to the Four Noble Truths.

Recorded during the San Francisco Zen Center’s Buddhism at Millennium’s Edge year long series, Millennial Consciousness: Bliss & Buddhaverses – Ep. 271 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted “Making the World We Want” by Robert A.F. Thurman, Available via www.audible.com.

“The Vimalakirti Sutra teaches a nondualistic wisdom and reconciliation of dichotomies. It challenges ordinariness and reveals systematic and effective ways of tapping higher potentials while upholding one’s usual responsibilities and enriching long-term relationships.

Robert Thurman examines one of the most sacred texts of Mahayana Buddhism, The Vimalakirti-nirdesha Sutra. To any Buddhist practitioner, particularly those of Vajrayana Buddhism and Zen, this sutra is of the utmost importance. Unlike most sutras, its central figure is not a Buddha, but an ordinary man, who, in his mastery of the teaching and spiritual practice, personifies the ideal lay believer, assuring commoners that they can reach levels of spiritual attainment comparable to those accessible to monks. The sutra teaches, among other subjects, the meaning of non-duality Thurman discusses the background of the sutra, its place in the development of Buddhist thought, and the profundities of its principal teaching: emptiness.”

In The Garden of Amrapali: Buddhism and the Multiverse is excerpted from “The Yoga of Ordinary Living” by Robert A.F. Thurman, Available via www.betterlisten.com.

Through THUS | Menla’s sponsorship, this app will allow you to make donations to directly sponsor the medical training of aspiring Tibetan doctors at the Men-Tsee-Khang in India!

Men-Tsee-Khang is the largest and oldest Tibetan Medical & Astro-science Institute, established in Tibet by HH the XIII Dalai Lama in 1916 and re-established by the XIV Dalai Lama in India in 1961.

To educate each doctor it costs $5000, plus $500 in administrative and other fees. When you choose to use the Medicine Buddha app you are supporting a 100% Tibetan employed team and helping to expand the influence and reach of Tibetan culture internationally.

We thank you for your generous support, if you cannot donate, please share this podcast episode and download the free ap.

Every share, download, mention and donation helps!

Robert Thurman examines one of the most sacred texts of Mahayana Buddhism, The Vimalakirti-nirdesha Sutra. To any Buddhist practitioner, particularly those of Vajrayana Buddhism and Zen, this sutra is of the utmost importance. Unlike most sutras, its central figure is not a Buddha, but an ordinary man, who, in his mastery of the doctrine and religious practice, personifies the ideal lay believer, assuring commoners that they can reach levels of spiritual attainment comparable to those accessible to monks. The sutra teaches, among other subjects, the meaning of non-duality Thurman discusses the background of the sutra, its place in the development of Buddhist thought, and the profundities of its principal doctrine: emptiness.

This episode is an excerpt from “The Yoga of Ordinary Living” by Robert A.F. Thurman, Available via www.betterlisten.com.

Dr. Eric Rosenbush has devoted his life to the study of the traditional sciences of Asia, their botanical treasures, ancient texts and living transmissions. For over 20 years, he has studied with masters of Tibetan, Chinese, and Ayurvedic medicines, and currently maintains a clinical practice in California. Eric frequently teaches courses on Sowa Rigpa and other ancient sciences in many locations around the world, and translates medical texts from the Tibetan and Sanskrit languages.

Under Dr. Nida Chenagtsang and other senior Tibetan doctors in the US and Asia, Eric learned the practice of Sowa Rigpa, Traditional Tibetan medicine. In addition to Masters and Doctoral university studies in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, Eric studied with senior practitioners working with classical traditions of Chinese herbal medicine and pulse diagnosis. He also lived in India for many years, studying and practicing Ayurveda, Jyotish, and Hindustani music.

In additional to clinical practice and teaching, Eric is also involved with various charitable projects, directing the Ngakmang Foundation, a nonprofit organization working in Tibet to preserve the lineage of Ngakpas – Tibetan yogis, supporting Sowa Rigpa education in Nepal, and other projects in the Himalayan regions. In 2006 with Dr. Nida he founded what would become the Sorig Institute of Tibetan Medicine in the San Francisco Bay Area. From 2015, Eric mostly lived in tropical and alpine areas of India, working with the Dunagiri Foundation cultivating threatened medicinal plants and treating patients.

For more information about Eric please visit: www.gunanatha.com.

Opening with an overview of the architecture used in the design of Buddhist Tantric mandalas Robert Thurman uses personal stories, popular culture and world history to demystify the intricate tools of inner and outer transformation they contain.

“Mandala is an ancient Sanskrit word meaning “sacred circle that protects the soul.” It also refers to the sacred cosmograms that serve as core symbols of all cultures. Westerners have been fascinated for centuries about the mandalas of the Hindu-Buddhist cultures of Asia, most often painted geometric diagrams of great beauty and sophistication, that draw the viewer into a realm of balance, harmony, and calm. But such diagrams are actually architectural blueprints of the purified realm of bliss that we can only realize through enlightenment. They represent three-dimensional spaces of personal and communal exaltation, palaces for the regal confidence of love, compassion, and universal satisfaction of self and other. Understanding their role in anchoring the world-picture of a culture or a person provides a new insight into the “mandalas” of our own culture – the national space anchored by the Washington monument and its environs, or the personal cosmological space anchored by the models of the solar system, the DNA double-helix molecule, and the atom.”

-Robert A.F. Thurman

This episode is an excerpt from “World Mandala” by Robert A.F. Thurman, Available via www.betterlisten.com.

The podcast includes: an exploration of the history of holistic healing in the West and its relationship to Yoga, Ayurveda and Tibetan Medicine; a discussion of the interrelationship of Vajrayana, tantra and the ancient wisdom traditions of India, Tibet, China, Japan, and South East Asia; and personal stories from their encounters with His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Yeshi Dhonden, Geshe Wangyal, and the Aghori Vimalananda.

Dr. Robert E. Svoboda is the first Westerner ever to graduate from a college of Ayurveda and be licensed to practice Ayurveda in India. During and after his formal Ayurvedic training Robert was tutored in Ayurveda, Yoga, Jyotish, Tantra and other forms of classical Indian lore by his mentor, the Aghori Vimalananda. The author of more than a dozen books, including the bestseller “Ayurveda: Life, Health and Longevity and Ayurveda for Women”, he lived in India for more than a decade, after which he has continued to spend much of each year there and in other lands.

To learn more about the work and teachings of Dr. Robert Svoboda, please visit his website: www.drsvoboda.com.

Recorded on Chokhor Duchen to celebrate the Buddha’s Heart Sutra or Prajnaparamita teaching, The Four Noble Truths they contain, and the launch of Professor Thurman’s new book “Wisdom Is Bliss: Four Friendly Fun Facts That Can Change Your Life” Available from Hay House on August, 3rd, 2021.

This episode explores the Four Noble Truths as a joyful exploration into the nature of reality through Buddha’s threefold curriculum of “super-education” and the Eight Fold Path.

From the book:

“Buddha had to be an educator, rather than a prophet or religion founder, since he had achieved his goal of exact and complete understanding of reality by using reason, experiments to open his own mind, and vision to do so. From his own experience, he could help [others] as a teacher by streamlining the process. He could not just transplant his realization into their minds. They could not get their own realizations just by believing whatever he said. He could only provide them with a prospect of full realization along a path of learning and experiencing they could follow-they would have to travel on their own.

This book is your invitation to travel that same road. Deeply felt and bracingly direct, it doesn’t teach about the teaching-it is the teaching. Get ready to get real, and have fun along the way, as you chart a path to reliable, lasting happiness.”

To learn more about “Wisdom is Bliss”, Available as a Kindle E-Book and in hardcover through Hay House, Please visit www.bobthurman.com.

Four Fun Friendly Facts: Four Noble Truths Thumbnail via www.himalayanart.org.

Opening with a recommendation of Khentrul Rinpoche’s “The Realm of Shambhala A Complete Vision for Humanity’s Perfection” Professor Thurman interviews the third incarnation of the Kalachakra adept Ngawang Chözin Gyatso about his personal experiences as a reincarnate Tulku teaching and leading the inspiring non-sectarian movement of Buddhism down under in exile in Australia.

Podcast includes: a short overview of Kalachakra translations and practice, an introduction to the myth and symbolism of the Kingdrom of Shambhala, a discussion of Bodhichitta and the difficulty of translating Western materialist concepts of spirituality, religion and creator gods into Tibetan.

To enjoy the full video please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

To enjoy the full video please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Opening with an exploration of Yab Yum & Yum Yab iconography, this podcast includes personal reflections on translating and practicing Dzogchen and Vajrayana.

Episode concludes with a recommendation of the work and writings of Elaine Pagels and of “The Tara Tantra” Translated by Susan A. Landesman.

This podcast is a continuation of “A Tibet House US Menla Conversation with Tsultrim Allione & Bob Thurman” – Episode 258 of the Bob Thurman Podcast. To enjoy the full converation, please visit: www.bobthurman.com

Opening with an introduction to Tsultrim Allione’s “Wisdom Rising: Journey into the Mandala of the Empowered Feminine” Professor Thurman leds an exploration of her ground breaking work and of the female reincarnate Machig Labdrön tradition it arises from. This extended conversation includes stories from their time with H.H. the 14th Dalai Lama, H.H. the 16th Karmapa, Trungpa Rinpoche, Sapchu Rinpoche, Lama Thupten Yeshe, Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Geshe Wangyal & Anam Thubten Rinpoche and from their many years of personal practice.

Podcast includes discussions of: Reincarnation, Re-Birth and the Rinpoche or Tulku system, the effect of the Chinese invasion of Tibet upon the availability and longevity of Tibetan Buddhist wisdom teachings, and of the central role of women within Tanta and in societies across the ages.

Episode concludes with a recommendation of the work and writings of Elaine Pagels and of “The Tara Tantra” Translated by Susan A. Landesman.

Audio Updated: April 29th, 2021

Opening with a discussion of Fintan O’Toole’s “To Hell with Unity” New York Review essay on the political dead lock being faced by President Biden, Professor Thurman explores the history of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the economic underpinnings of the American Civil War, the legacy of the failed Reconstruction efforts afterwards in Jim Crow laws, mass incarceration and systemic racism.

Podcast Includes: An overview of Buddhist history and introduction to Buddhism’s inner sciences, a discussion of the need for Loyal Opposition in modern Democracies, an exploration of Constitutional originalism and textualism used by Conservative and Right-Wing politicians, and a recommendation of Michelle Alexander’s “The New Jim Crow” and on-going work of Heather Cox Richardson.

This episode includes a call to action for all individuals to develop their own innate wisdom and fierce compassion to stand up to division, inequality, erroneous statements, false claims and “fake news” when ever they are encountered. 

Recorded during the annual Tibet House US | Menla New Year’s gathering, this episode is an extended teaching on Tanaduk-the Medicine Buddha’s Pure Land and the symbolism of Buddhist healing sciences intended for those of any background or tradition.

Opening with a short introduction to “The Four Tantras” the root text used by Traditional Tibetan Medical colleges, this episode includes: introductions to Mandala practice and creation, to Buddhist Sutras and Tantras and in-depth discussions of the specific imagery found within The Blue Beryl. Used as a memorization tools, The Blue Beryl: Atlas of Tibetan Medicine paintings were commissioned by the 5th Dalai Lama‘s Spiritual son Ghamtso Gyatso (1645-1705), and illustrate the physical symptoms, disease, treatment, medicinal herbs & plants used by Tibetan doctors.

To learn more about the work of Dr. Nida and Tanaduk, The Medicine Buddha’s Pure Land, please visit www.purelandfarms.com.

To enjoy the full video teaching, streamed January 3rd, 2020 as part of the Tibet House US | Menla Online virtual retreat “Envisioning 2021”, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Opening with a discussion of Andrew’s perspective on lucid dreaming, this episode explores the bardo states, terminology of meditative states and the practical lessons passed down through the “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” teachings and by wisdom traditions across the ages.

Focusing on the transformational inner and outer yoga teachings and blissful states of everyday life, Thurman and Holecek share personal stories from their time studying, teaching and writing about Buddhism, providing practical advice for people of all backgrounds, faiths and religions.

The episode concludes with an interfaith “everyone loves enlightenment” teaching by Bob, plus recommendations for adapting the visualization practices, descriptions when reading the mis-titled “Tibetan Book of the Dead”.

Everyone Loves Enlightenment: Lucid Living, Dying and Dreaming is excerpted from the “Journey into the Bardos of Life and Beyond” with Robert A.F. Thurman and Andrew Holecek. This introductory talk was originally broadcasted May 2020 from Phoenicia, New York. To learn more about the on-going “Death and the Art of Dying” Tibet House US Menla Online series, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Opening with reflections on the Covid-19 pandemic, Professor Thurman and Duncan in this extended conversation, share stories, teachings and insights from their time on and off the stage and from their encounters with exceptional beings such as His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Ram Das, their wives and families.

