Buddhist Monks in Thailand

Here in Thailand it’s a tradition for men to ordain as monks for 3 months before getting married, however some are busy with their careers and only ordain for a week or two.

Buddhist Culture

Most peoples round southeast Asia have a lot of respect for their parents and elderly which is something that is dying out in Western culture.

In addition, Thai people really respect Buddhist monks because they lead simple lives and practice the Buddha’s teachings. Another reason the monks are so revered is because their meditation practice can lead to enlightenment which is considered the highest achievement of all.

Karma

Buddhists believe in the concept of karma, which in short means that every good action will reap good fruit sometime in the future while every bad action will reap bad fruit.

So, one of the most beautiful things you can do in Buddhist culture is to sponsor a monk which means offering him a robe, alms bowl and other necessities – this is usually done by the parents. The good karma of such a sponsorship is believed to be immense.

Men become monks for various reasons, however only a minority of the monks in Thailand have a genuine interest in the Buddha’s teachings. Most of them ordain to honor their parents.

Buddhist Monasticism

The monks set out on alms round just after sunrise. This is not viewed as begging in Buddhist countries but rather as a opportunity for the community to offer food to the honorable monks.

Offering foods to the monks is believed to make for very good karma.

The monks generally chant Buddhist scriptures 3-4 times a day, spend time studying and meditating.

Life in a monastery is really monotonous with the same schedule and foods almost everyday. A few times a month they may chant at funerals and other religious ceremonies.

When I was a junior monk in Thailand, we swept leaves in the temple grounds every afternoon which is a meditation in itself. If you’re interested in meditation, monasteries offer plenty of inspiration and support.

All the best!

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Buddhist tours in India

The great Indian dynasties- Maurya, Sunga, Kushana,Gupta, Pala and Sena contributed a lot in propagation of this religion. Besides just being mystic monuments, the art and sculptures depicting the Buddhist religion, principles, teachings and culture are a visual delight
Buddhist artifacts by Mauryas
The great Emperor Ashoka was one of the great proponents of Buddhism. The teachings and principles of Buddhism turned him into a peace- loving King. The three Buddhist stupas erected under the kingship of Emperor Ashoka located at Sanchi, Bharhut and Amrarawati played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism at that time. Buddhist tours in India also provide a chance to visit this stone art portraying animals and other important entities. The principles inscribed on these stupas are in Pali, Aramaic and other languages.
Buddhist artifacts by Sanghas
The Brahmin dynasty followed by Brahmical traditions also contributed a large to the Buddhist culture. The well famed Buddhist monasteries in India, the Bharhut and Amarawati and Great stupas of Sanchi all were built during this time. The gateways and railings beautifully decorated with the stone art are well famed among the tourists and an important part of Buddhist tours in India.
Buddhist artifacts during Andhra period
The stupa created during this period was enclosed with two panels of Goddess Lakshmi.

The Buddhism was denoted by a Saal tree and an empty throne with a wheel known as dhammachakkapravartina.
Ajanta Caves
The UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘Ajanta Caves’ renowned for its lively frescos portraying Buddhism is a vital part of Buddhist tours in India. These caves are more a tourist spot than a pilgrimage. The famous Ajanta Caves drag thousands of tourists from across the world for the architectural magnificence.
In short, Buddhism along has given this land marvelous architectural monuments and cultural heritages. A Buddhist tour in India to Bodhgaya and Sarnath when complemented by the above mentioned destinations especially Ajanta Caves give a glimpse of the architectural skills of Buddhists. Make a Buddhist tour to India and explore the vibrant sculptures of depicting Buddhism.

