It was a packed hall once again as Nalandians came together last night for the first group meditation of the Gimhana Retreat, guided by the founder of Nalanda, Bro. H S Tan. As the gong was struck, the sound reverberated soothingly before fading into nothingness. Thus is the impermanent nature of all conditioned phenomena. Yet, we find ourselves constantly craving, clinging and grasping – material things, people, words, thoughts, or emotions – all of which are so fleeting, so completely empty and selfless. But we latch on anyway, and we hang on tight. We allow ourselves to continually churn and wallow in this unnecessary exercise of mulling over what is past, or what is yet to come.
Read moreThe following is a summary of Bro. Tan's teaching on 20 May 2012, the first day of Nalanda Gimhana Retreat. "Better than a hundred years lived unwisely and indolently, is one day spent in earnest, energetic effort." Dhammapada Verse 112
Read moreWith devoted practice, I honour the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha
Read moreBro. Huat Chye giving encouraging feedback and inspiring food for thought As the participants settled in for this course, they re-examined the main points from Module 1: Effective Management of Human Capital in Buddhist Organisations to reinforce the valuable take-home messages. Participants were then given a “Personal Motivation Questionnaire” (PMQ) to understand what motivates them. The three key areas were – need for Achievement, Affiliation and Power. This helped participants to gain more insight into themselves, understanding what drives them to serve and to lead.
Read moreIntroduction Along with reflections on mindfulness, impermanence, and the end of suffering, the author delves into the topics of rebirth, karma, non-virtue, and the roles of reasoned faith, ritual, and monasticism, revealing their continuing relevance for today’s truth seeker. The investigation on the workings of the mind and the natural world enable readers to deepen their practice and their lives.
Read morePractising meditation and reflecting on gratitude, in honour of our teachers. In Malaysia, 16 May is celebrated as Teachers’ Day. At Nalanda, we expressed our appreciation and gratitude to all teachers through two types of Puja (offerings), that is Patipatti Puja where we performed wholesome deeds – dana, meditation and chanting to honour our teachers, and Amisa Puja which is giving our teachers presents. Nalandians also shared about how their lives were transformed by inspiring teachers.
Read moreThe topic of today's Service Sunday Dhamma talk was, "A Buddhist Reflects on Learning". Dr. Phang spoke on how one ought to approach learning - with an open mind like that of a beginner's - free from preconceptual ideas and willing to explore. When we learn something new, we should also be happy to share it with others and spread the benefits. Rejoice when other people learn from our learnings!
Read moreAfter lunch, the participants went to Pustaka Nalanda for the sharing and discussion on "The Three Jewels (Part 1)".
Read moreIntroduction The editor goes deeper to explore the unique and universal challenges faced by young people on the spiritual path - from issues of identity to mental health and intimate relationships. The book offers the voices of many teenagers and young adults of diverse ethnic heritage, as well as fascinating accounts from established Buddhist teachers - e.g. Thich Nhat Hanh, Ven. H. Gunaratana, etc. - looking back at their own youthful experiences on the path.
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