Episode includes: A discussion of the role of mentors and aspirational figures on the spiritual path, a short overview of the history of Tibet, Buddhism and mindfulness practice in the West, an introduction to non-duality, Buddhist inner mind sciences and a frank conversation on the historical use of mind and body altering substances found across world traditions.

Podcast includes a short “Consolation Prize” guided meditation led by Robert Thurman.

Opening with a discussion of Charles Eisenstein’s essay “The Coronation” and the impact of the Covid-19 global pandemic, this episode is an all levels introduction to clear light and dream yoga, bardo states and the practical lessons passed down through the “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” teachings and by wisdom traditions across the ages.

Focusing on the transformational teachings of Buddhist inner sciences, Professor Thurman and Dr. Holecek share personal stories from their time studying Buddhism with His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, Dr Nida Chenagtsang,Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche, and Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, providing practical advice for anyone of any background, faith or religion.

Episode concludes with a guided Menla clear light sleep meditation.

Mindfulness, Responsibility and The Middle Way: Tibetan Book of the Dead with Andrew is excerpted from the “Journey into the Bardos of Life and Beyond” with Robert A.F. Thurman and Andrew Holecek introductory talk, originally broadcasted May 2020 from Phoenicia, New York. To learn more about the on-going “Death and the Art of Dying” Tibet House US Menla Online series, please visit: www.thusmenla.org.

Jessica Pimentel is a practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism in the Gelugpa tradition and studied under the former abbot of Sera Mey Monastery, H.E. Sermey Khensur Rinpoche Lobsang Tharchin. She is also a graduate of the High School for the Performing Arts in New York City and the prestigious American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, where she was a member of the professional acting company. She has traveled around the United States and Japan as both a classical violinist and lead singer of metal band Alekhine’s Gun. She was in the American Stage production of the Pulitzer prize winning play Anna in the Tropics and in the Shakespeare Theater’s production of a A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings adapted by Nilo Cruz.

This podcast is apart of the Tibet House US Conversations series of dialogues between Bob Thurman & the leading hearts, minds & personalities bringing the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Tibet into the modern mindful and compassionate revolution. The Tibet House US Menla Online (THUS MO) Conversations are produced through the generous support of it’s membership community and are a part of the digital member archive made available as a part of becoming a monthly supporter.

Opening with a discussion of Kiri Westby’s “Fortune Favors The Brave: An Extraordinary Memoir” and work with communities in Nepal, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia, and in the United States, Robert Thurman uses her page turning book as guide, exploring the history of modern grassroots movements, feminism and the rise of second generation Buddhists in the West.

Recounting her part in the historic “One World, One Dream, Free Tibet” 2008 Beijing Olympics Protest action and her time spent in Chinese custody, Kiri Westby shares her perspective on the role of the individual and value of direct action, continuing education and community engagement in creating sustainable positive change.

Podcast includes: discussions of birth, re-birth and reincarnation and the history of Non-Violent political movements.

This podcast is apart of the Tibet House US Conversations series of dialogues between Bob Thurman & the leading hearts, minds & personalities bringing the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Tibet into the modern mindful and compassionate revolution. The Tibet House US Menla Online (THUS MO) Conversations are produced through the generous support of it’s membership community and are a part of the digital member archive made available as a part of becoming a monthly supporter.

Opening with a heart-to-heart message to his listeners about the impact of global pandemic safety precautions, Thurman gives a teaching on the inclusive nature of the Buddha’s non-violent movement and calls on all voting-aged citizens of the world to become engaged in the New Year.

Podcast includes: a discussion of the innovative nature of American arts, culture, and politics; a yogic perspective on the influence of Jazz, Rock and Roll and popular dance; an introduction to “The Edicts of Ashoka”; an extended exploration of the nature of corruption; the rise of fascism in Western democracies and the dangers of continued corporate political influence upon the Earth’s ecosystems.

Episode includes a call to action for the creation of a network of political lobbying groups for and by the rainbow of marginalized groups and peoples of America and for the immediate payment of reparations for Native and Black Americans.

This week’s episode includes with a special invitation to “Envisioning 2021: Celebrate the New Year with Dharma, Yoga, Music, Meditation, & Astrology” hosted by Tibet House US Menla Online happening Dec 29th, 2020 – Jan 3rd, 2021.

Crazy Horse National Monument image via www.unsplash.com.

Examining the common practice of cultures centering winter and end of year holidays around the moment the north pole is farthest from the sun, Thurman opens this episode with a teaching on the astronomical, etymological and spiritual history of winter solstices for those of all backgrounds, faiths and traditions..

Podcast includes: an introduction to “The Edge of History” by William Irwin Thompson founder of Lindisfarne Association; a short exploration of Albert Schweitzer’s perspective on human and animal souls; discussion of the connections between the wise men visiting Jesus in the New Testament and the nomadic cultures of Asia; and a personal reflection on the lure of holiday marketing, consumerism, messiahs and messianic movements

This week’s episode concludes with a special invitation to “Envisioning 2021: Celebrate the New Year with Dharma, Yoga, Music, Meditation, & Astrology” hosted by Tibet House US Menla Online happening Dec 29th, 2020 – Jan 3rd, 2021.

Describing India as “the original melting pot”, Professor Thurman shares his personal reflections on the wise and compassionate perspectives and tools to be found in Buddhism on the global Corona pandemic, the climate crisis, political polarization, voter disenfranchisement and online social distancing that can empower those of any background, faith, or religious affiliation.

This episode includes: a short re-telling of the “Song of the Cowherd”, or the love story of Krishna and Radha, an in-depth exploration of the Four Noble Truths, the Eight Fold Path, and other essential concepts taught by the historical Buddha, easy to understand introductions of non-duality, karma and the subtle body systems of the inner mind sciences, and a teaching on the tenfold karmic evolutionary path found throughout Indian and Asian traditions.

This week’s episode concludes with an extended “Counting Your Blessings” guided meditation.

“Celebrating Love and Poetry During the Coronapocalypse” is a part of “Turning the Wheel of Time An Online Retreat” with Jai Dev Singh and Robert A.F. Thurman, now available online through the Life-force Academy. To learn more about this Seven Part Series, please visit: www.jaidevsingh.com.

Image via Obama White House Archives, All Rights Reserved. www.obamawhitehouse.archives.gov

Opening this week's episode with an introduction to the Buddhism's ritual bell and dorje, Professor Thurman guides listeners through an overview of their symbolism and relationship to the transformational tools, insights and perspectives offered by the Buddha and the Buddhist philosophy.

This week's podcast includes: An examination of the dangers of materialism, absolutism and nihilism, A short introduction to the Nalanda Tradition, A guided meditation to inspire and expand imaginative creative and critical thinking, A discussion of the effects of popular media and the value of appreciating fictional entertainment and the need for more films, books and music which help individuals develop the innate wisdom and compassion found in all human beings.

Podcast concludes with an extended guided meditation and a call to action to examine the negative, self defeating and delusional narratives passed down by modern Western consumer culture.   

Questioning Buddhism: Sharon Salzberg and Bob Thurman - Ep. 246 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded during the live online event “Saturday Night Live Q & A Dialogue“, October 24th, 2020.

To learn more about the work and teachings of Sharon Salzberg, please visit her website: www.sharonsalzberg.com.

This podcast is a part of the Tibet House US Conversations series of dialogues between Bob Thurman and the leading hearts, minds and personalities bringing the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Tibet into the modern mindful and compassionate revolution. The Tibet House US | Menla Online (THUS MO) Conversations are produced through the generous support of it’s membership community and are a part of the digital member archive made available as a part of becoming a monthly supporter.

Questioning Buddhism: Sharon Salzberg and Bob Thurman - Ep. 246 of the Bob Thurman Podcast image via www.wellcomecollection.org.

Robert A.F. Thurman gives a close line reading and recitation of his classic translation of the “Tibetan Book of the Dead” for listeners of all faiths, backgrounds or experience. Using stories from the Nalanda tradition's Tilopa and from his time studying with Geshe Wangyal, Tara Tulku, and His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Bob Thurman discusses the value of positive intention, life-affirming action and supportive behavior during the death process and in our daily lives.

This episode includes an in depth teaching on Buddhist Bodhisattvas and angelic beings and responds to questions about the ethics of the art of dying.

Recorded during the on-going Tibet House US | Menla Online “Bardo” teachings.

To learn more about Robert A.F. Thurman’s new audio book version of “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” by Penguin Audio, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Opening with a recommendation of “Preparing to Die: Practical Advice and Spiritual Wisdom from the Tibetan Buddhist Tradition” by Andrew Holecek and a lively Carlos Castaneda story, Robert A.F. Thurman gives a close line reading and recitation of his classic translation of the “Tibetan Book of the Dead” for listeners of all faiths, backgrounds or experience. Using the stories of from the Nalanda Tradition’s Tilopa and from his time studying with Geshe Wangyal, Tara Tulku, and His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, Bob Thurman discusses value of positive intention, life affirming action and supportive behavior during the death process and in our daily lives.

Podcast includes: an explanation of the restorative sleep yoga and clear light meditations, introductions to the Buddhist perspectives on emptiness, non-duality, and nihilism, an exploration of the interconnected nature of the mind, the subtle body, bliss and emptiness and an extended teaching on the place of congratulatory rejoicing in spiritual transformation and self improvement practices.

Recorded during the on-going Tibet House US | Menla Online “Bardo” teachings this episode includes: a discussion on the differences between Pundits and Siddhas across Indian and Tibetan history, an introduction to the transformative power of generosity and Buddha-verses during Professor Thurman’s classic Jim Belushi “Food Fight Universe” and clear light meditations.

To learn more about Robert A.F. Thurman’s new audio book version of “Liberation Through Understanding in the Between: Tibetan Book of the Dead” by Penguin Audio, please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Introducing the philosophies of yoga, dualist and nondualist, Shiva and Kalachakra Yogas through personal stories and line translations, this episode includes: an overview of Basic Buddhism, through the Tipitaka or “Pali Canon”, the three baskets or bodies of scriptue the Vinaya, Sutta, and the  “Three Higher Educations" or Trisiksa of Ethics, Meditation and development of wisdom.

“Each of you is perfect the way you are... and you can use a little improvement.”- Shunryu Suzuki

The Vajra Yoga Teacher training is an intensive studies program & includes study and contemplation of traditional texts and practices from Indian and Tibetan traditions, including but not limited to The Yoga Sutras of Patañjali and selected Pāli Suttas, such as the Samaññaphala, the Mahāsatipatthana, and the Aggañña Suttas, The Yoga Vasishta and the Vimalakirti and Flower Ornament Sutras, the Bhagavad Gita and the Lalitavistara Sutra, Shankarāchārya’s Yogatārāvalī and Shantideva’s Bodhisattvas Career, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Mañjushrī-nāma-saṁgītī, the Tibetan Book of the Dead, and various works by Jey Tsong Khapa and the Dalai Lama on deity yoga and on the inner science of the Esoteric Community and the Kalachakra. To learn more about this on-going offering, please visit: www.menla.org.

Vajra Yoga: Foundations in Mind and Body - Ep. 242 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via www.himalayanart.org.

Opening with stories from the "Peacemaking: The Power of Nonviolence" Conference held in San Francisco, California, in 1997 Sharon details how her time with grassroots activists, front-line health care providers, students and labor organizers practicing meditation have inspired, informed and invigorated her.

Podcast includes discussions of: Bell Hook's perspective on social action and the value of creativity and art in creating change, How mindfulness practice can lead one to the tools and the and the Buddhist Inner Sciences of mind transformation, and how individuals living the reality of the teachings of compassion and equanimity can be found all around us.

Tibet House US Menla Conversations: Sharon Salzberg - Ep. 243 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded during the live online event "Real Change: Covid, Climate Reality, and the New Normal", September, 7th, 2020.

To learn more about the work and teachings of Sharon Salzberg, please visit her website: www.sharonsalzberg.com.

This podcast is apart of the Tibet House US Conversations series of dialogues between Bob Thurman & the leading hearts, minds & personalities bringing the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Tibet into the modern mindful and compassionate revolution. The Tibet House US Menla Online (THUS MO) Conversations are produced through the generous support of it’s membership community and are a part of the digital member archive made available as a part of becoming a monthly supporter.

Tibet House US Menla Conversations: Sharon Salzberg - Ep. 243 Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash

Settling down after their annual Buddhism and Psychotherapy gathering, Bob Thurman and Mark Epstein reflect upon their twenty plus years teaching together, the on-going dialog between mental health care-givers and Buddhist Psychonauts, highlighting the teachers and teachings which impacted their work, writing and personal journeys.

