# Way of Bodhi > Wisdom, Compassion, Openness ## Posts - [The Heart Sutra](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-heart-sutra/): प्रज्ञापारमिताहृदयसूत्रम्। Opening Homage अवाच्ये अचिन्त्ये प्रज्ञापारमितेऽवर्णनीये । avācye acintye prajñāpāramite’varṇanīye | Beyond words, beyond thought, beyond expression, O Prajñāpāramitā  ! अनुत्पादे अनिरोधे आकाशस्वभावात्मके ॥ anutpāde anirodhe ākāśasvabhāvātmake || Unborn and unceasing, the very essence of space, स्वसंवेदनज्ञानस्यै गोचराऽसि निरामये । svasaṃvedanajñānasyai gocarā’si nirāmaye | Experienced as the pristine wisdom of one’s own awareness, [O, Unstained One!] नमस्तुभ्यं भगवति त्रिकालजिनमातायै ॥ namastubhyaṃ bhagavati trikālajinamātāyai || Homage to you, [the Great Luminosity], the mother of the buddhas of the three times! भगवतीप्रज्ञापारमिताहृदयसूत्रम्। Bhagavatīprajñāpāramitā Hṛdaya Sūtram  The Heart-essence of the Transcendental Perfection of Wisdom [विस्तरमातृका][vistaramātṛkā](Extensive version) नमो भगवत्यै प्रज्ञापारमितायै | namo bhagavatyai prajñāpāramitāyai - [Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/dhammacakkappavattana-sutta/): Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta ( Setting the Wheel of Dhamma in Motion) is the first teaching the Buddha.Here, Buddha expounds the Middle Path and the Four Noble Truths. - [Turning of the Wheel of Dharma](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/turning-of-the-wheel-of-dharma/): Turning of the Wheel of Dharma (Dharma Cakra Pravartana) - the process by which the Buddha's teachings transform our minds - [Compassion - The Profound Stirring That Overcomes Passivity](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/compassion-the-profound-stirring-that-overcomes-passivity/): Kindness calms. Compassion Propels. Compassion stirs us forward. It awakens within us a profound recognition. - [Putheri (Buddheri) - The Southern most Stupa of Ancient India](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/putheri-buddheri-the-southern-most-stupa-of-ancient-india/): An ancient Buddhist Stupa is found in Putheri, on the outskirts of Nagercoil, in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu. This Stupa is, as of now, the southernmost Buddhist Stupa found in India. A statue of a standing Buddha holding an alms bowl can be seen in front of the Stupa. - [History of Buddhism in Kerala](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/history-of-buddhism-in-kerala/): There was wide-spread presence of Buddhism in Kerala from the 3rd Century BCE to at least the 12th Century CE. Some world-renowned scholars and yogis in the Mahayana Buddhist tradition like Bhavaviveka, Vajrabodhi, Ayyappa and Paramabuddha were from Kerala. The practices of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara and Bodhisattva Tara originated and spread from Potalaka (Agastyakoodam / Potikai) in the Malaya mountains to the rest of the world. There were also some world-renowned Mahayana Viharas in Kerala, such as Sreemoolavasam. - [Like a bird flying through the vast expanse](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/simile-of-a-bird-in-flight/): A bird in flight is a commonly used simile in the teachings of the Buddha in various contexts. At different contexts this simile indicates tracelessness, groundlessness, unobstructedness and effortlessness. - [This Moment - The Delight in this Day of Excellence](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/this-moment/): The door to peace and wisdom that the Buddha showed is not in tomorrow and not after death. It is here, now, at this very moment. The present moment is the only way for us to be in contact with reality. The present, this moment, comes between the past and the future without abiding for even a moment. Yet, in this seemingly little moment is the expansive openness! This very moment opens up vast possibilities. - [The Liberation Story of Punnika, a Girl from an Oppressed Caste](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/liberation-story-of-punnika-theri/): The liberation story of Punnika Theri. A girl from an oppressed caste, her life transformed upon listening to the Buddha. Later, her wisdom transformed the Brahmin Udakasuddhika. The below narration is based on the liberation songs of Punnika and Udakasuddhika. The songs are present in Therīgātha, a collection of the liberation songs of the Buddha’s female disciples. - [Buddhism in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-kallakurichi-tamil-nadu/): An ancient Buddha statue found in Ulagiyanallur and the dilapidated structure of a vihara from the first millennium is clear evidence of the presence of Buddhism in Kallakurichi dist, Tamil Nadu. - [Buddhism in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-cuddalore-tamil-nadu/): The presence of Buddhism in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu is evident from ancient statues of Buddha found in Thiruvathigai and Pennadam, as well as from the local legends related to the Veerattaneswarar temple. - [Buddhism in Tiruvannamalai, the ancient remnants](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-tiruvannamalai-ancient-buddha-statues/): Just as in the rest of Tamil Nadu, the presence of Buddhism in Tiruvannamalai district in ancient times is also revealed by ancient Buddha statues and other archeological remains found in Padavedu. - [Ancient Buddha Statues of Salem and Dharmapuri](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-salem-dharmapuri/): As can be expected from the names of these places, Salem and Dharmapuri are rich in their Buddhist heritage. We can spot some unique Buddha statues in Salem district. The name Dharmapuri (the City of