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Newbie
Hello everyone im new to Buddhism
and i would like to start what can you tell me about Kadampa Buddhism there is a center where i live would this be appropriate for me?
Thank you.
and i would like to start what can you tell me about Kadampa Buddhism there is a center where i live would this be appropriate for me?
Thank you.
0
Comments
It's worth getting acquainted with the controversy surrounding the NKT before getting involved with them. I'm not saying you shouldn't, as I gained many valuable teachings during my time with them, merely that you are not ignorant of the issues surrounding them.
Many Tibetan Buddhists condemn them outright, as the Dali Lama has taken issue with them regarding their continuation of a protector practice called 'Dorje Shugden' but I tend to take a more pragmatic view.
Just get informed and then you will be in a position to make decisions and choices for yourself .
Google up "NKT controversy" for a wealth of information.
Namaste
Well Christian in a sense that i that i think Jesus was Buddha like and think ALL paths lead somewhere good.
As someone investigating Buddhism from a Christian perspective, immersing yourself in an NKT centre (IMHO) could give you a very one-sided view of Buddhism. As guru-worship forms an important part of Tibetan Buddhism, this could be a bit difficult to take on board. There is way more to it than just the NKT or even Tibetan Buddhism. If you compare the situation to the plethora of Christian groups and Churches, you'll get an idea.
A good place to start may be with the Pali suttas (translated of course). Keep it simple and try to get a feeling for the underlying teachings of Buddha. You may find you have many questions, so take it easy. There's no need to throw yourself into any tradition. In fact, as a Christian, why should you?
Indeed.
There are some threads on here along those lines.
Namaste
Have a look at World Buddhist Directory for other centres, if you are interested.
Well wishes. _/\_
You could do a whole lot worse than to read 'Living Buddha Living Christ' by Thich Naht Hanh and also take a look at a very good Book by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, "The Good heart".
To put it bluntly:
Don't touch kadampa with a bargepole, until you are well acquainted with Buddhism, the central teachings and the essence of Buddhism, which is Understanding - and eliminating - suffering.
boundlesswayzen.org
They are as good a place to start as any they have an excellent General programe class and more advanced Foundation programe the monks and nuns are friendly pop in and ask them some question, from the 12 plus years ive been there ive never had a problem.
Whichever centres you go to, investigate very carefully and don't be in a hurry to get too involved straight away.
Its also good to first study Buddha's teachings on the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold path.
Kind wishes,
Dazzle
Human beings occassionally get into trouble with religion because, instead of seeking to develop their inner resources, they are looking for a group of people to attach to.
If you are interested in checking out the NKT then do so. However, only you can discover for yourself what is appropriate for you.
I must admit however, when I visited the NKT and other Tibetan centres, it was only out of curiosity given I had been involved in another Buddhist tradition for many years. The NKT centre seemed the same as any other Buddhist centre. We did some chanting & meditation, listened to some teachings and sat around afterwards chatting over tea & biscuits. No one tried to chain me up, kidnap me or anything.
I love you guys for exploring questions and all giving opinions - without quarelling necessarily and just being you.
So thanks and now BACK TO TOPIC