In this episode, I speak with Jin Choi from the University of Ghent, a specialist on early Buddhism and tea enthusiast, about the connections between tea and contemplative practice.

We discuss how the history of tea drinking became intertwined with the spread of Buddhism in China, how tea has been used as a stimulant for meditation, and the various praises of its benefits found in Buddhist texts. We also trace the transfer of tea ceremonies from China to Japan, and their eventual return to China in a different form.

A conversation about tea, meditation, and the material culture of Buddhist practice across East Asia.

Khyentse Center for Contemplative Traditions

ReCentGlobe

Material objects occupy a particular place in contemplative systems. In this episode, I speak with James Gentry about meditation-infused pills and their role in Tibetan Buddhist practice.

We discuss how these pills are made and distributed during rituals called drupchen, and what it means to unite mind and matter in this way. These practices were designed to be relevant for different kinds of people, from accomplished meditators to illiterate common folk, and we discuss the commentaries that describe their making and significance.

We also look at the importance of Avalokiteśvara practices in this context, particularly the manuals authored by Karma Chakmé in the seventeenth century.

A conversation about the material dimensions of meditation and how contemplative traditions have worked with the relationship between substances and spiritual practice.

Khyentse Center for Contemplative Traditions

ReCentGlobe

In Vajrayāna Buddhism, devotion is an integral part of practice. Yet it remains notably absent from secular mindfulness. Why is that so?

In this episode, I speak with Renée Ford from Ruhr Universität Bochum about the many layers and meanings of devotion in contemplative traditions. We discuss some of the lesser known aspects of this practice and consider why it has been largely set aside in contemporary approaches.

We also look at how devotional relationships can, in certain circumstances, invite abuse. Interestingly, ancient texts already address these difficulties, offering guidance on navigating such situations.

A conversation about devotion in Buddhist practice, its complexities, and the questions it raises for us today.

Khyentse Center for Contemplative Traditions

ReCentGlobe