Dharma) indicates that it was a Buddhist center during the ancient days. - [A Drop of Kindness](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/a-drop-of-kindness/): A drop of kindness within turns into an effluence of joy, when a helping hand extends to others. - [Buddha Statues of Buddhamangalam and Peruncheri.](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddha-statues-of-buddhamangalam-and-peruncheri/): In Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu, many ancient Buddhist remains were rediscovered over the last century. Of those, Peruncheri and Buddhamangalam have a large statue of Buddha each now preserved in small viharas. - [Buddha statue that looks like Guru Rinpoche in Mangalam](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/ancient-buddha-statue-tamilnadu-lookslike-gururinpoche/): In Mangalam, Musiri Talkuk, Tamil Nadu, there is an ancient Buddha statue that looks like Guru Rinpoche. According to Tibetan scholar Taranatha, Guru Rinpoche has also taught in Kanchi in Tamil Nadu. - [Kalya Caves - Remains of Buddhism in Bangalore](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/kalya-caves-buddhism-in-bangalore/): Kalya in Magadi near Bangalore has a few caves where Buddhist, Jain and Shaivite Yogis and Siddhas stayed and meditated in ancient days. According to the inscriptions there the earlier name of the place is Bauddhava-samaha-puri. A few Buddhist statues are still present in the Kallesvara cave. - [Buddhism in Ariyalur - a Land of Ancient Viharas](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-ariyalur/): There was strong presence of Buddhism in Ariyalur district of Tamil Nadu, as it is evident from the abundance of ancient Buddha statues found there. The etymology of the place also indicates that it was a prominent centre of Buddhist leaning. - [Buddhism in Tiruchirappalli - Place of an Ancient Vihara](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-tiruchirappalli/): The presensce of Mahayana Buddhism in Tiruchirappalli is all through the Chola period is evident from some of the Buddha statues recovered from this region. - [A Majestic Vestige of Buddhism in Pushpavanam](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-pushpavanam-nagapttinam-buddha-statue/): A majestic vestige of the foregone era of Buddhism in Pushpavanam, Nagapattinam can be seen at the coastal village of Pushpavnam in Tamil Nadu. There sits a Buddha statue beneath an ancient banyan tree. - [Buddhism in Thanjavur and Kumbakonam in Ancient Days](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-thanjavur-and-kumbakonam-tamilnadu/): Revealing the rich heritage of Buddhism in Thanjavur and Kumbakonam from its ancient period, many statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas were obtained. - [Buddhism in Perambalur, Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-perambalur-tamil-nadu-in-ancient-times/): Perambalur district of Tamil Nadu has two ancient Buddha statues. One of them, a 5ft high statue in Ogalur village is known locally as ‘Dubai Buddha’. Around 10km from Ogalur is another village called Paravai. There, in a bus stop in a four-way junction sits another ancient Buddha statue around 4ft in height. - [Buddhism in Thiruvarur, Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-thiruvarur-tamil-nadu-in-ancient-times/): There was widespread presence of Buddhism in the Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu for a very long period. Statues and other Buddhist artifacts were discovered from places like Thirunellikaval, Kodavasal, Valangaiman, Sellur, Kiranur, etc. - [Buddhism in Banavasi, an Archeological Treasure Trove](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-banavasi-in-karnataka/): There was strong presence of Buddhism in Banavasi right from the time of Emperor Ashoka. Sravakayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana flourished there till 12th Cen. - [Buddhism in Balligavi, a Medieval Center of Learning in Karnataka](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-balligavi-a-medieval-center-of-learning-in-karnataka/): There was a strong presence of Mahayana / Vajrayana Buddhism in Balligavi, Shimoga Dist, Karnataka during the period from the 10th to 12th Century CE. During that time, in Balligavi, there were renowned centers of learning of five systems including Buddhism. Inscriptions indicate that there was also a tradition of Buddhist Yoginis. - [Buddhism in Dharwad, Gadag and Koppal](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-dharwad-gadag-and-koppal/): History of Vajrayana Buddhism in Dharwad, Gadag and Koppal districts - the Central Karnataka region during Kalyani Chalukyas(Western Chalukya) rule. The spread of Tara. - [The Hidden Buddhist Treasures of the Badami Caves](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-badami-caves/): The history of Buddhism in Badami Caves is revealed by the buddhist carvings in the natural cave formation in the cliff-face of the sandstone quartzite hills as well as by the statue of the Buddha in the Kostaraya cave at the south-east corner of the lake. - [Buddhism in Aihole - The Chalukya Period in Karnataka](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-aihole-chalukya-period-in-karnataka/): Buddhism in Aihole, North Karnataka, flourished during the early period of Chalukya rule. Remains of a Buddhist monastery, and some Buddha and Bodhisattva statues are found in this place. - [Buddhism in Coastal Karnataka](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-coastal-karnataka/): Buddhism was widespread in coastal Karnataka in ancient times. Buddhist statues are found in various places like Kadri in Mangalore, Haigunda, Babruwada