Ritika Joshi is a budding journalist presently working with a travel portal. Graduated in Mass Communication she deals with the travel and tourism related topics.She has written several articles related to travel & tourism like Tajmahal tours Kerla Tour and Golden Traingle India

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Buddhist Tours In India

The great Indian dynasties- Maurya, Sunga, Kushana,Gupta, Pala and Sena contributed a lot in propagation of this religion. Besides just being mystic monuments, the art and sculptures depicting the Buddhist religion, principles, teachings and culture are a visual delight

Buddhist artifacts by Mauryas

The great Emperor Ashoka was one of the great proponents of Buddhism. The teachings and principles of Buddhism turned him into a peace- loving King. The three Buddhist stupas erected under the kingship of Emperor Ashoka located at Sanchi, Bharhut and Amrarawati played a significant role in the spread of Buddhism at that time. Buddhist tours in India also provide a chance to visit this stone art portraying animals and other important entities. The principles inscribed on these stupas are in Pali, Aramaic and other languages.

Buddhist artifacts by Sanghas

The Brahmin dynasty followed by Brahmical traditions also contributed a large to the Buddhist culture. The well famed Buddhist monasteries in India, the Bharhut and Amarawati and Great stupas of Sanchi all were built during this time. The gateways and railings beautifully decorated with the stone art are well famed among the tourists and an important part of Buddhist tours in India.

Buddhist artifacts during Andhra period

The stupa created during this period was enclosed with two panels of Goddess Lakshmi. The Buddhism was denoted by a Saal tree and an empty throne with a wheel known as dhammachakkapravartina.

Ajanta Caves

The UNESCO World Heritage Site Ajanta Caves renowned for its lively frescos portraying Buddhism is a vital part of Buddhist tours in India. These caves are more a tourist spot than a pilgrimage. The famous Ajanta Caves drag thousands of tourists from across the world for the architectural magnificence.

In short, Buddhism along has given this land marvelous architectural monuments and cultural heritages. A Buddhist tour in India to Bodhgaya and Sarnath when complemented by the above mentioned destinations especially Ajanta Caves give a glimpse of the architectural skills of Buddhists. Make a Buddhist tour to India and explore the vibrant sculptures of depicting Buddhism.

Ritika Joshi is a budding journalist presently working with a travel portal. Graduated in Mass Communication she deals with the travel and tourism related topics.She has written several articles related to travel & tourism like Tajmahal tours
Kerla Tour and Golden Traingle India

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Gateway to Buddhist Destinations : buddhist meditation

India, the land of ritual, custom and tradition is the premier hub of Buddhism. Buddhism here occupies a pre dominant position. Buddhist destinations are systematically scattered almost all the regions of this divine locale.
Doorways to Buddhist Destinations:
Ajanta & Ellora Caves
Buddhist Tours to India is incomplete without a visit to the Ajanta & Ellora caves. These caves are the most visited Buddhist destination in India and most alluring for any tourists. This place is situated near Aurangabad in the state of Maharashtra. These remarkable Ajanta & Ellora caves are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and not be missed on your India Buddhist Tours.
Bodhgaya
Bodhgaya 13 km from Gaya in Bihar is one of the famous Buddhist Destinations in India. It is here where; Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment meditating under a Bodhi tree after years of search for the truth and knowledge. On Bodhgaya tours you can visit the Mahabodhi Temple, Mahabodhi Tree, Bodhagaya Archaeological Museum etc. The Mahahbodhi Temple is listed in the World Heritage Site.
Sarnath
This place is one of the four holy sites of Buddhist pilgrimages. This has lot of importance because Buddha came to this place after he attained enlightenment in Bodhgaya. On Buddhist Tours to Sarnath, you can visit the Chaukhandi Stupa, Dhamek Stupa, Mulgandha Kuti Vihar and Sarnath Museum.
Lumbini
Lumbini, the birth place of Buddha is an important Buddhist Destination.