Candidly sharing details about his next book, Mark describes his academic career, the untold stories behind his groundbreaking writings, and shows how his lifelong combination of concentrated meditation practice with clinical psychological practice and study have earned him his eminent place on the front lines of the mindfulness revolution.

This episode includes: an exploration of the influence of the historical Buddha, Freud, Ginsberg, John Cage, D.W. Winnicott, D.T. Suzuki, Tsongkhapa, 14th Dalai Lama, Yeshi Dhonden, Gelek Rimpoche, wives and close family have had upon Professor Thurman and Dr. Epstein, an introduction to Abhidharma, and the relationship between Buddhist Inner Sciences, Vajrayana, yoga and modern psycho-therapeutic practice.

Recorded August 2020 this podcast includes a possible solution to the Zen koan of "one hand clapping", also known as the un-stuck sound.

Tibet House US Menla Conversations with Mark Epstein M.D. - Ep. 241 of the Bob Thurman Podcast photo by David Gabriel Fischer via Zen Diary.

Recounting childhood stories from the first Earth Day, film maker and life long environmentalist Lavinia Currier shares insights from her experience as an mother, organic farmer, creative producer and protector of pristine beaches in Hawaii and of the three great forests of the world.

Episode includes: A short history of environmental activism in America, an introduction to simple, cruelty free methods of pest control, an examination of the relationship between food deserts, economic inequality and the rise of community gardens, gardening, farm markets, and CSAs (crop share associations).

Episode concludes with a Buddhist perspective on facing depression online by Professor Thurman highlighting the potential silver lining of the Covid-19 pandemic and economic pause occurring during quarantine.

Tibet House US Conversations : Lavinia Currier – Ep. 240 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via Pu’u O Hoku Ranch and was recorded via Zoom April 2020.

This podcast is apart of the Tibet House US Conversations series of dialogues between Bob Thurman & the leading hearts, minds & personalities bringing the ancient wisdom of Buddhism and Tibet into the modern mindful and compassionate revolution.

The Tibet House US (THUS) Conversations are produced through the generous support of its membership community and are a part of the digital member archive made available as a part of becoming a monthly supporter.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings and public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

For more Dharma teachings and application of Buddha Dharma principles to current events, check out podcasts on www.bobthurman.com.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a humorous introduction to the non-violent teachings of Gandhi and the Buddhist perspective on theism, Professor Thurman gives an explanation of his concept of cool heroes, Inner Cool Revolutions, giving examples of cool heroism from recent history and modern politics.

Podcast includes a discussion of the value and place of anger in creating change, an overview of the Buddhist concept of selflessness and a guided meditation on the equal exchange of self and other.

Cool Heroism & The Great Re-Thinking – Ep. 238 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Podcast Image via www.himalayanart.org.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Cool Heroism & The Great Re-Thinking – Ep. 238 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is an excerpt from The Great Re-thinking Prophets Conference talk “Cool Heroism : Response to Our Crisis of Violence” by Robert A.F. Thurman, recorded in Oxford, England

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a short history of Buddhist medicine and Sowa Rigpa (Tibetan Science of Healing, Professor Thurman gives a teaching on the Buddhist perspective on leadership for individuals and communities facing conflict and hoping to create sustainable change.

Podcast includes discussions of: the value of creative and humorous rudeness, the role of women’s anger in creating change and an overview of the Buddhist concept of selflessness.

Buddhist Leadership & The Medicine Buddha – Ep. 237 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Podcast Image via www.himalayanart.org.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhist Leadership & The Medicine Buddha – Ep. 237 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is an excerpt from University of Richmond’s Jepson Leadership Forum talk “Conflict Between and Within: A Buddhist Perspective” in 2014.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Using the New York Times opinion piece by Thomas L. Friedman “Dems, You Can Defeat Trump in a Landslide” as a starting point, Professor Thurman opens this week’s episode with an overview of his “Dream Team Cabinet” Call to action and the responsibility laid out in the Buddha’s philosophy of wisdom, compassion and skillful means.

Podcast includes: an exploration of the impact of translated language upon modern understanding of Buddhism, a discussion of Buddhist ethics and of the “Eight Fold Path”.

Team of Rivals : Buddhism & Vajra Politics – Ep. 236 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image by Tenzing Rigdol.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Team of Rivals : Buddhism & Vajra Politics – Ep. 236 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded at the home of Robert & Nena Thurman in Upstate New York, March 2020.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Bright Futures : Buddhism & Cultural Creatives – Ep. 235 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image by Tenzing Rigdol.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Bright Futures : Buddhism & Cultural Creatives – Ep. 235 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded at the home of Robert and Nena Thurman in Upstate, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a short discussion of New Year’s celebrations in Tibet, Robert A.F. Thurman elaborates the benefits of studying the teachings and commentaries of Lama Tsongkhapa for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of yoga, meditation and the Buddhist Inner Sciences.

Podcast includes: an in-depth exploration of the impact of male dominated culture on the transmission of advanced Buddhist practices for women, personal stories about translating commentaries on “secret” advanced Tantric texts and an introduction to the importance of the queens, consorts and female poets of South India.

This episode concludes with an invitation to join Professor Thurman during upcoming teachings at Tibet House US, Menla Retreat and online with Wisdom Publications.

About Lama Tsongkhapa and “International Year of Tsongkhapa”

​Je Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357-1419) was one of the greatest scholar-practitioners in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of the Gelug tradition.

On December 30th, 2018, the 104th Ganden Tripa Lobsang Tenzin, the supreme head of the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism proclaimed that 2019 will be “International Year of Tsongkhapa.”

“I call upon all Gelukpas and well-wishers to render their support to spreading awareness of the eloquent teachings and writings of the great Master Tsongkhapa throughout the world. I encourage Geluk monasteries, centers, organizers, individuals and admirers of Master Tsongkhapa worldwide to initiate special activities throughout the year of 2019 to commemorate (the) 600th anniversary of the great master and to inspire beings to follow in his footsteps.”

Ganden Tri Rinpoche

Buddha’s Noble Daughters : Buddhist Tantra for All – Ep. 233 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via www.tenzinpalmo.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Using the second chapter of the “The Noble Mahāyāna Sūtra : The Teaching of Vimalakīrti” Robert Thurman introduces the idea of a Buddhafield or Buddha-verse exploring the Buddha’s revolutionary teaching that anyone can transform their mind, body and environment through wisdom and compassion.

Podcast includes: an introduction to non-dualism and it’s relationship to karma and reincarnation, an elaboration of the Buddhist Inner Sciences using the seven stages of dissolution and a light hearted discussion on the value of imagination using the popular science fiction films “The Matrix”, “Men in Black” and the classic BBC television series “Dr. Who.”

Opening the second half of this week’s episode with a recitation of the Medicine Buddha mantra Robert Thurman gives a teaching on the history of Buddhist Medicine and how it relates to the on-going mission of Tibet House US at Menla, the Dalai Lama’s retreat center in the Catskill Mountains.

Hiking with the Medicine Buddha – Ep. 232 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image of the Medicine Buddha Mandala via www. himalayaart.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Hiking with the Medicine Buddha – Ep. 232 the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from the 2012 “Hiking in the Catskills” gathering at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an introduction to Samuel P. Huntington’s “The Clash of Civilizations and the Remaking of World Order” Professor Thurman traces the origins of Neo-conservatism, religious fundamentalism and industrialized military economies to the fundamental misunderstanding of the of reality and the interdependent nature of humanity and civilizations.

Podcast includes: a recommendation of “The Unconquerable World: Power, Nonviolence, and The Will of the People” by Jonathan Schell, a Buddhist perspective on the history of the Cold War between Russia and the United States, a discussion of the dangers of militarized police forces, preemptive war and a humorous exploration of the concept of mutually assured destruction and of industrialized war economies.

Second half of this week’s episode includes a discussion of the value of life long education and how recent neuroplasticity studies confirm and compliment the teachings of the Buddha’s inner and outer sciences.

Episode concludes with a reading of the poetry of Redwing Keyssar by Gary Gach.

Clash of Civilizations : Buddhism & Modern Culture – Ep. 231 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image by Tenzing Rigdol.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Clash of Civilizations : Buddhism & Modern Culture – Ep. 231 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from a talk to professional students, recorded in Russia in 2012.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a beginners’ introduction to the nature of the Buddha’s discovery, Bob Thurman analyzes modern Bhutanese culture through the lens of the Eight Fold Path suggesting possible next steps needed to fully embody the blissful, interdependent reality as understood by Buddhism and Buddhist philosophy.

Gross National Happiness : The Four Noble Truths – Ep. 229 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image by Cathal McNaughton via The Atlantic.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Gross National Happiness : The Four Noble Truths – Ep. 229 the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from “Refining Happiness (Economic Vs Happiness) : A false dichotomy” a talk given for Jangchub Shing in 2014.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an in-depth exploration of the etymology of the Sanskrit term sunyata, Robert A.F. Thurman gives a teaching on the relationality of emptiness and it’s connections to the agricultural language and culture of the Buddha’s time.

Podcast includes discussions of : the symbolism and use of sand mandalas, the history of the Kalachakra “Wheel of Time” Tantra, the Buddhist perspective on bliss, space, time and the role of evolutionary inner yogas in reducing suffering for self and others.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Muriel Rukeyser by Gary Gach.

Emptiness & Mandalas : Questioning Buddhism – Ep. 227 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Manuel Bauer via www.dalailama.com

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Emptiness & Mandalas : Questioning Buddhism – Ep. 227 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded at the annual New Year’s Retreat at Menla in Phoenicia, New York in 2015.

This podcast is apart of the on going series “Questioning Buddhism” in which Robert A.F. Thurman answers questions from those looking to learn more about the Buddha, his teachings and the history of those people, countries and cultures influenced by his ideas.

To submit your questions to be answered in future podcasts please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a personal invitation to the Annual Carnegie Hall Benefit Concert Robert A.F. Thurman gives a detailed history of the event organized by Philip Glass and explains it’s connections to Tibetan New Year and the precious culture of Tibet.

Podcast includes a discussion of the benefits of becoming a Tibet House US Member, a short introduction to Tibetan Culture for beginners and an in-depth exploration of the landmark graphic novel “Man of Peace : The Illustrated Life Story of the Dalai Lama of Tibet” by Robert A.F. Thurman.

Preserving Culture with Tibet House US Podcast Bonus of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo via www.dalailama.com.

Tibet House US is dedicated to preserving Tibet’s unique culture at a time when it is confronted with extinction on its own soil. By presenting Tibetan civilization and its profound wisdom, beauty, and special art of freedom to the people of the world, we hope to inspire others to join the effort to protect and save it.

Tibet House US is part of a worldwide network of Tibetan institutions committed to ensuring that the light of the Tibetan spirit never disappears from the face of this earth.

Tibet House US was founded at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who at the inauguration in 1987 stated his wish for a long-term cultural institution to ensure the survival of Tibetan civilization and culture, whatever the political destiny of the six million people of Tibet itself.

“I feel that Tibetan culture with its unique heritage – born of the efforts of many human beings of good spirit, of its contacts with Mongolian, Chinese, Indian, Nepalese and Persian culture, and of its natural environment – has developed a kind of energy which is very helpful for cultivating peace of mind and a joyful life. I feel that there is a potential for Tibet to help humanity, and particularly our Eastern neighbor, where millions of young Chinese have lost their spiritual values. In this way, I feel very strongly that Tibetan culture will have a role to play in the future of humanity.”

– His Holiness the Dalai Lama

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an exploration of the Buddhist perspective on the role and personal joy of teaching Professor Thurman gives a historical overview of the development of Buddhism and it’s place within modern democracy movements.

This episode includes : discussions of the traditional tools of Buddhist meditation, the role of selflessness in spirituality and the centrality of individual development, freedom and liberty in the pursuit of happiness.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Billy Collins by Gary Gach.

Buddhism in the West : The Pursuit of Happiness – Ep. 225 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Luke Stackpoole via Unsplash

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhism in the West : The Pursuit of Happiness – Ep. 225 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from “Buddhism, Religion or Evolutionary Sport” a talk given at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an exploration of the modern definition of religion, Professor Thurman gives a teaching on the nature of the Buddha’s revolutionary movement and the actions of its mendicant seekers and inner-scientific explorers across history.

This episode includes : a discussion of the place and value of hagiographies, short histories of Buddhism in India, Tibet and Central Asia, an introduction to the Siddha Adept “Psychonauts” of the Nalanda tradition and an extended (adult) re-telling of the story of Naropa, his consort and the royal deer herd of the king of Varanasi.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Juan Felipe Herrera by Gary Gach.