and Mulur-Udupi. Kadri also had a Vajrayana Buddhist vihara. - [Ancient Buddhist statues unearthed in Sellur, Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/ancient-buddhist-statues-unearthed-in-sellur-tamil-nadu/): Statues and Stupas from Sellur in Later Chola Period In 2004, T. Ramalingam, a farmer in Sellur (Kodavasal Taluk, Thiruvarur dist. Tamil Nadu), was digging his property to lay foundations for his house. To his amazement, he came across a great treasure trove of Buddhist artifacts underneath the soil. There were 42 pieces of ancient Buddhist bronze statues and three stone and marble statues that reveal many facts about a flourishing period of Buddhism in Thiruvarur during the later Chola period (11-13th Century CE) (Ref-A). The farmer handed over these statues to Chennai Museum. The accidental discovery of this collection - [Nagapattinam - The last citadel of Buddhism in South India](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-nagapattinam-tamil-nadu/): Around 350 statues of Buddha and Bodhisattvas and some stupas were uncovered from Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu a century back showing the widespread presence all schools of Buddhism including Mahayana and Vajrayana in this locality. Buddhists artifacts from this locality dates from the 2nd Century CE to 17th Century CE, making it one of the first as well as last citadels of Buddhism in South India. - [Pakshitheertham - The Sacred Place of the Birds](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhist-legends-of-pakshi-theertham/): A 16th Century TIbetan Buddhist Master, Taranatha mentions about Tamil Nadu's Pakshitheertham's Buddhist past in his book ‘History of Buddhism in India’. This place continued to have that association with birds till recently. - [Ancient Buddha Statues of Pondicherry](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/ancient-buddha-statues-of-pondicherry/): Pondicherry has a few ancient Buddha statues from the 10th to 12th Century. Two of them are in Museum and one is worshipped in a temple in Ariyankuppam. Another is lost. - [Poompuhar - A Long Lost City from the Sangam Age](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/ancient-buddhist-places-of-tamilnadu-poompuhar/): Poompuhar was probably the earliest of the cities in the Dravida Land to have a Buddhist presence, right from the early Sangam period itself. Remains of a monastery and ancient Buddha statues were obtained from this place. - [Buddhism in Kanchi - An Ancient City of Learning](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-kanchi-tamilnadu/): Kanchi (Kanchipuram) in Tamil Nadu was the most significant Buddhist center of learning in South India. Kanchi produced world-renowned scholars and masters of Buddhism such as Bodhidharma, Dignaga, Dharmapala, Buddhaghosa, etc., spanning across Sravakayana and Mahayana. It is also one of the twenty-four power places of Vajrayana Buddhism. - [Dealing with History without Attachment](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/history-without-attachment/): Exploration of history and archeological evidence of Buddhism in South India shows that Buddhism had been widespread in the South at least till the middle of the last millennium. While historical explorations dispel the attachment to misperceptions about heritage, we should also take care not to turn these new findings into another object of attachment and a cause for negative emotions. - [Paramabuddha (Padampa Sangye) and Ayyappa](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/paramabuddha-padampa-sangye-ayyappan/): Paramabuddha (Padampa Sangye), an Indian Buddhist Mahasiddha, taught Zhije & Chod in Tibet. his birthplace can be identified to be in Kerala, near Sabarimala hills. His connection with Ayyappa is also explored. - [Precious than Gold - The Maski Rock Edict of Ashoka](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/maski-rock-edict-of-ashoka/): The southern state of Karnataka has about ten edicts of Ashoka. Among those, Maski edict turned out to be of critical importance in archeologically discovering the history of India. This rock edict discovered by a gold-mining engineer contains a precious message that is worthier than gold. - [Ancient Buddha Statues of Kerala](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/ancient-buddha-statues-of-kerala/): Many ancient Buddha statues, dating back to 7th Century CE onwards were discovered from various parts of Kerala. These Buddha statues smile to the world even today as the embodiment of peace, sublime thought, and the excellence of intellectual climate that prevailed in the region in the foregone eras. - [The Way of Wholesome Living - Buddhism for Day to Day Life](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/way-of-wholesome-life-buddhism-for-day-to-day-life/): The Buddha’s teachings are not only about Nirvana and Enlightenment. There is also a Way of Wholesome Living for those who haven’t set their aim on Nirvana. It is Buddhism for day to day life, for enhancing wellbeing and cultivating skills for this life. - [Rajaghatta - The Remains of a Mahayana Buddhist Monastery in Bangalore](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/rajaghatta-remains-of-mahayana-buddhism-in-bangalore/): Rajaghatta in the outskirts of Bangalore,South India was a Buddhist settlement from 2nd century to 7th century CE. Archeologists unearthed the remains of a Mahayana Buddhist Chaitya hall and Vihara (Monastery) along with stupas, in this village. - [Buddha has no 'Religion'](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddha-has-no-religion/): Buddha has no 'religion'. He transcends all religious clinging. In the