Listed in World heritage sites, this place is visited by large number of devotees to learn about the Buddhist philosophy. On a tour to Lumbini, you can visit Sacred Garden, Maya Devi Temple, Puskani Pond, Ashokan Pillar, Nepal Buddha Temple and Lumbini Museum.
Kushinagar
Kushinagar earlier known by the name of Kushawati, is one of the holy places of Buddhism. It is here that Lord Buddha attained the stage of Mahaparinirvana or Nirvana. The places of significance on Kushinagar Tours are Mahaparinirvana Temple, Nirvana Chaitya, Ramabhar Stupa, Matha Kuar Shrine, Meditation Park, Indo-Japan-Sri Lanka Temple, Wai Thai Temple and a Museum.
Dharamsala
Known as the Scotland of India is a peaceful town situated in the Kangra Valley in Himachal Pradesh is an important Buddhist Destination known for its art, architecture and culture. The main Buddhist attractions here are Mcleodganj, Dharamkot, Triund, Namgyal Monastery and lots more.

Ritika Joshi is a budding journalist presently working with a travel portal. Graduated in Mass Communication she deals with the travel and tourism related topics.Especially you can visit Bodhgaya

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Buddhist Pilgrimage Tour : buddhist meditation

Referred as “Little Tibet”, Ladakh is dotted with numerous monasteries, where Buddhist monks and nun live. They play an important role in propagating and practicing Buddhism and Monasteries are the main centre for prayers. The monasteries are located in scenic locations, surrounded by picturesque hills. Admire the stunning architecture and have look on art collections.

Popular Pilgrimage Centres in Ladakh
Stok Palace
Stol Palace is located 15 km towards the south of Leh town. The beautiful sacred shrine was founded in 14th century by Lama Lhawang Lotus. Monks belonging to yellow hat sect are the resident of Stok Palace. The verandah are beautifully ornamented, depicting the Guardians of the four directions. The monastery houses a rich collection of Buddhist artifacts and Thankas.

Hemis Monastery
The Hemis monastery is the largest monastery of Ladakh, situated 45 km to the south of Leh. The monastery holds pride in housing the largest Thangka painting in Ladakh. It was built in 1630 and is resident to monks of Brokpa sect. The walls of the monastery are decorated with exquisite paintings.

Namgyal Tsemo Gompa
The ancient Gompa was built in the year 1430. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa treasures a three-storey high image of Lord Buddha and a fine collection of Buddhist manuscripts and art antiques. After seeking the blessings of Lord Buddha, visit an architectural wonder, a ruined fort from where you have a panoramic views of Leh.

Sankar Gompa
The amazing holy Buddhist shrine is located 2 km north of the city centre. Sankar Gompa houses a huge statue of Avalokiteshvara (The Buddhist deity of compassion). The image of deity is very impressive, depicting with 1,000 arms and 1,000 heads.

Shanti Stupa
One of the most impressive religious centre in Ladakh is Shanti Stupa. It is a white-domed structure built by a Japanese organization to commemorate 2500 years of Buddhism. The sole aim of the organization was to promote world peace and harmony. Visiting Stupa at night is more exciting as it gets illuminated with colorful lights, which makes the holy shrine more beautiful and appealing. Enjoy breath-taking view of sunset and sunrise from the Shanti Stupa.

For more information visit Ladakh Tourism

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Tibetan Buddhist Tingshas : buddhist meditation

Tibetan Buddhist Tingshas  : buddhist meditation

Tingshas are produced from many areas of southern Asia, including Nepal and India. Most are crafted, of course, by Tibetan refugees. Each cymbal is one of a kind, and tuned by hand to specific musical notes. The two cymbals are purposefully tuned to a slightly different pitch, in order to produce a poignant and evocative ring that will embellish the practice for which it is used. There are hundreds of different kinds or styles of meditation. The important thing is to pick one and stick with it. Meditation is not a difficult process, it is simply quieting the mind by focusing on an object, sound or word. Gradually the thoughts will diminish and you will come to a state of complete inner silence.

By doing this sort of meditating throughout your day while you walk or do various tasks, you will have added a meditation practice to your life with ease. Meditation does not have to be about sitting down and being silent for hours at a time and for many, mistakenly trying to reach a goal of some sort. The most beautiful thing about the outcome is that all needed solutions and ideas will come on their own, some straight away, some later. What you are gaining above everything else is your connection with the Universe and Its promise to serve you; all you have to do is to surrender to Its power, calm your hectic mind and start trusting which is only natural to achieve in meditating state.