Buddhism As Evolutionary Sport – Ep. 224 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via Wellcome Collection.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhism As Evolutionary Sport – Ep. 224 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from the talk “Buddhism, Religion or Evolutionary Sport” given at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a discussion of the work of Jane Mayer, Robert A.F. Thurman details his vision for a Democratic Party “Dream Team” in 2020 and for a “Bright Money” campaign based on the wisdom of interdependence, the practice of compassionate generosity and environmental protection as a way to address future generations of climate refugees.

Podcast includes an introduction to the economics behind “big money” (Oil, Gun, Sugar, ect.) propaganda, an exploration of the Anarchist, Conservative, Liberal and Libertarian philosophies in modern politics and inspiring stories about the work of Greta Thunberg and Tibet’s Fourteenth Dalai Lama.

This episode is continues Robert A.F. Thurman “Truth in Action” call to action begun November 21st, 2019 as apart of the international efforts begun by Al Gore and his “Climate Reality” Leadership training Corps and the Climate Reality Project.

Bright Money for the Climate : Truth in Action – Ep. 223 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by rupixen.com on Unsplash.

Truth in Action is a global conversation on the climate crisis and how we solve it, led by Climate Reality Leaders trained by former Vice President Al Gore.

Truth in Action began November 20 at 6PM EDT in all 50 US states and many countries around the world. For a full 24 hours, Leaders gave giving free presentations on our changing climate and the solutions in our hands.

To learn more about the on-going “Truth in Action” work near you please the Climate Reality website: www.climaterealityproject.org.

This week’s “Climate Reality” episode was brought to you in part through the generous direct support of the listeners of the Bob Thurman Podcast.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Podcast includes an introduction to the international efforts begun by Al Gore and his “Climate Reality” Leadership training Corps, an in-depth exploration from a Buddhist perspective of the climate crisis and a short teaching on the role of oracles in Buddhism and in Western history.

This episode is a call to action to join Robert A.F. Thurman during the upcoming “Truth in Action” conversation happening this November 21st.

Listening to Greta Thunberg : Truth in Action – Episode 222 Greta Thunberg Photo by Andy Bosselman.

Truth in Action is a daylong global conversation on the climate crisis and how we solve it, led by Climate Reality Leaders trained by former Vice President Al Gore.

Truth in Action will take place from November 20 at 6PM EDT – November 21 at 6 PM Eastern Time, in all 50 US states and many countries around the world. For a full 24 hours, Leaders will be giving free presentations on our changing climate and the solutions in our hands – and inviting audiences to join the conversation.

To find a free “Truth in Action” presentation near you or to request a free Truth in Action presentation please the Climate Reality website: www.climaterealityproject.org.

This week’s “Climate Reality” episode was brought to you in part through the generous direct support of the listeners of the Bob Thurman Podcast.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a call to action to all those looking to create positive change in their personal lives and for the climate through the study of Buddhism and the practice of yoga poses, Professor Thurman recounts the Buddha’s assertion that anyone from any background or level of ability can transform themselves through the same methods he used to reach his full enlightenment.

Podcast includes: Recommendations of the work of Greta Turnberg’s Fridays for Future, President in Exile Al Gore’s Climate Reality Leadership Training Corp, Buddhist perspectives on oracles and autism, an overview of non-dualism and a discussion of the role of bliss in the yogic and Buddhist Inner Sciences.

This episode is a part of the Bob Thurman Podcast “Buddha and The Yogis” Series bringing together new and archive teachings by Robert A.F. Thurman and friends exploring the intersection of Buddhism and Yoga drawn from annual all levels gatherings at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Upstate New York, Pu’u O Hoku Ranch on Molokai Hawaii and around the globe.

Vajra Yoga and Vajra Politics : Podcast Bonus Photo via The Yoga Space

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

For more Dharma teachings and application of Buddha Dharma principles to current events, check out podcasts on www.bobthurman.com.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Archive session includes a group recitation of the “Heart Sutra”, a discussion of non-duality as it relates to bliss, an extended dialog on the connections between Hindu and Buddhist self transformation technologies and several chant and response sessions led by Nina Rao and Krishna Das.

This podcast includes stories from Robert A.F. Thurman and Krishna Das’ time in India and reading of Shabkar Tsogdruk Rangdrol’s poetry.

“In these three sessions, we will chant together, mantra together, teach and discuss wisdom and love and compassion in the tradition of Krishna Das’ Guru, Neem Karoli Baba, and H.H. the Dalai Lama, and have a great time, invoking Noble Tara, Shri Devi, Krishna/Radha and Manjushri/Sarasvati, covering the Guru-disciple relationship and its permutations, all kinds of mental and physical yogas, mind-concentration and heart transformation, bhakti and Tantra, etc., and basically enjoy the beautiful Dharmas of India and Tibet.”

This talk was recorded during the Force For Good Class “Hindu Buddhist Paths of Devotion: Cherishing Divine Wisdom and Compassion Through Chanting and Mantra” at Tibet House US in New York City in 2019 with Krishna Das & Robert A.F. Thurman and was excerpted as “My Early Years : Buddhist Soul with Krishna Das – Episode 216” of the Bob Thurman Podcast.

To learn more about the work + music of Krishna Das please visit: www.krishnadas.com.

To watch the full recordings from this + other past events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. Learn about joining the Tibet House US Membership Community with a monthly tax-deductible donation by visiting: www.tibethouse.us.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Introducing the retreat study practices of Tsong Khapa Robert A.F. Thurman uses The Garland of Buddhas Sutra (brilliantly translated from the Chinese by Tom Cleary as The Flower Ornament Sutra) to give a short history of the schools and groups transmitting the Buddha’s teachings on wisdom and compassion.

Podcast includes : an introduction to the Kalachakra Tantra‘s perspective on time, a re-telling of the Buddha’s encounter with a Jain seeker directly after his own enlightenment, but before he gave the “Four Noble Truths”, a discussion of the student teacher relationship in Buddhism focusing on the tradition of Kalyāṇamitra (spiritual friend) as taught by Shāntideva, Atisha and passed down by the Panchen and Dalai Lamas of Tibet.

Second half of the podcast opens with an in-depth explanation of Manjushri, Avalokiteshvara and Vajrapani and an introduction to the omnipresent and omni-competent nature of the Buddhas and Bodhisatvas who assist all beings.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Juan Felipe Herrera by Gary Gach.

Buddha’s Joy : Exploring Buddhist Tantra – Ep. 220 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Wheel of Life Image by Tenzing Rigdol.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddha’s Joy : Exploring Buddhist Tantra – Ep. 220 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from a series of talks given to the public assembled from Europe and the Russias, during the afternoon after the inspiration of H. H. the Dalai Lama’s morning teachings, recorded in Riga, Latvia, 2018.

Listen to more archive recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Podcast includes: an exploration of the concept of “noble”, a discussion of the the Buddha’s insight into the fundamental misknowledge at the heart of each of the Four Noble Truths highlighting the manner in which the Buddha’s methodology was revolutionary for the individuals and the the societies it spread to, as it is still today.

Second half of the episode continues Professor Thurman’s historical exploration of Buddhism and how it’s counter-cultural educational nature has been misunderstood and limited by modern Western comparative religious perspectives.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Juan Felipe Herrera by Gary Gach.

Four Noble Truths : Buddhism as Therapy – Ep. 218 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image via Wellcome Collection.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhism as Therapy : Four Noble Truths – Ep. 218 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from “Buddhism: Methods for Pursuit of Happiness” a talk given at the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Podcast includes: an introduction to the Buddhist history of India and Tibet, an overview of the experience of enlightenment as recounted by Shakyamuni Buddha and a concise elaboration of the “Lam Rim” or “Stages of the Path” for those of any tradition.

Tibetan Path of Enlightenment : Bob Thurman Podcast Bonus photo by Wonderlane.

This recording from the ‘Pathways to the Spirit’ Series Talk given to Trinity College in 1998 and was originally excerpted as the episodes “Buddhism 101: Defining Enlightenment – Ep 101” and “Buddhism 101: Preciousness of Human Life – Ep 103“.

This podcast is apart of the ‘Buddhism 101’ Series using classic teachings from Robert Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Podcast includes a discussion of the value and place of cognitive dissonance within meditation, a short history of the oral, written and esoteric traditions of Buddhism and an exploration of the the wisdom and compassion teachings found throughout Buddhist sutra and tantra.

Episode concludes with a reading of the work of Hilda “H.D.” Doolittle by Gary Gach.

Buddha’s Speech : Exploring Buddhist Sutras – Ep. 217 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Image by Tenzing Rigdol.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddha’s Speech : Exploring Buddhist Sutras – Ep. 217 of the Bob Thurman Podcast is excerpted from a series of talks given during the Dalai Lama’s teachings in Russia, recorded in Riga, Latvia, 2018.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The songs “Trance Tibet” & ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Elaborating upon his vision for a Democratic Party “Dream Team” in 2020 and for a “Bright Money” campaign based on the wisdom of interdependence, the practice of compassionate generosity and environmental protection Robert A.F. Thurman calls on all sensitive beings to share his short video.

Podcast concludes with an audio version of Professor Thurman’s Emergency Dream Team Plan.

“Department of Peace : Dream Team 2020 – Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

“Department of Peace : Dream Team 2020 – Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Includes an exploration of Buddhist Sand or powder mandalas and the chakra system used in the visualizations used in creation stage tantra meditations and self transformation practices by Robert A.F. Thurman.

Podcast includes a discussion of the role of gods in visualization, the need to study and develop critical wisdom and selfless compassion before engaging in advanced self-transformation and the historical place of initiation in Indian and Vedic communities.

Force For Good : Creation Stage Tantra Podcast Bonus Image via Lotus Within.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

“Force For Good : Creation Stage Tantra Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the 2017 Force for Good Class Series.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Using the “Esoteric Community” (Guhyasamāja) by Tsongkhapa, Professor Thurman discusses how with proper study and meditation anyone can understand the full meaning of the Buddha’s esoteric teachings.

Podcast includes: an overview of the Buddhist Inner Sciences, an explanation of the different lineages, orders and sects of Tibetan Buddhism, a short discussion of the distinctions between Mother, Father and Non-Dual Tantra, definitions of Professor Thurman’s “Tantric Abidharma”, Mind Objective, Speech Isolation, Clear Light and the Central Channel system used in Buddhist Medicine and Inner Sciences.

Buddhist Sciences Vajrayana Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives Image of Medicine Buddha and Tsongkhapa via www.welcomecollection.org

“Buddhist Sciences Vajrayana Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives″ of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the 2016 Force for Good Class “Vajrayana II”.

This archive was originally excerpted as the episodes: “Mother and Father Tantras” and “Buddhist Opening Verses” and the full video version can be viewed on the Tibet House US Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa YouTube Channel.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘. To learn more about this on-going series please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a discussion of yoga‘s connection to Buddhism and it’s possible Buddhist origins, Robert Thurman gives an inspiring re-telling of the Buddha’s enlightenment from a yogic and meditation perspective.

Podcast includes a discussion of emptiness, the symbolism of trees in Buddhist iconography, the historical role and impact of vegetarianism within the mendicant community, the misrepresentation of “crazy wisdom” by modern teachers and the centrality of critical wisdom and selfless compassion in a proper understanding of the blissful interdependent nature of reality.

Second half of this week’s teaching includes an introduction to Chöd (or severance) meditation practiced in cemeteries or charnel grounds as passed down by the eleventh-century yogini Machig Labdrön by Robert A.F. Thurman.

This week’s poetry segment Gary Gach reads Robinson Jeffers’ poem “Vulture”.

This week’s episode includes a personal invitation to the Tibet House US Annual Shamans and Siddhas Retreat with Isa Gucciardi, Ph.D. held at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhism, Shamanism & the Miraculous – Ep. 215 Image of Naropa via www.himalayanart.org

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Joined by Dr. Tom Yarnall in a discussion of “Guhyasamāja Tantra King of Tantras – The Glorious Esoteric Community” by Tsongkhapa Professor Thurman gives an introduction to Buddhist tantra and the practice of deity yoga.

Podcast includes a discussion of the role of gods in visualization, the need to study and develop critical wisdom and selfless compassion before engaging in advanced self-transformation and the historical place of initiation in Indian and Vedic communities.

Second half of this week’s teaching includes an exploration of Buddhist Sand or powder mandalas by Robert Thurman.

This week’s poetry segment Gary Gach reads Lew Welch’s poem “Lichen”.

Deity Yoga : Buddhism and Theism – Episode 214 Image via www.namgyalmonastery.org

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

“Deity Yoga : Buddhism and Theism – Episode 214″ of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the 2017 Force for Good Class Series.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Using D.W. Winnocott‘s concept of “good enough mother” Professor Thurman gives a teaching on the radical nature of the Buddha’s teachings and how their insights can provide those of any tradition valuable tools to transform their lives, relationships and the world around them.