pristine clarity of Bodhi, is the Buddha with his great compassion. So, too is the Way that the Buddha taught. - [Dwelling as a Lamp unto Oneself - Attadipa sutta](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/attadipa-sutta-dwelling-as-a-lamp-unto-oneself/): “Therefore, Ānanda, dwell as a lamp unto yourself, refuge unto yourself, seeking no other refuge; With Dhamma as your lamp, Dhamma as your refuge, seeking no other refuge.” These words clearly show how the Way of the Tathagata is to be followed as a Way that goes beyond religion. - [Kill the Mind to Reveal the Sahaja - Mahasiddha Tilopa](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/mahasiddha-tilopa-sahaja/): These words are from the Dohakosha of the great Indian Mahasiddha Tilopa. Tilopa’s sahajīya poetry - his dohas, are composed in Apabhramsha, a dialect spoken those days in the North Indian plains. - [Oneness without oneness - On Mahasiddha Shavaripa](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/mahasiddha-shavaripa-oneness/): Mahasiddha Shabaripada (Shavaripa): oneness of one-taste of Great Bliss is not an oneness to be grasped on to. Leading to carefree conduct and compassion - [Awakening is in Our Nature - The Buddha Nature](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/awakening-buddha-nature/): The qualities of awakening - profound peace, luminosity, compassion, etc. - are naturally present as the true nature of mind - the Buddha nature. Here, we shall see how the natural state remains obscured and can be rediscovered. - [Pervading the World with Metta - Kakacupama Sutta](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/kakacupama-sutta-metta/): In  Kakacupama Sutta and Maha-Rahulovada Sutta, the Buddha teaches how to maintain the attitude of boundless lovingkindness (maitri/ metta) and compassion (karuna) to all beings, as the unshaken basis for one’s relationship with the world. The Tathagata shows  how pervading the world with this deep sense of kindness and compassion lead us to experience profound peace, patience and openness. - [The Fleeting Dreams of Reality - On the Nature of Dream and Reality](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/dream-and-reality/): The solidity that we attribute to our existence is similar to the solidity that we attribute to dreams while we are in the dream. This article explores the empty nature of reality in experiential terms through parallels between dream state and waking state - [The Splendor of Transience - Lalitavistara Sutra on Impermanence](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/splendor-of-transience-lalitavistara/): For someone who do not notice the dreamlike nature of life, impermanence of life can be a depressing fact. But, contemplating on impermanence in this way breaks open the cocoon of wrong view. Then, we can recognize the play of awareness in its full splendor and beauty, all through this life and beyond. In Lalitavistara Sutra Buddha points to this fact. - [Sahaja Yoga - The Way of Saraha](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/sahaja-yoga-of-saraha/): Dohakosha of Mahasiddha Saraha is one of the first in the doha style of poetry to appear in India. In this beautiful song, Saraha teaches the path of Sahaja-yoga (the natural way). Saraha (सरहा /Sarahapada) was one of the great Indian Buddhist Mahasiddhas. - [Sreemoolavasam - an Ancient Buddhist Monastery in Kerala](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/sreemoolavasam/): Sreemoolavasam Mahayana Monastery was one of the ancient Buddhist centers in South India (in South Kerala) and had a famous Avalokitesvara statue, with Tara and Bhrikuti on two sides. The then Ay King Vikamaditya Varaguna was a patron of this monastery. - [Existence is Absurd without Compassion](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/existence-is-absurd-without-compassion/): Our existence is absurd and utterly meaningless if we remain cocooned in the shell of self-interest. In that case, Samsara is a never-ending struggle of emotions and confusions with uncertain bouts of pain and pleasure. However, when the sprouts of great compassion for all beings without partiality arise in us, a it turns into the mind of awakening, Bodhicitta. - [Bodhidharma - a Trilogy on his Life and Teachings](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/bodhidharma-trilogy/): A biographical sketch of Bodhidharma along with an introduction to his essential teachings. The first part narrates his life story. The second part of the trilogy delves deeper into his teachings. The final part explores Bodhidharma’s links with martial arts and healing traditions of India, China and Sri Lanka. - [The Wild Leaps of Awakening - Bodhidharma and Martial Arts](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/bodhidharma-and-martial-arts/): This final part of the trilogy on Bodhidharma explores the pivotal role played by Bodhidharma in turning martial arts into a fine art of awakening. Due to the contributions of Bodhidharma and other masters of his genre, martial arts of India, China, Far East and Sri Lanka came to share many commonalities and turned into extensions of inner peace. - [Padampa Sangye - Enjoying the Sublime Wealth](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/padampa-sangye-paramabuddha-quote1/): Paramabuddha (known as Padampa-Sangye in Tibet), is a Mahasiddha from the 12th Century South India. He gave this advice to the villagers of Tingri in Tibet. - [Breaking the Silence - The Teachings of Bodhidharma](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/bodhidharma-teachings/): This second part of the trilogy on Bodhidharma, goes deeper into Bodhidharma's