As a mother and yoga teacher, I come into contact with people from all faiths, religions and cultural social groups. I am learning to accept people where they are and to allow them to express their faith and religious practices in peace. However, I notice that when the topic of meditation comes up, many of my friends who are Christians, shy away from this topic and claim they do not meditate as they believe it is wrong and against their religion. As a mother and yoga teacher, I come into contact with people from all faiths, religions and cultural social groups.

I am learning to accept people where they are and to allow them to express their faith and religious practices in peace. However, I notice that when the topic of meditation comes up, many of my friends who are Christians, shy away from this topic and claim they do not meditate as they believe it is wrong and against their religion. Simply stop seeking. Go somewhere quiet, turn off the phone, close your browser window and be still. The best way to start is to simply concentrate on your breathe….the simple, subtle and sweet swell of breathe coming in and out of your body.

Sit in a comfortable position with the spine straight, but not rigid. You can sit on a chair, your bed or the floor. The important thing is to sit in a upright posture that you will be able to maintain for a period of about 20 minutes. You never want to lay down as it will be to easy to fall asleep. Once you are in a comfortable position, resist the urge to move around, scratch itches and the like. This will take a little practice and become very natural in time.

https://secrets2meditation.com/goto/?url=http://www.tergar.org ~ In this short guided meditation, Tibetan Buddhist meditation master Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche gives simple instructions for bringing aw…
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Buddhist Jewelry As Reminders To Buddhist Insight : buddhist meditation

One of the secrets to a content and happy life is, according to Buddhism, perfect balancethe point wherein one becomes awakened or enlightened to the truths of the universe and the interconnectedness of the world. This balance is said to come from having a peaceful and calm mind and soul, both of which can be achieved through a moral life, prayer, meditation and detachment. It is these ideals that Buddhist jewelry seek to remind believer and followers everyday.

The Buddha and The Middle Way
The Buddha realized the tenets and beliefs of Buddhism around 490BC. Born Siddhartha Gautama to royalty, Buddha lived an extravagant, young life. That is, until he chanced upon the suffering and sickness of the world outside the sheltered life he led. This prodded him to forego his riches and his extravagance to follow an ascetic life. Soon, he realized that to be free from suffering, one must pursue what is known as the Middle Waythe perfect balance between poverty and luxury and between negative and positive poles.
The Middle Way also means a lot of other thingsit signifies not being perturbed or affected by extreme anger or extreme joy. It also means looking at everything from all sides and not being biased when making judgments. The Middle Way, in a sense, is also taught as being detached from worldly views and ways, such as money, material things, negative thoughts, excess and power. It does not, however, mean being detached from humanity. If anything else, Buddhism teaches everyone to love one another, the universe and nature, and to live compassionate and benevolent lives.
Buddhist Jewelry and Awakening
Because of the word “detachment” being used often in Buddhist teachings, some people might think that there is a conflict between The Middle Way and the wearing of Buddhist jewelry. One might ask himself: “How can I be following The Buddha by wearing something with material value?”
Buddhist jewelry, it must be understood, should not be seen as just “valuable jewelry” or just a ring, a bracelet or a pendant. One should see Buddhist jewelry as staunch reminders of the teachings and ideals of Buddhism and The Middle Way. You don’t wear Buddhist jewelry just to enhance your outfit or to show off your new ring. These special pieces of jewelry should be worn to keep the teachings of harmony, balance, enlightenment and detachment close to one’s heart and soul. A lotus ring, for instance, can remind you of how the lotus flower signifies unfolding, awakening and, at the same time, being rooted to the ground.
Another fine example of Buddhist jewelry filled with meaning is the Dharma pendant, an intricately carved pendant that features the Sacred Fig Leaf and the Dharma Wheel, which symbolize the path, or The Middle Way, to awakening and freedom from suffering.
Buddhist jewelry can also come in the form of rings. In the same way wedding rings are used to remind couples of their sacred vows of loyalty and love, Buddhist jewelry rings remind wearers to be loyal to the teachings of Buddhism. The Happiness Ring, for instance, is engraved with the words “This will also change” in Hebrew. It reminds the wearer of the fleetingness of life and how the only permanent thing in the world is change.
Through following The Middle Way and the teachings of The Buddha, and with the help of Buddhist Jewelry like the Dharma pendant and Happiness Ring, we can all find our way to happiness, peace, love and perfect balance.