This podcast includes: a short biography of the 18th Century teacher to the Qianlong Emperor of China, an introduction to Buddhist emptiness, a discussion of “Big Brothers” in Asian cultures, an overview of the Buddha’s discovery of relativity and how the blissful nature of that discovery informs the poetry of enlightened masters of India and Tibet

Song of Enlightenment : Jankya Rolway Dorje – Ep. 213 Image via www.wikipedia.org.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

This podcast is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

Song of Enlightenment : Jankya Rolway Dorje – Ep. 213 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded August 2019.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Robert A.F. Thurman opens this week’s episode with an introduction to Buddhist tantra, tantric Abhidharma and the philosophy common to Tsongkhapa, Nagarjuna, the practice lineages of Vajrayana, Shaivite and Hatha Yoga.

Second half of this week’s episode is a special invitation to all Hatha yoga and Vajrayana Buddhist students, mediators and inner scientists to develop and participate in a teacher training with Robert Thurman at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Patti Smith’s poem “Oracle” by Gary Gach.

Hatha & Vajrayana Yoga : Developing Traditions Photo by Ryan McGuire via www.mcguiremade.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Albert Saijo’s poem “Bodhisattva Vows” by Gary Gach.

Birth, Rebirth and Reincarnation Wishes Episode 211 of the Bob Thurman Podcast image of Grahamatrika, Mahavidya via Himalayan Art Resources.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York and Wisdom Publications.

Opening with a discussion of his forthcoming book “Buddhas Have More Fun!” Robert Thurman explains how the Buddha’s fourth Noble Truth known as the Eight-Fold Path should understood as a path with bliss not suffering at it’s heart.

Using the fable of the Father and the Burning House as recounted to Shariputra by the Buddha in the Lotus Sutra, Professor Thurman explores the different types of motivations for spiritual practice and personal development and how they relate to one’s every day encounters with challenging relationships, work places and political situations.

Podcast includes: a recommendation of Gary Goldschneider’s “The Secret Language of Birthdays”, an introduction to the Greater and Lesser Vehicles of Buddhism, a social perspective on the nature of suffering and a discussion of the Four “Nobler” Truths as found in the Buddhist Inner Sciences and throughout all of the Buddha’s teachings.

Second half of this week’s episode is an in-depth examination of the Three Branches of the Eight-Fold Path with a focus on the nature of positive and negative evolutionary actions centered in the interconnected nature of humans and of reality and the “Grand” nature of Mahayana Buddhism.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry and writings of Joy Harjo by Gary Gach.

Right Livelihood : Buddha in the Workplace – Ep. 210 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo Created with love by Ryan McGuire via www.gratisography.com.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Right Livelihood : Buddha in the Workplace – Ep. 210″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast” is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert AF Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

Opening this week’s episode acknowledging the acts of bravery and solidarity found throughout the daily lives of the Tibetan exile community in the United States and Canada, Professor Thurman gives a comprehensive introduction to Buddhism, Buddha and their connections to modern quantum physics, interdependence and colonialism.

Podcast includes a discussion of how Buddhism additionally to being a Religion is also an educational system with value to those of all backgrounds, faiths and nationalities in these troubled changing times.

Second half of the episode includes an exploration of the concepts of virtue, skill, mindfulness and how the Buddhist education system can increase the happiness, well-being and health of all those who encounter it.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry and writings of Joy Harjo by Gary Gach.

Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Why Buddhism Matters : Past, Present and Future – Ep. 209″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & friends please visit: www.menla.us.

Continuing his call to action for a Democratic Party “Dream Team” in 2020 and for a “Bright Money” campaign based on the wisdom of interdependence, the practice of compassionate generosity and environmental protection Professor Thurman gives a teaching on the history of the Buddha’s own political nature.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Buddhism is Political – Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & friends please visit: www.menla.us.

Continuing his call to action for a Democratic Party “Dream Team” in 2020 and discussion on the connections between Buddhism, Democracy and the environment, Robert A.F. Thurman in this episode gives a teaching on the history of Buddhist activism, corporate climate change awareness and the role of enlightened leadership based on the wisdom of interdependence and the practice of compassionate generosity.

Podcast bonus includes an extended discussion of the: The Koch Brothers, pointing out how they are Libertarians who have destroyed the Republican party—i,e, not real, good Abe Lincoln Republicans, their use of “Dark Money” in American politics, and a call to action for the creation of a “Bright Money” campaign to sweep away the propaganda-created doubt in the people, and encourage environmental responsibility, to contest the long term “Dark Money” campaign’s subversion of our democracy, by now well documented by Jane Mayer and others.

“Landscape of Change” Image by Jill Pelto via PBS.org.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Climate Change : Mother Earth in Crisis – Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & friends please visit: www.menla.us.

American Independence Day : Dream Team 2020 – Podcast Bonus of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Ben Rosett on Unsplash.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“American Independence Day : Dream Team 2020 – Podcast Bonus″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & friends please visit: www.menla.us.

Defining love in Sanskrit, Pali and Tibetan, Robert A.F. Thurman leads an in-depth exploration of it’s central role in the Buddha’s teachings, it’s relationship to compassion, empathy, philosophy and the practices of transformation found in Buddhism, Christianity and Islam.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Walt Whitman’s poem “To a Stranger” by Gary Gach.

Buddha’s Advice on Love and Marriage – Ep. 208 of the Bob Thurman Podcast hoto by Ben Rosett on Unsplash

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Buddha’s Advice on Love and Marriage – Ep. 208″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert A.F. Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & friends please visit: www.menla.us.

This extended archive recording opens with a discussion on the Buddhist definition of the mind, Professor Thurman details the philosophical history of the Buddha’s teachings, it’s meditations and yoga practices, detailing how Buddhism’s central tenets of causality, emptiness and compassion relate to modern Quantum and Particle Physics.

Includes an introduction to the Buddhist Inner Sciences, the “network of Dakinis” as taught in Buddhism’s esoteric art and Vajrayana practices and guided selflessness and body scan meditations.

“Buddha & The Yogis : 2017 – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archive” was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an introduction to the Buddhist concept of pure negation when creating philosophical meaning, Robert A.F. Thurman highlights the pitfalls of absolutism, nihilism and mindfulness mediation before exploring Mihály Csíkszentmihályi’s theory of “flow states” used in positive psychology and as popularized in fitness and creative communities with Mark Epstein M.D..

Podcast includes: a discussion of the relationship of the Buddha’s discovery of the blissful nature of reality to non-dual experiences of “being in the flow”, how to avoid post-flow state interpretation of inexpressible states of consciousness and place of transitional objects in meditation and in early childhood development as posited by D.W. Winnicott.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Wallace Steven’s poem “13 Ways of looking at a Blackbird” by Gary Gach.

Flow States : Buddhism and Psychotherapy – Ep. 207 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo Created with love by Ryan McGuire via www.gratisography.com.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Previews are available on the Tibet House US YouTube Channel + Full Archive Recordings from the 2016 + 2017 Annual Retreat at Menla in the THUS Member Archives.  Tibet House US Member Access starts at $2 a Month.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

“Flow States : Buddhism and Psychotherapy – Ep. 207″ of the Bob Thurman Podcast” is apart of the Buddhism 101 series using classic teachings from the archives of Robert AF Thurman to elucidate basic concepts of the tradition.

To learn more about upcoming programs in the heart of the Catskills with Bob Thurman & Mark Epstein M.D. please visit: www.menla.us.

Saka Dawa, named for the star, Vishakha, prominent during the fourth month in the Tibetan lunar calendar, is almost the same as the Theravadin observance of Vesak. It is considered the most sacred month for remembering the great achievement of Shakyamuni Buddha in the 6th BCE century (earlier in the Tibetan calendar). H. H. the Dalai Lama and all Tibetan Buddhist monks and laity celebrate this holiday.

In this Podcast Robert A.F. Thurman gives an overview of the Buddhist holiday, a detailed accounting of the details of the Buddha’s Enlightenment as revealed by Indian Buddhist Sanskrit literature and Tibet’s yogic tradition.

Podcast includes: an introduction to the four major schools of Buddhism found in China, details on the practice of vegetarianism during Buddhist Holidays, the symbolism behind the Buddha’s “Earth Witness” mudra made upon being challenged by Mara the Evil One, just before Siddhartha attained unexcelled enlightenment; and how traditional Chinese people were quite tolerant of diversity in religion and ideology, as “Confucians in office, Taoist for weddings, birth ceremonies, and in retirement, and Buddhist for funerals, meditations, and scientific philosophies.”

Includes a teaching on the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths and mentions Professor Thurman’s Four Nobler Truths, based on the White Lotus and Great Total Nirvana Sutras.

To listen to more recordings from past programs with Robert A.F. Thurman at Tibet House US in New York City + Menla in Phoenicia, New York in the Catskills please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Detailing how Buddhism’s central tenets of causality, emptiness and compassion relate to modern Quantum and Particle Physics Robert A.F. Thurman provides those engaging in physical yoga practices and meditation a roadmap for discovering the blissful nature of reality.

Podcast includes a introduction to the Buddhist Inner Sciences and the “network of Dakinis” as taught in Buddhism’s esoteric art and Vajrayana practices.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Wallace Steven’s poem “Snowman” by Gary Gach.

Yoga, Bliss & Mind : Buddhist Inner Sciences Photo by Ryan McGuire via www.mcguiremade.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

This podcast is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

Yoga, Bliss & Mind : Buddhist Inner Sciences – Ep. 205 of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded at the Annual All Levels Yoga and Buddhism Retreat “Buddha & the Yogis” with Richard Freeman, Mary Taylor and Robert A.F. Thurman July 16 – 23, 2017 at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

Podcast opens with an exploration of the history of Buddhist monastic and university traditions, a teaching on the Seven Ornaments and the six parameters of interpretation used within Tantric and Vajrayana philosophy.

Episode includes definitions of Professor Thurman’s “Tantric Abidharma”, Mind Objective, Speech Isolation, Clear Light and the Central Channel system used in Buddhist Medicine and Inner Sciences.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s writings on World War Two and the Bombing of Nagasaki by Gary Gach.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Opening  with personal reflections upon “The Year of Tsongkhapa”, Robert A.F. Thurman uses the miss-titled “Tibetan Book of The Dead” core teaching of infinite interconnected, past and future lives to frame his exploration of the life, work and teachings of Je Tsongkhapa and gives an in-depth teaching on his historical importance and impact upon Buddhism, Tibet and philosophy.

Podcast includes a reading of the first Panchen Lama Khedrup Gelek Pelzang’s account of Tsongkhapa’s attainment of the magic body and manifestation of Manjushri during his enlightenment, a discussion of the use of spiritual consorts, Karmamudra, the history of the different schools, sects and “orders” within Pre-Invasion Tibet and a recommendation of the forthcoming biography of Tsongkhapa by Thupten Jinpa by Wisdom Publications.

About Lama Tsongkhapa and “International Year of Tsongkhapa”

​Je Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357-1419) was one of the greatest scholar-practitioners in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of the Gelug tradition. While still a young man, Tsongkhapa distinguished himself through intense study, a sharp intellect and meditative accomplishment. In the last three decades of his life, Tsongkhapa dedicated himself to practice, teaching, writing and establishing monasteries. Respected by all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Lama Tsongkhapa’s deeds contributed tremendously to the revitalization of Buddhism in Tibet.

On December 30th, 2018, the 104th Ganden Tripa Lobsang Tenzin, the supreme head of the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism proclaimed that 2019 will be “International Year of Tsongkhapa.”

“I call upon all Gelukpas and well-wishers to render their support to spreading awareness of the eloquent teachings and writings of the great Master Tsongkhapa throughout the world. I encourage Geluk monasteries, centers, organizers, individuals and admirers of Master Tsongkhapa worldwide to initiate special activities throughout the year of 2019 to commemorate (the) 600th anniversary of the great master and to inspire beings to follow in his footsteps.”

Ganden Tri Rinpoche

Opening with a succinct explanation of the different lineages, orders and sects of Tibetan Buddhism from a historical perspective, Robert A.F. Thurman leads a discussion of the common misconceptions of Vajrayana Buddhism since coming to the West giving rise to the appearance of sectarianism and abuses by non-traditional Guru figures.

Podcast includes: an overview of the Buddhist Inner Sciences, a short discussion of the distinctions between Mother, Father and Non-Dual Tantra and an introduction to the central channel practices including the Magic Body and Chakra symbolism.