teachings, including the two methods Bodhidharma taught for entering the Way. We shall also see how Bodhidharma’s teachings fit within the broader context of various Mahayana methods. - [The Three Full Moons](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-three-full-moons-buddha-poornima/): The Three Full Moons - ".... Though the full moon of that night too vanished, the moon light of awakening never waned. ..." - A poetry on the three full moons of Vaisakha month associated with the Buddha's life. - [Transcending Movement and Stillness - The Life of Bodhidharma](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/bodhidharma-lifestory/): In this the first of a trilogy on Bodhidharma (Damo/Pútídámó in China and Daruma /Bodaidaruma in Japan), a sketch of his life and instructions is presented - [How to be Cool and Cut the Fuel to Anger](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/anger-management-daurmanasya/): One of the smartest ways to control anger and hatred is to cut its fuel. It is called daurmanasya. It is like a reservoir of highly inflammatory fuel, that only needs a spark to burst into an explosion of anger and hatred. Depleting that fuel also leads to a positive outlook to life. - [Carefree Expanse - Careful Conduct](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/carefree-expanse-careful-conduct/): It is said that one should descend with the view from above and ascend with the conduct from below. It is equally important to maintain a view as vast and open like the sky, and to engage in conduct with precise regard for the cause and effect relations. - [The Raft, to be Left Aside](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/diamond-sutra-and-alagaddupama-sutta/): In Diamond Sutra and the Alagaddupama sutta, the Buddha taught that his teachings are like a raft, to be used for a purpose and to be left aside without clinging on to. The raft simile also summarizes the meaning of the three turnings into one line. Here, we shall see how the four types of clinging are utterly abandoned using the three turnings of the teaching. - [The Crystal Mirror Theater of One's Own Awareness](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/crystal-mirror-theater-thinley-norbu-rinpoche/): Thinley Norbu Rinpoche: "In the crystal mirror theater of awareness, mind the supreme artist, performs his magical displays, but rare is the clear insight audience capable of viewing this wisdom. " - [Avalokitesvara, the Magnificent Play of Compassion](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/avalokitesvara-the-magnificent-play-of-compassion1/): On the magnificent play of compassion, Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara - a commentary to the Avalokitesvara section of Gandavyuha Sutra. - [Knowing One Thing Liberates All](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/knowing-one-thing-liberates-all/): Although hundreds or thousands of explanations are given, there is only one thing to be understood - know the one thing that liberates everything - awareness itself, your true nature. If that one thing is ignored, everything else turn into speculative philosophy and mere proliferation of concepts. - [Natural Meditation](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/natural-meditation-according-to-dzogchen/): Though there are many ways to meditate, ultimately meditation means to familiarize with the recognition of the nature of one’s own awareness. As you effortlessly maintain an unceasing flow of that recognition, whatever thoughts and perceptions arise are like the waves of an ocean of awareness. - [Sedaka Sutta - The Mindful Balance](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/sedaka-sutta-mindful-balance/): On Sedaka Sutta: One takes care of oneself by practicing mindfulness. One takes care of others by practicing mindfulness. Taking care of oneself, one takes care of others. Taking care of others, one takes care of oneself. - [Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche - The View Brings a Smile](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/dilgo-khyentse-rinpoche-view-brings-smile/): Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche on the View of Dzogpa Chenpo and how the view cultivates a great evenness of Samsara and Nirvana and brings a smile. - [Ploughing the Realm of Mind - Kasibharadvaja sutta](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/kasibharadvaja-sutta-ploughing-mind/): In kasibharadvaja sutta, the Buddha explains the way of cultivating mind by using the simile of ploughing the field. Like the farmer Bharadvaja, even today, people confuse meditation to be simply idling. This sutra shows how it should be as involved and engaged as farming. - [Kyabje Penor Rinpoche on Emptiness](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/penor-rinpoche-on-emptiness/): Kyabje Drubwang Pema Norbu Rinpoche (Penor Rinpoche) on how to understand emptiness as the nature of one's own mind. From a teaching in 1999. - [The Way of Making of Aspirations](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/aspiration-prayer-shantideva/): Prayers in Buddhism are used as skilful means to attune the mind to the noble way and to soak oneself with the habits of noblest qualities such as discipline, altruism and equanimity. In Mahayana, prayers take a grand dimension of raising one’s aspirations to that of a Bodhisattva. - [The Bliss of Restraint to the Bliss of Freedom - on Mucalinda Sutta](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/mucalinda-sutta-bliss-of-restraint-freedom/): A Commentary on Mucalinda Sutta. The gatha expressed in this sutra teaches four ways to blissfully protect mind and