“The Buddha always told his disciples not to waste their time and energy in metaphysical speculation. Whenever he was asked a metaphysical question, he remained silent. Instead, he directed his disciples toward practical efforts.”- Thich Nath Hanh
What first thing comes to your mind when you hear "Buddhism"?
Spirituality? Meditation? Monk? Peace? Buddha?
Today when we speak about Buddha or Buddhism, our common understanding tends to center on a spiritual dimension. We imagine a monk wearing a saffron cloth, holding a bowl of food, and separating from earthly, materialistic pleasures.
The idea of Buddha, who withdrew from a materialistic society to embrace mindfulness, doesn't conform to our deeply rooted concepts of modern systems or conventional activities. It appears unconventional to associate Buddha or Buddhism with enterprises, production, profits, wealth, environment, politics, international relations, etc.
But, what if I told you that Buddha discussed topics like economics, production, consumption, wealth, politics, the environment, international relations, and more throughout his teachings? It's quite surprising, isn't it?
Despite the primary objective of Buddha's teachings being the liberation of individuals from suffering, his teachings also sought to facilitate mediation and uncover the interconnectedness of prosperity with societal, political, and economic aspects.
His teachings are so profound that if applied in this 21st-century, it can create a model that is beneficial for everyone and not just few actors (like today).
When contemporary issues are intertwined with Buddhism, it not only encourages ethical and moral conduct but also highlights the ways in which cause and condition operate. This approach suggests that all the modern activities can unfold naturally in harmony with the reality of their course.
But what is wrong with Modern Solutions?
Well, modern solutions either pertaining to economics, polities, psychology or other streams looks into just one facet of the truth.
They usually focus on individualism and maximising personal gains. In contract, Buddhism focuses on collectivism.
Through Dhamma, it tells us ultimate and relative truth, which is not addressed in modern day solutions.
Through Four Noble Truths, it imparts a understanding of natural cycle which can be linked with various contemporary practices like economics and environment.
Through Noble Eight-Fold Path, it shows a way to attain our goals while making sure to be righteous. This is the most important aspect for long-term success whether in business, governance or personal actions.
Through various Sutta and Vinayas, it provides us with insights that answers to our impermanence of life, offering wisdom that can guide our actions and decisions in profound ways.
What is this Forum for?
This is a platform designed for engaging in discussions about modern Buddhism, this forum expands beyond traditional spiritual and mindfulness aspects.
Instead, it seeks to connect Buddhist principles with contemporary 21st century concerns and methodologies, such as economics, business, environmental issues, social justice, feminism, education, psychology, banking, technology, health and many more.
The forum aims to explore how Buddhist teachings can provide insights and solutions to the complex challenges faced in today's world.
By integrating Buddhism with various disciplines and societal issues, the forum fosters a dialogue that examines the relevance and applicability of Buddhist thought in addressing current global issues and individual well-being.
It serves as a space where diverse perspectives converge to explore the intersections of Buddhism with modern life and the broader human experience.
Why this Forum?
There is a significant gap in academia when it comes to connecting Buddhist principles and teachings with modern world problems and finding practical solutions.
This website aims to close that gap.
Through this platform, we plan to explore various contemporary issues that Buddhism can address and offer solutions for.
The forum is to have dialogues on how socially-engaged Buddhism can help modern-day problems.
Mission
The mission is to revive Buddha's principles and apply them to today's consumer-driven capitalist world, not merely through theoretical understanding but through practical implementation.
Call for Action
Join us in reimagining Buddhism for the 21st century—an education system that offers profound wisdom and transformative solutions for today's complex world.
Visit our website: www.thedhammarenaissance.com