Second half of the podcast includes an in-depth exploration of the the symbolism and use of the Bells, Dorjes and Vajra Ritual Implements in art and meditation practices.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Lawrence Ferlinghetti’s “Millennial Cities” by Gary Gach.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the monthly support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

About Lama Tsongkhapa and “International Year of Tsongkhapa”

​Je Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357-1419) was one of the greatest scholar-practitioners in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of the Gelug tradition. While still a young man, Tsongkhapa distinguished himself through intense study, a sharp intellect and meditative accomplishment. In the last three decades of his life, Tsongkhapa dedicated himself to practice, teaching, writing and establishing monasteries. Respected by all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Lama Tsongkhapa’s deeds contributed tremendously to the revitalization of Buddhism in Tibet.

On December 30th, 2018, the 104th Ganden Tripa Lobsang Tenzin, the supreme head of the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism proclaimed that 2019 will be “International Year of Tsongkhapa.”

“I call upon all Gelukpas and well-wishers to render their support to spreading awareness of the eloquent teachings and writings of the great Master Tsongkhapa throughout the world. I encourage Geluk monasteries, centers, organizers, individuals and admirers of Master Tsongkhapa worldwide to initiate special activities throughout the year of 2019 to commemorate (the) 600th anniversary of the great master and to inspire beings to follow in his footsteps.”

Ganden Tri Rinpoche

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry of Albert Saijo by Gary Gach.

Opening this week’s episode with personal reflections upon “The Year of Tsongkhapa”, Robert A.F. Thurman uses the miss-titled “Tibetan Book of The Dead” core teaching of infinite interconnected, past and future lives to frame his exploration of the life, work and teachings of Je Tsongkhapa.

This two part podcast includes a reading of the first Panchen Lama Khedrup Gelek Pelzang’s account of Tsongkhapa’s attainment of the magic body and manifestation of Manjushri during his enlightenment.

Podcast includes a discussion of the use of spiritual consorts, Karmamudra, the history of the different schools, sects and “orders” within Pre-Invasion Tibet and a recommendation of the forthcoming biography of Tsongkhapa by Thupten Jinpa by Wisdom Publications.

About Lama Tsongkhapa and “International Year of Tsongkhapa”

​Je Tsongkhapa Lobsang Drakpa (1357-1419) was one of the greatest scholar-practitioners in the history of Tibetan Buddhism and the founder of the Gelug tradition. While still a young man, Tsongkhapa distinguished himself through intense study, a sharp intellect and meditative accomplishment. In the last three decades of his life, Tsongkhapa dedicated himself to practice, teaching, writing and establishing monasteries. Respected by all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism, Lama Tsongkhapa’s deeds contributed tremendously to the revitalization of Buddhism in Tibet.

On December 30th, 2018, the 104th Ganden Tripa Lobsang Tenzin, the supreme head of the Gelug lineage of Tibetan Buddhism proclaimed that 2019 will be “International Year of Tsongkhapa.”

“I call upon all Gelukpas and well-wishers to render their support to spreading awareness of the eloquent teachings and writings of the great Master Tsongkhapa throughout the world. I encourage Geluk monasteries, centers, organizers, individuals and admirers of Master Tsongkhapa worldwide to initiate special activities throughout the year of 2019 to commemorate (the) 600th anniversary of the great master and to inspire beings to follow in his footsteps.”

Ganden Tri Rinpoche

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry of Lawrence Ferlinghetti by Gary Gach.

Introducing the Buddha as a physician of the body, mind and of wider society Robert Thurman gives a detailed history of the healing nature of the teachings and of the medicine tradition of Sowa Rigpa which they gave rise to.

Includes an exploration of the Yuthok Nyingthig, the unique cycle of Vajrayana Buddhist practice connected with Tibetan Medicine, short biographies of Yuthok the Elder and Younger, generosity as a vehicle for spiritual development, Buddhist mantras as form of psychotherapy and a guided meditation on selflessness.

Tibetan Secrets of Longevity : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives Photo of Robert A.F. Thurman and Nena Thurman at Menla by Dr. Nida Chenagtsang

Tibetan Secrets of Longevity : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives was recorded at the Third Session of the “Tibetan Secrets of Longevity Retreat with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang & Robert A.F. Thurman”  held at Menla’s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York, July 2017.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York. To learn more about this year’s program with Robert A.F. Thurman and Dr. Nida at Menla please visit: www.menla.us

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

Opening this week’s episode with a recommendation of “The Mirror of Light” by Dr. Nida Chenagtsang and introducing the Buddha as a physician of the body, mind and of wider society Robert Thurman gives a detailed history of the healing nature of the teachings and of the medicine tradition of Sowa Rigpa which they gave rise to.

Explaining the Buddha’s insight into the blissful nature of reality and it’s connection to selflessness Robert A.F. Thurman shows how the transcendent nature of enlightenment transforms the individual into a pulsar of encouraging energy to all those who encounter them.

Second half of this week’s episode includes an exploration of the Yuthok Nyingthig, the unique cycle of Vajrayana Buddhist practice connected with Tibetan Medicine, short biographies of Yuthok the Elder and Younger, generosity as a vehicle for spiritual development, Buddhist mantras as form of psychotherapy and a guided meditation on selflessness.

Podcast concludes with a reading of Allen Ginsberg’s poem The Sunflower Sutra by Gary Gach.

Tibetan Medicine : Yuthok the Elder & Sowa Rigpa – Episode 199 the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by David Brooke Martin on Unsplash.

Tibetan Medicine : Yuthok the Elder & Sowa Rigpa – Episode 199 the Bob Thurman Podcast is an excerpt from the “Tibetan Secrets of Longevity Third Session with Dr. Nida Chenagtsang & Robert A.F. Thurman” Video. Recorded at Menla’s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York, July 2017 the Annual Kalachakra Study + Practice Intensive Retreat.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York. To learn more about this year’s program with Robert A.F. Thurman and Dr. Nida at Menla please visit: www.menla.us

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

Recording opens with discussions of: mindfulness of the breath, instructions on mantra recitation, a history of Zen on Chan Buddhism and an introduction to the Bodhisattva Maitreya’s “The Sublime Continuum Super-Commentary with the Sublime Continuum Treatise Commentary” published by AIBS, Tibet House US and Columbia University Press.

Robert A.F. Thurman provides a quick fire summary of the historical Buddha’s core teaching of The Four Noble Truths, an introduction to Buddhism’s messianic figure of Maitreya, Asanga and his brother Vasubandhu, and a humorous perspective of the film “Death Becomes Her”.

Includes an extended re-telling of the story of Asanga and the Dog, an in depth discussion of the Three Jewels of Buddhism and an exploration of the Buddhist perspective on the soul, death and the existence of both heavenly and hell-like realms.

Buddha Soul – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo Young Monks studying by Tenzin Chojeor via www.dalailama.com.

This talk was recorded during the “The Buddha Soul, Nature, Essence, Element, or Womb” Force For Good Class at Tibet House US in New York City, October 2017 with Robert A.F. Thurman & is apart of the THUS Member Archive.

“When we really feel that there is some need to change, then our minds can change. Wishing and praying alone will not transform your mind, but with conviction and reason, reason based ultimately on your own experience, you can transform your mind. Time is quite an important factor here, and with time our mental attitudes can certainly change..” H.H. Dalai Lama

To watch the full recordings from this + other past events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. Learn about joining the Tibet House US Membership Community with a monthly tax-deductible donation by visiting: www.tibethouse.us.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Robert A.F. Thurman addresses questions from retreat participants about: Fire Puja Ceremonies, Dream Yoga, gender in Buddhism, the symbolism of deities in found traditional Indian and Vedic art, how best to prepare for Buddhist Vajrayana practices, Tibetan Astrology’s connections to Sowa Rigpa and Himalayan Medicine, Relativity, Clear Light and how anyone can use the Buddhist Inner Sciences no matter what one’s background or religious tradition.

Concludes with a guided “Three Principles of the Path” meditation and instructions on the dedication of positive merit generated through contemplative practices.

Kalachakra Study 2017 – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives Photo of Dalai Lama creating Kalachakra Sand Mandala with Monks by Manuel Bauer, Used with permission via www.dalailama.com.

“Kalachakra Study 2017 – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives”  is an excerpt from the “Final Questions + Answers Session of the Kalachakra Study + Practice with Robert A.F. Thurman” Video. Recorded at Menla’s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York, July 2017 the Annual Kalachakra Study + Practice Intensive Retreat.

To read more about this year’s Kalachakra Program with Robert A.F. Thurman at Menla please visit: www.menla.us.

“Kalachakra Study 2017 – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives” is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

Opening this episode with a joyous introduction to the Tibetan New Year tradition of Losar, Robert A.F. Thurman gives a teaching on the value of developing and practicing wisdom along side mindfulness practices using stories from the Buddha’s life.

Using the stories of Buddha’s interactions with the six teachers and their unrealistic world views during his teaching career and the performance of miracles before them Professor Thurman gives a practical perspective of the The Great Prayer Festival (Losar) established by Tsongkhapa in 1409.

Podcast includes discussions of: the Dalai Lama’s work in the United States through Tibet House US, the historical interconnections between the Mahayana & Hinayana Buddhist meditation, a Buddhist perspective on making positive resolutions every day of the year,a call to action to all sensitive beings for increased dialog between groups facing conflict, oppression and radical extremism and a Tibetan Buddhist astrological explanation of the year of the Earth Boar for Tibet, His Holiness and all citizens of planet earth.

Second half of this week’s episode continues Robert A.F. Thurman teaching on personal development of wisdom and compassion through meditation, mantra, yoga and an introduction to his idea of lucid waking.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poem “When Death Comes” by Mary Oliver by Gary Gach.

“Lucid Waking & Mindfulness Practices” Episode 198 the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by David Brooke Martin on Unsplash.

“Lucid Waking & Mindfulness Practices” Episode 198 the Bob Thurman Podcast is an excerpt from the “Final Questions + Answers Session of the Kalachakra Study + Practice with Robert A.F. Thurman” Video. Recorded at Menla’s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York, July 2017 the Annual Kalachakra Study + Practice Intensive Retreat.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York. To learn more about this year’s Kalachakra Program with Robert A.F. Thurman at Menla please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

“Lucid Waking & Mindfulness Practices” is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

Opening with a re-telling of the story of Pai Chang & Huang Po in which the Chan master and student discuss how to make a Buddha through inner & outer (mental & physical) efforts Professor Thurman uses this classic tale to discuss the dangers of Scientism, materialism and absolutism modern seekers face in daily culture.

Second part of this week’s episode is a guided “Three Principles of the Path” meditation and instructions on the dedication of positive merit generated through contemplative practices.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry of Mary Oliver by Gary Gach.

“How to Make a Buddha – Episode 197 of the Bob Thurman Podcast”  is an excerpt from the “Final Questions + Answers Session of the Kalachakra Study + Practice with Robert A.F. Thurman” Video. Recorded at Menla’s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York, July 2017 the Annual Kalachakra Study + Practice Intensive Retreat.

To read more about this year’s Kalachakra Program with Robert AF Thurman at Menla please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

“How to Make a Buddha” is apart of the Buddhist Inner Sciences 101 Podcast Series taken from the Bob Thurman & Tibet House US archives which are intended to provide an introduction to the yogic, meditative & theoretical practices of the tradition. These recordings are intended to be general overviews & one should be studying with a qualified teacher before attempting or engaging in the practices.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To listen to more recordings from past Robert A.F. Thurman programs please consider becoming a Tibet House US Member.

This archive recording includes: discussions of “Flower Ornament Sutra“, Kalachakra Tantra, the non-dual nature of the Shakyamuni’s time under the bodhi tree and introductions to Vairochana, Avalokiteshvara and the Eighth King of Shamabala.

“By tracing the Buddha’s steps, partaking in daily meditations in the very places where Buddha’s own life’s journey unfolded, and enjoying daily talks with Professor Thurman. This journey, custom crafted for Tibet House US with Dr. Thurman and GeoEx, explores the birth of Buddhism by tracing a path through the sacred sites of the Buddha’s life. At each sacred site, the group will be offered teachings and stories about the life of the Buddha.

Traveling with leading Buddhist scholars Dr. Robert Thurman and Geographic Expeditions’ own inveterate leader Brent Olson, the trip offers a rare opportunity to explore a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and spiritual riches—and indeed to see places, through their importance in the life of the Buddha, that would shape the history of the region and the world.”

From Trip Description via www.geoex.com.

To learn about upcoming Tibet House US trips with Robert A.F. Thurman + GeoEx please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives Photo via GeoEx.

“Pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives” is apart of the “Buddhist Pilgrimage Series” using field recordings of Robert AF Thurman and friends from his global docent tours benefiting the work of Tibet House US.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening this week’s episode with a reading of the “Flower Ornament Sutra” Professor Thurman introduces us to “swimming” in the fantastic sutra with its descriptions of multiple planes of existence and dimensions of reality as a gateway to unpacking the practical and esoteric lessons of Buddhism.

Contextualizing the non-dual nature of the Shakyamuni’s time under the bodhi tree just after full enlightenment as holographic in nature, Thurman gives a history of the pilgrimage site and introduces the infinite buddhas visited during this experience including: Vairochana Buddha, Avalokiteshvara and their connections to the Dalai Lama of Tibet and the Eighth King of Shamabala.

Podcast includes discussions of: the Kalachakra Tantra, it’s mandala and the practices, the Twelve Deeds of a Buddha and a Buddhist perspective on mystical experiences.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry of Mary Oliver by Gary Gach. .

Pilgrimage : Swimming & Sitting Under The Bodhi Tree – Ep. 196 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Filip Wolak All Rights Reserved.

This podcast was recorded during the Tibet House US + GeoEx Trip lead by Robert AF Thurman to the 34th Kalachakra Empowerment with the Dalai Lama in Bodhgaya, Bihar, India in January, 2017.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To learn about upcoming Tibet House US trips Robert Thurman + GeoEx please visit: www.bobthurman.com.

Opening with an exploration of the experience of enlightenment Professor Thurman gives an introduction to Buddhist meditation, to the practice of meditating on Tara and female inspirational figures.

Podcast includes a short history of Buddhism, it’s relationship to yoga, a re-telling and re-contextualization of the Buddhist Jātaka tales and an in-depth exploration of the Twenty One Taras meditation practice.

Includes guided meditations and teachings on selflessness, the dedication of positive merit and Tara.

Buddha & The Yogis : Divine Feminine – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives photo with Mary Taylor, Sandi Higgins and Richard Taylor from Buddha and the Yogis Annual Retreat via www.instagram.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York and was originally excerpted as “Tara, Yoga & Female Buddhas” Episode 195 of the Bob Thurman Podcast.

Recorded at the annual Buddha and The Yogis intensive program with Robert A.F. Thurman and Friends held at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York, Summer 2016.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an exploration of the experience of enlightenment as depicted in the classic science fiction film “Star Trek The Motion Picture” Robert A.F. Thurman gives a brief introduction to the study and practice of Buddhist Vajrayana deity yoga meditation on Tara and female inspirational figures of any tradition.

Podcast includes a recommendation of the yoga teachings of Richard Freeman and Mary Taylor, a short history of Buddhism, it’s relationship to yoga, a non-dual perspective on the role of women in society and in Buddhist monastic communities and an exploration of the Twenty One Taras used by Tibetan adepts, pilgrims and everyday people for generations.

Second half of this week’s episode includes a guided meditation and a teaching on the dedication of positive merit generated during the spiritual practice and contemplation of Tara’s immeasurable, multi-colored forms.

Recorded at the annual Buddha and The Yogis intensive program with Robert A.F. Thurman and Friends held at Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York, Summer 2016.

In this week’s Bob Thurman podcast poetry segment Gary Gach reads the poetry of Emily Dickinson.

Tara, Yoga & Female Buddhas – Ep. 195 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Tara statue photo via www.luminousbuddha.com.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Robert A.F. Thurman discusses the value of end of year celebrations, compassion and the Kālachakra yoga in helping individuals of any tradition or religious background to escape the terminal lifestyle of self centered materialism.

Highlighting the common spiritual threads found in Christmas, Hanukkah, Losar & Pagan Solstice celebrations Robert Thurman discusses his upcoming program at Kripalu based upon his book “Infinite Life: Awakening to Bliss Within”, his long time New Year’s tradition of teaching with Sharon Salzberg, and the place of mindfulness, emptiness and compassion in transforming one’s life.

Recording includes an extended call to action and re-telling of Professor Thurman’s vision of creating a space for the development and support of an Kālachakra Yoga practice community in New York City.

Buddha Bliss and Kālachakra Yoga – Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Priscilla Kimie, All Rights Reserved.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To learn more about upcoming programs at Kripalu please visit: www.kripalu.org.

Highlighting the common spiritual threads found in Christmas, Hanukkah, Losar & Pagan Solstice celebrations Robert Thurman discusses the symbolic and psychological value of such community gatherings detailing the history of solar and lunar celebrations in Judaism and of Tibet’s Tsongkhapa Butter Lamp Festival.

Podcast includes a discussion of the Annual Tibet House US New Year’s Dharma and Yoga retreat with held at Menla with Sharon Salzberg, of upcoming programs at Kripalu and of Hatha Yoga‘s history, origins of it’s connections to Buddhist Vajrayana and to Unexcelled Yoga Tantras.

In the second part of this week’s episode Robert A.F. Thurman discusses his dream of creating a space at Tibet House US  with his colleague Dr. John Campbell for the development and daily practice of Buddhist Vajrayana yoga community.

In this week’s Bob Thurman podcast poetry segment Gary Gach reads the poetry of Emily Dickinson.

Infinite Lifestyle : Yoga & End of Year Celebrations – Ep. 194 of the Bob Thurman Podcast Photo by Paul Cooper, All Rights Reserved.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

To learn more about upcoming programs at Kripalu please visit: www.kripalu.org.

Opening with a group recitation of the “Heart Sutra” Robert A.F. Thurman and Sharon Salzberg share rare personal stories about their decades of studying Buddhism and meditation and a round robin of New Year’s stories of gratitude by each of the retreat teachers.

Robert A.F. Thurman gives a short history of Menla Retreat and the Pantherkill Valley in New York’s Catskill mountains before presenting the Buddhist Eight Fold Path in modern language for a general audience. Presentation includes a discussion of each of it’s eight parts and a guided meditation.

Includes a discussion of the centrality of causation to understanding the Eight Fold Path, a re-telling of the myth of the Buddhist Kingdom of Shambhala, a recommendation of the oral biography of Neem Karoli Baba “Love Everyone” and about the teachings of Shantideva passed down through the life and work of Lama Khunu Rinpoche and his Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama.

Recording concludes with a traditional guided meditation and recitation dedication practice led by Robert Thurman offering the merit of the day’s teachings to those who have helped to support Tibetan culture by visiting Menla in Upstate, New York and to the selfless work of Sharon Salzberg, Nena Thurman and the Tibet House US Membership community over the years.

This teaching includes a call to action to all sensitive beings to join the on-going efforts to present and preserve Tibetan culture by becoming apart of the Menla Tibet House US Membership community.

Dharma and Yoga : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives Photo by Raimond Klavins.

Dharma and Yoga : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives was excerpted from the Tibet House US Member Archive’s Annual New Year’s “Real Love Meditation & Yoga Retreat” with Robert A.F. Thurman & Sharon Salzberg recorded Dec 2015 at Menla in Phoenicia, New York.

To learn about this annual event, please visit: www.menla.us.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a dedication to Sharon Salzberg for her selfless history of teaching, on helping to establish the Tibet House US center Menla and how she was transmitted the “Equal Exchange of Self for Other” teachings by Lama Khunu on her first visit to India, Professor Thurman leads a discussion and guided meditation on the Buddhist Eight Fold Path for people of all traditions, backgrounds or levels of interest.

Podcast includes a discussion of emptiness, motivation, reincarnation, the centrality of causation to understanding the Eight Fold Path, a re-telling of the myth of the Buddhist Kingdom of Shambhala, highlighting it’s multi-faith, inter-sectional diversity, a recommendation of the Bill Murphy movie “What About Bob?” and an exploration of how shifting the traditional translation away from an moral framing of right/wrong to realistic/unrealistic (i.e Right Livelihood vs Realistic Livelihood) can help reveal the spiritual path as the Buddha taught to mendicants, merchants and all sensitive beings of his time.

Second half of this week’s episode is a complete introduction to the Eight Fold Path by Robert Thurman with a break down of each of it’s branches, including the mental and physical aspects in modern language.

In this week’s Bob Thurman podcast poetry segment Gary Gach reads the poetry of Emily Dickinson.

Menla and the Buddha’s Eight Fold Path – Ep. 193 was excerpted from the Tibet House US Member Archive’s Annual New Year’s “Real Love Meditation & Yoga Retreat” with Robert A.F. Thurman & Sharon Salzberg recorded Dec 2015 at Menla in Phoenicia, New York.

To learn about this annual event, please visit: www.menla.us.

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening this week’s episode with a mantra recitation, Professor Thurman gives a short teaching for Buddhists and Non-Buddhists on the Buddha’s discovery of Bliss, on the nature of nirvana, enlightenment, happiness and on the place of the Guru and disciple relationship.

Using Buddhist texts, stories and the teachings of the Middle Way Centrist (Middle Way) school of philosophy, Robert Thurman gives an in-depth history of sexuality in Buddhism within the context of Western colonialism and in light of abusive gurus, teachers and leaders.

Podcast includes an introduction to the work of Dr. Nida Chenagtsang, a recommendation of his book on sexuality in Buddhism: “Karmamudra : The Yoga of Bliss“, discussions of: Tantra, Gender Roles in esoteric visualization practices, Hatha Yoga‘s relationship to the Buddhist Inner Sciences, the experience of emptiness and how anyone can begin to transform negative relationships through the development of wisdom and practice of meditation.

Abuse in Buddhism : Gurus, Disciples & The Middle Way Photo by Arisa Chattasa on Unsplash

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Abuse in Buddhism : Gurus, Disciples & The Middle Way – Ep. 192 was recorded in Woodstock, New York, November, 2018.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a humorous presentation on non-duality using the science fiction movies featuring Godzilla, Robert A.F. Thurman explores the nature of anger, the subtle mind and selflessness.

Archive recording includes a discussion of dharmakāya and mandala visualizations using The Four Noble Truths, The Heart Sutra, the mis-titled Tibetan Book of the Dead, an exploration of anger with an explanation of “Buddha Pride” and how confidence in the primal knowledge of voidness can help anyone understand how misplaced pride leads to suffering.

This recording includes two guided meditations on selflessness and on visualization appropriate for Buddhists and Non-Buddhists alike,

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Buddhist Sciences Vajrayana : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives was recorded at the Force For Good Class “Buddhist Sciences II : Vajrayana” on November, 2016 in New York City.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening this week’s episode with humorous presentation on non-duality using the science fiction movies featuring Godzilla Robert A.F. Thurman explores the nature of anger, the subtle mind and selflessness.

Podcast includes a discussion of dharmakāya and mandala visualizations using The Four Noble Truths, The Heart Sutra and of the mis-titled Tibetan Book of the Dead as a popularization of the Buddhist science of the subtle and super subtle mind.

Second half of this podcast continues Professor Thurman’s exploration of anger with an explanation of “Buddha Pride” and how confidence in the primal knowledge of voidness can help anyone understand how misplaced pride or a pride of ordinariness leads to mis-knowing the blissful nature of reality and suffering.

Podcast concludes with a presentation of the work of Arnold J. Toynbee & Karl Jaspers on the Axial Age and a recommendation of “Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies” by Jared M. Diamond.

This week’s poetry segment Gary Gach reads the poetry of Korean poet, writer, and activist Ko Un

This week’s episode’s of the Bob Thurman Podcast was brought to you in part through the support of the Tibet House US Membership Community and Menla Retreat and Dewa Spa in Phoenicia, New York.

Godzilla Sutra : Understanding Anger & The Axial Age – Ep. 191 was recorded at the Force For Good Class on November, 2016 in New York City.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

Korean poet, writer, and activist Ko Un was born in Gunsan-si, Jeollabuk-do. He was drawn to poetry after discovering the early work of Han Ha-Un, a nomadic Korean poet with leprosy. After witnessing the devastation of the Korean War, Ko entered a monastery and became a Buddhist monk. He left the Buddhist community in 1962. In the 1970s and early 1980s, Ko was detained, tortured, and imprisoned repeatedly for his opposition to the military regime.

Ko has twice won the South Korean Literature Prize and received the Griffin Trust for Excellence in Poetry’s Lifetime Recognition Award. He was elected chairman of the Association of Writers for National Literature and was chosen president of the Compilation Committee of the Grand Inter-Korean Dictionary. He has taught at Seoul National University, Kyonggi University, Harvard University, and the University of California at Berkeley. Ko lives in South Korea.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an introduction to the Buddhist Neurosciences as practiced by the Mahāsiddhas using the Cakrasamvara Tantra to develop the art of lucid sleeping, lucid dreaming, and lucid awakening, Professor Thurman provides a road map for seekers of any tradition to positively re-imagine their ability to consciously restructure the brain, relationships and their world through an understanding of the nature of reality.