remain in proper composure. Here is an explanation of it as the stages of the path as well as powerful ways to regain composure while engaging in daily life. - [Makkata Sutta - The Proper Pastures to Wander](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/makkata-sutta-proper-pasture-to-wander/): The Buddha used the examples of monkeys in Makkata Sutta to show what the improper postures to wander are and what the proper posture are. - [Examining Dharma like a Goldsmith](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddha-quote-examining-like-goldsmith/): Examining dharma like how a goldsmith examines gold - [The Army of Love and Compassion](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/thirty-seven-practices-anger-management/): A teaching on anger management based on Glayse Ngulchu Thogme Zangpo's lines from the thirty-seven verses on the practice of a bodhisattva. - [The Boundless Heart of Loving Kindness (Metta)](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/boundless-heart-loving-kindness-metta-sutta/): Loving kindness is not merely an ethical principle, but an essential training of mind and the very key that opens the door to realizations. See what it means to cultivate a boundless heart of loving kindness. Also, learn how to meditate on loving kindness. - [Beyond Seeking](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/beyond-seeking-quote-from-diamond-sutra/):     Whoever looks for me in form, whoever follows me as sound, Engaged in the mistaken endeavours, they do not see me. The Buddhas are seen as dharmata, the dharmakaya of the Tathagatas Just as dharmata is not a knowable, it cannot be cognized. – the Buddha, in Diamond Sutra (Vajra-cchedika-sutra)   ये मां रूपेण अद्राक्षुर् ये मां घोषेण अन्वयुः मिथ्याप्रहाणप्रसृता न मां द्रक्ष्यन्ति ते जनाः | द्रष्टव्यो धर्मतो बुद्धो धर्मकायस् तथागतः धर्मता च अप्यविज्ञेया न सा शक्यं विजानितुम्॥ Seeking the Buddha is not like a bee seeking honey. One does not find the Buddha by looking for him - [The Austerity of Patience](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/shantideva-patience-controling-anger/): A teaching based on Shantideva's verse on the faults of anger and the austerity of patience - the first step towards cultivating patience and controlling anger - [Longchenpa: Looking for Mind in the Three Times](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/longchenpa-quote-on-looking-for-mind/):     It is seen neither in the past Nor in the future. It does not enter the present, Remaining where it is. Do not use mind to look for mind, Just let it be …     Longchen Rabjam is an omniscient yogi of Tibet. The name Longchen Rabjam means the “the Infinite Great Expanse’ – the space of awareness. His another name is Drime Ozer – the Stainless Ray of Light.  These names truly show what he is. Longchenpa gave the most profound practical instructions and vast expositions on the practice of Dzogpa Chenpo (The Great Perfection). His - [The Traceless Awakening](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/traceless-awakening-zen-dogen-quote/): Awakening beyond bias and concepts, into the naked and traceless nature of one’s awareness that sees reality as it is. One reaches there by letting go of Self and wiping out even the traces of awakening. All things are awakened. A teaching based on the Zen Master Dogen's Genjōkōan - [The Right over the Fruit of Action - on Karma and its Effects](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-right-over-the-fruit-of-karma/): An explanation on how our future is in our own hands. Explores the age old dilemma in the Indian thinking, "Is it correct to do an action with the motivation of a specific result?" - [The Power of Non-hatred](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/power-non-hatred-dhammapada/): When the voice of the messengers of peace will be heard louder than those of the hate speeches, when people find inspiration in the messages of harmony, tolerance and love, a nation enters its golden era. In contrast, when hate speeches and calls for persecution fill the air, ... - [Thirty-Seven Verses on the Practice of a Bodhisattva](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/thirty-seven-verses-practice-bodhisattva/): Thirty Seven Verses on the Practice of a Bodhisattva (Gyalse Laglen) by Gyalse Ngulchu Thogme Zangpo., - An English translation. This text gives a summary of mind training steps on the path of Bodhisattvas - [In Praise of Worshipping Sentient Beings - Sattvaradhana Stavam](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/praise-worshipping-sentient-beings/): Acharya Nagarjuna's Sativaaraadhana stavam - In Praise of Worshipping Sentient Beings - Sanskrit original along with English translation. A mind training text explaining how to view and relate to other beings. - [Greatest Generosity and Highest Meditation - Bodhidharma](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/bodhidharma-quote-generosity-n-meditation/): A short teaching on how to discover the brilliant expanse of one's own mind through the correct generosity and the correct meditation. (based on a quote from Bodhidharma) - [The Lake-born Vajra - Guru Padmasambhava](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-lake-born-vajra-guru-padmasambhava/): A poetry in homage to Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche). " ... The space of mind swirls up as playful maidens, the effortless play of spontaneous perfection! Perceptions turn into the mandala of awakening! In this wondrous display, I rest in evenness. ... " - [The Symbols of Living Dharma](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-symbols-of-living-dharma/): The sacred