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Buddhist Jewelry as Reminders to Buddhist Insight : buddhist meditation

Buddhist Jewelry as Reminders to Buddhist Insight  : buddhist meditation

One of the secrets to a content and happy life is, according to Buddhism, perfect balance—the point wherein one becomes awakened or enlightened to the truths of the universe and the interconnectedness of the world. This balance is said to come from having a peaceful and calm mind and soul, both of which can be achieved through a moral life, prayer, meditation and detachment. It is these ideals that Buddhist jewelry seek to remind believer and followers everyday.

The Buddha and The Middle Way

The Buddha realized the tenets and beliefs of Buddhism around 490BC. Born Siddhartha Gautama to royalty, Buddha lived an extravagant, young life. That is, until he chanced upon the suffering and sickness of the world outside the sheltered life he led. This prodded him to forego his riches and his extravagance to follow an ascetic life. Soon, he realized that to be free from suffering, one must pursue what is known as the Middle Way—the perfect balance between poverty and luxury and between negative and positive poles.

The Middle Way also means a lot of other things—it signifies not being perturbed or affected by extreme anger or extreme joy. It also means looking at everything from all sides and not being biased when making judgments. The Middle Way, in a sense, is also taught as being detached from worldly views and ways, such as money, material things, negative thoughts, excess and power. It does not, however, mean being detached from humanity. If anything else, Buddhism teaches everyone to love one another, the universe and nature, and to live compassionate and benevolent lives.

Buddhist Jewelry and Awakening

Because of the word “detachment” being used often in Buddhist teachings, some people might think that there is a conflict between The Middle Way and the wearing of Buddhist jewelry.

One might ask himself: “How can I be following The Buddha by wearing something with material value?”

Buddhist jewelry, it must be understood, should not be seen as just “valuable jewelry” or just a ring, a bracelet or a pendant. One should see Buddhist jewelry as staunch reminders of the teachings and ideals of Buddhism and The Middle Way. You don’t wear Buddhist jewelry just to enhance your outfit or to show off your new ring. These special pieces of jewelry should be worn to keep the teachings of harmony, balance, enlightenment and detachment close to one’s heart and soul. A lotus ring, for instance, can remind you of how the lotus flower signifies unfolding, awakening and, at the same time, being rooted to the ground.

Another fine example of Buddhist jewelry filled with meaning is the Dharma pendant, an intricately carved pendant that features the Sacred Fig Leaf and the Dharma Wheel, which symbolize the path, or The Middle Way, to awakening and freedom from suffering.

Buddhist jewelry can also come in the form of rings. In the same way wedding rings are used to remind couples of their sacred vows of loyalty and love, Buddhist jewelry rings remind wearers to be loyal to the teachings of Buddhism. The Happiness Ring, for instance, is engraved with the words “This will also change” in Hebrew. It reminds the wearer of the fleetingness of life and how the only permanent thing in the world is change.

Through following The Middle Way and the teachings of The Buddha, and with the help of Buddhist Jewelry like the Dharma pendant and Happiness Ring, we can all find our way to happiness, peace, love and perfect balance.

https://secrets2meditation.com/goto/?url=http://www.facebook.com/NATUREPICTURESRELAXATIONMUSIC Music with beautiful images (Winter) of the nature HD (Photos taken by me, Images Of my Travels) ✿⊱╮ Mu…
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