Podcast includes an overview of the Yogic chakras & channels, an explanation of the Mother and Father Tantra systems, the historic reasoning of the secrecy of esoteric teachings due to dangers of becoming conscious of the unconscious and the blissful experiences of the subtle, super subtle and clear light non-dual realities to be discovered by anyone who has developed their inner imaginative microscope through meditative stabilization and the practice of mandala meditations.

Recording includes an overview of Nine Point Breath Meditation as taught by Dr. Nida Chenagtsang, introductions to Buddhist Tantra, the Karma Sutra, the history of Theravada and the diverse meditation traditions of India, China and South East Asia, and a frank presentation of so-called “crazy wisdom” by Robert Thurman shedding much needed philosophical light upon the ethical lapses which occur due to milsleading teachers’ and misled students’ misunderstandings of the nature of ultimate and causal realities described by the Buddha and his great successors.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening this week’s teaching with an introduction of the subtle energy systems found in Vajrayana Buddhism and Hindu Shaivism Professor Thurman details the transformational power of imaginative visualization when guided by an experienced, qualified teacher.

Continuing the discussion begun in last week’s episode on Buddhist Psychonauts this episode includes an overview of Nine Point Breath Meditation as taught by Dr. Nida Chenagtsang, introductions to Buddhist Tantra, the Karma Sutra, the history of Theravada and the diverse meditation traditions of India, China and South East Asia, and a frank presentation of so-called “crazy wisdom” by Robert Thurman shedding much needed philosophical light upon the ethical lapses which occur due to milsleading teachers’ and misled students’ misunderstandings of the nature of ultimate and causal realities described by the Buddha and his great successors.

The second half of this week’s episode begins with a short explanation of the Mādhyamaka Centrist or Middle Way perspective and the experiential methods of teaching of emptiness, compassion and relativity found in the writings of Tsongkhapa, Asanga and Nagarjuna.

This week’s poetry segment Gary Gach reads the poetry of W. S. Merwin.

Pharmacopeia of Visualization : Tantra, Sex and Meditation – Ep. 190 Photo by Matt Briney on Unsplash

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

W.S. Merwin is the 17th Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry of the United States. He is the author of over fifty books of poetry, prose, and translations. He has earned every major literary prize, most recently the National Book Award for ‘Migration: New and Selected Poems’ and the 2009 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for ‘The Shadow of Sirius.’ He lives in Hawaii where he raises endangered palm trees.

“Pharmacopeia of Visualization : Tantra, Sex and Meditation – Ep. 189″ of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the 2017 Force for Good Class Series.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with an introduction to the Buddhist Neurosciences as practiced by the Mahāsiddhas using the Cakrasamvara Tantra to develop the art of lucid sleeping, lucid dreaming, and lucid awakening, Professor Thurman provides a road map for seekers of any tradition to positively re-imagine their ability to consciously restructure the brain, relationships and their world through an understanding of the nature of reality.

Podcast includes an overview of the Yogic chakras & channels, an explanation of the Mother and Father Tantra systems, the historic reasoning of the secrecy of esoteric teachings due to dangers of becoming conscious of the unconscious and the blissful experiences of the subtle, super subtle and clear light non-dual realities to be discovered by anyone who has developed their inner imaginative microscope through meditative stabilization and the practice of mandala meditations.

This week’s poetry segment Gary Gach reads “To Paint The Portrait Of A Bird” by Jacques Prévert.

Buddhist Psychonauts & Their Yogic Technology – Ep. 189 Photo by Daniil Kuželev on Unsplash

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

“Buddhist Psychonauts & Their Yogic Technology – Ep. 189″ of the Bob Thurman podcast was recorded at the 2017 Force for Good Class Series.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

This archive recording is a lively discussion of the miss titled “Tibetan Book of the Dead” and the place of gurus and fierce deities within the Buddhist perspective on the death process.

Includes a traditional guided Bardo meditation on the fierce and peaceful Bardo deities depicted in the “Tibetan Book of the Dead” led by Robert A.F. Thurman which includes: a discussion of the eight stages of dissolution, Buddhism’s perspective on heaven, hell and fantastical realms of the afterlife, Dream Yoga, Lucid Dreaming and call to action for digital animators and film makers to engage in creative projects depicting the journey of life, death and beyond found in all spiritual traditions.

“Death & Deathlessness Intro : Podcast Bonus RAFT Archives” photo by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash

Dale Borglum founded and directed the Hanuman Foundation Dying Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the first residential facility in the United States to support conscious dying. Executive Director of the Living/Dying Project in Santa Fe & in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dale is the co-author with Ram Dass, Daniel Goleman and Dwarka Bonner of Journey of Awakening: A Meditator’s Guidebook, and has taught meditation since 1974. Dale lectures and gives workshops on the topics of meditation, healing, spiritual support for those with life-threatening illness, and on caregiving as spiritual practice. He has a doctorate degree from Stanford University.

“Tibetan Book of the Dead : Fierce Deities, Friends & Gurus” was recorded at Menla‘s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York during the Oct 31st 2015 Halloween Evening Discussion of the 2015 “Death & Deathlessness: Buddhist Insights and Practices for Life, Death & the In-Between Retreat” with Dale Borglum & Robert A.F. Thurman.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening this week’s podcast with a recommendation of the classic “Zen Flesh, Zen Bones: A Collection of Zen and Pre-Zen Writings” by Paul Reps and Nyogen Senzaki Professor Thurman elaborates the value of the creative imagination within Buddhism and all spiritual traditions.

Second half of podcast includes a traditional guided Bardo meditation on the fierce and peaceful Bardo deities depicted in the “Tibetan Book of the Dead” led by Robert A.F. Thurman which includes: a discussion of the eight stages of dissolution, Buddhism’s perspective on heaven, hell and fantastical realms of the afterlife, Dream Yoga, Lucid Dreaming and call to action for digital animators and film makers to engage in creative projects depicting the journey of life, death and beyond found in all spiritual traditions.

This week’s poetry segment podcast Gary Gach reads the poetry of Muriel Rukeyser.

“Tibetan Book of the Dead : Fierce Deities, Friends & Gurus – Ep. 188 of the Bob Thurman Podcast photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash.

Dale Borglum founded and directed the Hanuman Foundation Dying Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the first residential facility in the United States to support conscious dying. Executive Director of the Living/Dying Project in Santa Fe & in the San Francisco Bay Area, Dale is the co-author with Ram Dass, Daniel Goleman and Dwarka Bonner of Journey of Awakening: A Meditator’s Guidebook, and has taught meditation since 1974. Dale lectures and gives workshops on the topics of meditation, healing, spiritual support for those with life-threatening illness, and on caregiving as spiritual practice. He has a doctorate degree from Stanford University.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

“Tibetan Book of the Dead : Fierce Deities, Friends & Gurus” was recorded at Menla‘s Nalanda Conference Center in Phoenicia, New York during the Oct 31st 2015 Halloween Evening Discussion of the 2015 “Death & Deathlessness: Buddhist Insights and Practices for Life, Death & the In-Between Retreat” with Dale Borglum & Robert A.F. Thurman.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a discussion of the work of sociologist Talcott Parsons, Robert A.F. Thurman illustrates how the Buddha’s early Pali Suttas (Samanapala, Kevaddha Sutta, Tevijja Sutta, and Agannya Sutta) were secular in nature offering practical insight and tools for seekers looking beyond traditional religion, ritual and superstition through kindness, fellowship and meditative wisdom.

Includes: a recommendation of the work of Daniel Goldman, an explanation of the Buddha’s rebellion against religion through the redefining of Dharma and Karma within his mendicant community’s practices and an in-depth exploration of the logic of infinitely connected past and future lives through a close line translation of the ‘Samaññaphala Sutta: The Fruits of the Contemplative Life’ and Jataka Tales including the story of the rabbit and the moon.

Key Pali Suttas : Samanapala, Kevaddha Sutta, Tevijja Sutta, Agannya Sutta Burmese Pali Manuscript Photo via Wellcome Collection.

“Key Pali Suttas : Samanapala, Kevaddha Sutta, Tevijja Sutta, Agannya Sutta” is an excerpt the Force For Good : Buddhist Sources and Practices Beyond Religion. A Teacher’s Training Marathon recorded at Tibet House US in 2016.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Opening with a discussion of the work of sociologist Talcott Parsons, Robert A.F. Thurman illustrates how the Buddha’s early Pali Suttas (Samanapala, Kevaddha Sutta, Tevijja Sutta, and Agannya Sutta) were secular in nature offering practical insight and tools for seekers looking beyond traditional religion, ritual and superstition through kindness, fellowship and meditative wisdom.

Podcast includes: a recommendation of the work of Daniel Goldman, an explanation of the Buddha’s rebellion against religion through the redefining of Dharma and Karma within his mendicant community’s practices and an in-depth exploration of the logic of infinitely connected past and future lives through a close line translation of the ‘Samaññaphala Sutta: The Fruits of the Contemplative Life’ and Jataka Tales including the story of the rabbit and the moon.

Second half of podcast begins with a humorous presentation of the Buddha’s core teaching insights as demonstrated through the mischievous (yet traditional) teaching style of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama in his public Dharma events over the years.

Podcast concludes with a reading of the poetry of Naomi Shihab Nye by Gary Gach.

Illustration: Yoshitoshi, Jade Rabbit: Sun Wukong from the series One Hundred Views of the Moon, 1889. Ronin Gallery.

Listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

Gary Gregory Gach is an author, translator, and editor living in San Francisco. A dynamic speaker and teacher in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh’s Plum Village Community of Engaged Buddhism his works include the anthology “What Book!? Buddha Poems from Beat to Hiphop” and the forthcoming “Pause Breathe Smile – Awakening Mindfulness When Meditation is Not Enough”.

Naomi Shihab Nye is a poet, songwriter, and novelist born to a Palestinian father and an American mother in St. Louis, Missouri. Nye is the recipient of numerous honors and awards for her work, including a Lavan Award, the Paterson Poetry Prize, the Carity Randall Prize, and many Pushcart Prizes. She has received fellowships from the Lannan Foundation, the Guggenheim Foundation, and she was a Witter Bynner Fellow. From 2010 to 2015 she served as a Chancellor of the Academy of American Poets.

‘A Force For Good’ is a Tibet House US course to further the Dalai Lama’s contemporary world initiatives, from His Holiness’ American Institute of Buddhist Studies and Mind & Life Institute science dialogues (Universe in a Single Atom) and His creation of Abhidharma 2.0 through the “Science for Monks” programs, his “secular ethics” (Ethics for the New Millennium and Beyond Religion), His nonviolent approach to conflict resolution, including His Nobel Peace Laureate activities to seek dialogue and a win-win reconciliation with China in the face of the ongoing ethnicidal policies in Tibet (Freedom in Exile and Man of Peace: The Illustrated Life Story of Tibet’s Dalai Lama) & along with his emphasis on positive activism (A New Reality: Charter of Universal Responsibility).

This on-going series was inspired by Daniel Goleman’s ‘A Force For Good: The Dalai Lama’s Vision for Our World‘.

To learn more about this year’s Force For Good Series please click the image above or visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.

Detailing the Buddhist concept of Dharma, Robert Thurman introduces the Ten Paramitas through a discussion of art, creativity, stories from the Dalai Lama’s dialogs with Western creatives and depictions of the Buddha’s smile.

Recording includes: an in-depth exploration of the artfulness of the Seventh Paramita: Upāya (Skillful Means or Liberative Art), the relationship of bliss to beauty, the imaginative inspiration found in the “Flower Ornament Sutra”, the nature of Buddhahood, the role of artist as Bodhisattva and the inevitability of every being becoming a Buddha in our infinite, interconnected universe.

“Compassionate Bliss of the Artist – Podcast Bonus” of the Bob Thurman Podcast was recorded the Artist and Buddhist Contemplatives Retreat at Garrison Institute in 2015.

The Artist and Buddhist Contemplatives project was founded to explore Buddhist and art practices. Begun in 2012 the project’s goal is to bring artists together to meet, collaborate, and inspire one another, and to mentor emerging artists. The gatherings explore Buddhism and art, and how both can serve the world.

“Compassionate Bliss of the Artist – Podcast Bonus” of the Bob Thurman Podcastwas brought to you in part by The Artist and Buddhist Contemplatives Project and the Tibet House US and Menla Retreat Membership community.

To listen to more archive recordings from from past Robert A.F. Thurman teachings + public events please consider becoming a Tibet House US member. To Learn about the benefits of Tibet House US Membership please visit: www.tibethouse.us.

The song ‘Dancing Ling’ by Tenzin Choegyal from the album ‘Heart Sutra‘ (2004) by Ethno Super Lounge is used on the Bob Thurman Podcast with artist’s permission, all rights reserved.