objects of Buddhism such as statues and scriptures are aids for working with one’s own mind. Masters cautioned not to turn them into objects of conflicts and not to be upset by their destruction. The way to protect Dharma is by being a living lamp of peace, wisdom and compassion ... - [The Joyous Explosion](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/joyous-explosion-the-liberating-prajna/): A poetry that explores the connection between the noble eight-fold path of the Buddha and the experience of non-dual non-conceptual awakening. "... In the withering away of the matrix of ego and concepts, Is the explosive joy of empty mind!" - [The Play of Wisdom](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/wisdom-play-hh-penor-rinpoche/): A Homage to His Holiness Drubwang Pema Norbu Rinpoche (Penor Rinpoche), a great contemporary master of Buddhism. "... O, gentle and loving, the boundless expanse! ... as a cool breeze that dissolved ego’s hardness. ... the youthfulness of naked awareness!" - [Acharya Nagarjuna - the Second Buddha](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/acharya-nagarjuna-second-buddha/): One of the greatest figures of rationality and critical thinking world has ever seen. He is revered by the Mahayana Buddhists as the Second Buddha and many streams of enlightened traditions such as Zen, Dzogchen, Anuttara Tantra and Nalanda scholasticism comes through him. - [The Genuine Freedom - What it Takes to be a Freethinker?](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/freethinker-what-it-takes/): We claim to be “free thinkers”. But, are we really free in our thoughts? If this is so, we must be thinking from clear and direct wisdom unstained by habitual presumptions, inclinations and taboos. Often, that is not the case. Whatever we hear, does it remain inside as just pieces of information we can use freely? Rather, it molds us to think in specific ways. What we hear turns into bondage - of presumptions, inclinations and taboos. - [Living in Spacious Awareness](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/life-and-meditation-in-spacious-awareness/): This is an introduction, a broad overview, of what it means to practice Buddhism. The Buddha taught how to open the casket of our minds, to the vast expanse inside and outside. That relies on a simple point. That is to be aware – clearly, openly and spaciously. This is done by harmonizing the view, meditation and conduct. - [The Lamp of Wisdom - A poem on the Buddha](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/the-lamp-of-wisdom/): A reflection on the life of the Buddha. "... You forewent the kingdom ... rising beneath the Bodhi Tree, you became the king of kings! ... The beautiful groves that kings offered ... you turned them into gardens of peace, ... cradles of human awakening! ... - [Way of Bodhi](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/way-of-bodhi/): Way of Bodhi - a poem on the open journey to awakening: " ... Let the warmth of bodhi melt the borders! Let us walk together in that great expanse! ..." - [Buddhism - a Path beyond Religion](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-a-path-beyond-religion/): At one level, Buddhism offers practical tools that anyone can use irrespective of their religion. Beyond that, to fully benefit, one has to break free from all sorts of religious clinging – theistic, atheistic and agnostic, to take an open journey of awareness – with reason and direct seeing. Here is an analysis on this crucial point to understand Buddhism. - [Freedom](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/freedom/): Freedom - a poetry by Yogi Prabodha Jnana, exploring various aspects of freedom - outer and inner. The ultimate freedom comes from inner expanse. " ... Fetters of emotions turn into a play of joyous compassion! Clouds of confusion dissolve in the clear expanse! ..." - [Behind that Strength](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/reflections-on-buddhism-in-india/): Along with the demise of Buddhism in India, its birthplace, the insight into its deeper meaning also vanished from here without a trace. Yet there still remains in this land the inspiration that the Awakened One, the Buddha provided through his fearlessness and purity, his views on social equality and his doctrine of non-violence and compassion. ## Pages - [Contact](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/contact/): Contact Way of Bodhi Address Bodhikshetra Buddha ViharaNo 51PTP NagarThiruvananthapuram 695038Kerala, India Phone +91 9886301090 Email info@wayofbodhi.org Buddha Vihara Bodhikshetra Buddha ViharaNo 51PTP NagarThiruvananthapuram 695038KeralaIndia Get Directions - [Buddhism in Tamil Nadu](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-tamil-nadu/): In our travels in search of the ancient Buddha statues of Tamil Nadu, we came across many Buddha and Bodhisattva statues from the 1st – 16th Century CE timeframe. As of today, though Tamilians are not so much aware of the history of Buddhism in the Tamil land, and though many of them consider Buddhism to be a foreign system belonging to Sri Lanka, the fact is the other way around. From almost every district of Tamil Nadu, ancient Buddha statues have been discovered. Tamil Nadu had wide-spread presence of all forms of Buddhism including Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana. Many - [Buddhism in Karnataka](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-karnataka/): The ancient Buddhist movement in Karnataka left behind some of its finest archeological remains here though the movement itself was short-lived in comparison with that of the rest of South India. Buddhism