Buddhism’s Important Figures

Monks and Nuns Men and women devoted to living simply, carrying on Buddhist teachings, and helping lay people live out the teachings http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/buddhistworld/ordination1.htm (ordination ceremony procedure)

Teachers Today Thich Nhat Hanh Originally from Vietnam Zen Buddhist monk (focus is on meditation to reach enlightenment…not following rules) Teacher, Writer, poet, peace activist Has teaching/meditation centers all over the world ~ "Life is available only in the present. That is why we should walk in such a way that every step can bring us to the here and the now." ~

Dalai Lama “Dalai Lama” is title…like “the Pope” Means: Ocean of Wisdom Head monk of Tibet (used to rule before China took over) There have only been 14 Today’s Dalai Lama is believed to be a reincarnation of a previous Dalai Lama who stayed in the cycle of rebirth to continue teaching (Tenzin Gyatso)

Around 1950, the Chinese took control of Tibet and crushed any Tibetan rebellions The Dalai Lama, in fear of his life, fled to India (with other refugees) They were welcomed and created a society focused on traditional Tibetan culture “He is the first Dalai Lama to travel to the West, and his charismatic manner has helped to draw much support for Buddhism and the Tibetan resistance movement. In 1989 he received the Nobel Peace Prize for maintaining a policy of non violence with the Chinese government, despite the knowledge that many Tibetans would be happy to take up armed resistance to return him to his position as their leader.” From BBC Religions

“This is my simple religion “This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXdhHn8L65o Finding Purpose in Life