Tashi and the Monk: How Lobsang Phuntsok Created a Safe Haven for Unwanted Children

  “We survive and thrive only in an environment of concern, affection, and warmheartedness — or in a single word, compassion,” wrote the Dalai Lama in reflecting on how to live a more purposeful and meaningful life. “The essence of compassion is a desire to alleviate the suffering of others and to promote their well-being. … Read more

How Do Buddhist Monks Resist Sexual Temptation?

How Do Buddhist Monks Resist Sexual Temptation?

How do Buddhist monks resist sexual temptation? A while ago, I wrote about how Buddhist monks handle insults, inspired by instructions in Manual of Insight by Mahasi Sayadaw (July 29, 1904–August 14, 1982). The same manual has information about how Buddhist monks resist sexual temptation. There are four kinds of morality for Buddhist monks: observing … Read more

A Zen Story About a Cold-Hearted Monk

  Have you read a Zen story about a cold-hearted monk? Writing about how Buddhist monks resist sexual temptation reminded me of a beautiful story from 101 Zen Koans. It’s titled “No Loving-Kindness,” a reference to a meditation technique that you can try right now by reading our in-depth article. Returning to the story, listen … Read more