reached Karnataka in its very early phase itself, as most of Karnataka was under the direct rule of Emperor Ashoka. Two stupas built by Ashoka with the relics of the Buddha and many Ashokan rock edicts adorned this land. Many of the early dynasties in Karnataka such as Satavahanas, Chutus, Badami Chalukyas, Western Gangas, Pallavas, Kadamabas and Rashtrakutas were supportive of the Buddhist movement. Remains of some Mahayana - [Buddhism in Kerala](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/buddhism-in-kerala/): Soon to come Potalaka – Sacred mountain of Avalokitesvara - [Way of Bodhi - An Open Way of Awakening](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/about-way-of-bodhi/open-way/):   Way of Bodhi is the practice of Buddhism as a way of living with deepening wisdom awareness. In fact, awakening in Buddhism is always through such an open way. This open approach to life, the way of wakeful awareness and compassion, cuts through all religiosity.  Every step is a path as long as we sail with the light of prajna (insightful understanding) and maintain sensitivity to the concerns of others. Barriers of religion, culture, race, etc. fall apart as we approach life with open awareness. As the hallucinations of boundaries that separate us from the rest of the sentient - [Papers on the History of Buddhism](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/papers-history-buddhism/): The Evolution of Buddhist Thought This paper explores the evolution of Buddhist thought in relation to the social and philosophical contexts of India. Buddhist philosophy evolved for around 1500 years in India with developments in logic, epistemology, phenomenology, cognitive theories, etc. Some of these works are master pieces of structured philosophy. An evaluation of the history of Buddhist thought and its exchanges with other schools also reveals an overall picture of the evolution of Indian thought. India did not assume a monolithic religious, social and philosophical identity and showed great tolerance, openness and acceptance to revolutionary and revisionist ideas. This - [Meditation](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/meditation/) - [Articles](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/articles/) - [Yogini Abhaya Devi](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/yogini-abhaya-devi/): Abhaya Devi – Bauddha Yogini (Buddhist Yogini), meditation teacher, writer, artist, co-founder of “Way of Bodhi”. Yogini Abhaya Devi writes and gives discourses on Buddhist philosophy and meditation. She divides her time between meditation retreats, writing, exploration of Buddhist philosophy, history and art, and guiding others in practising Buddhism. Eager to understand the nature of reality and the meaning behind the spiritual experiences she had, she journeyed through various philosophies and spiritual traditions from childhood. Meanwhile, she found her life companion in Yogi Prabodha Jnana who was also on a similar quest. Then, both of them continued their exploration together. After - [Yogi Prabodha Jnana](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/yogi-prabodha-jnana/): Prabodha Jnana – Bauddha Yogi (Buddhist Yogi), meditation teacher, philosopher, writer, co-founder of “Way of Bodhi”. Other Sites Buddhism in Malayalam Random Thoughts in Malayalam Bodhikshetra Buddha Vihara Yogi Prabodha Jnana writes and gives discourses based on the wisdom teachings of the Buddha in a format suitable for the modern context. He also gives individualized guidance in meditation and the journey towards awakening. According to him, the correct Buddhist practice goes beyond religion. It is about discovering in direct experience, the simplicity and peace of mind with its natural qualities of clarity and compassion. Religious and philosophical clinging have no - [About Way of Bodhi](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/about-way-of-bodhi/): ‘Way of Bodhi’ is about embarking on a journey of life with inner freedom, peace, wisdom, compassion and responsiveness. It goes beyond the limits of religions and dogmas, to discover the Buddha within – our own innately perfect qualities. Peace, happiness and excellent qualities naturally flourish if we abandon dogmatic positions and recognize the true nature of ourselves and the world. Awakening is not a distant goal. It is not at the end of the Way; It is the Way. By living with wakeful awareness and insight, we can turn every moment of life into a fresh spurt of freedom, - [In Praise of Worshipping Sentient Beings](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/in-praise-of-worshipping-sentient-beings/): सत्त्वाराधन स्तवं Sattvārādhana stavam Composed in Sanskrit poetry by Acharya Nagarjuna based on the words of the Buddha (metre: Verses 1-6 Vasantatilakā , 7-10 Śārdūlavikrīḍita, 11 Mandākrāntā;) Translator’s Introduction     Actual Text with Translation   सत्त्वार्थमेव मयि तिष्ठति सत्त्वश्रद्धा न अन्यत्र साह्यहम् अहो ऽधिगृहीतसत्त्वः। चर्याधम करुणया रहिता भवेद् या संभाव्यते करुणयैव प्रहाणमस्याः॥      | १ |   sattvārtham eva mayi tiṣṭhati sattvaśraddhā nānyatra sā hyaham aho ’dhigṛhītasattvaḥ | caryādhamā karuṇayā rahitā bhaved yā saṃbhāvyate karuṇayaiva prahāṇam asyāḥ ||   Devotion to me is only in benefiting sentient beings. There is none other. Oh my companions, hold them high! - [Way of Bodhi – Wisdom, Compassion and Openness](https://www.wayofbodhi.org/): A place for exploring and learning meditation and the ways of wisdom-life with an open mind. Our mission is to revitalize the culture of wisdom and compassion in India by bringing back awareness of Buddhism in India. [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)