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🏛️ The Hanging Church – A Suspended Chronicle of Faith & Time

Clinging to Babylon Fortress walls since the 3rd century, this architectural marvel weaves together:
• Roman foundations (4th century BC)
• Coptic devotion
• Islamic-inspired ivory inlays

Where dust of empires settles on ancient icons, and the Holy Family's footsteps echo. Not a monument – a living conversation across millennia.

#HangingChurch #CopticCairo #LivingHistory #SacredArchitecture #InterfaithDialogue

🌍【Event Highlights】
🔹HYI Alumni Workshop 2025｜Translation of the Sacred and Mystical Texts in Interfaith Dialogue🔹
📍The Chinese University of Hong Kong｜June 6–7, 2025

🔍 The workshop emphasized that “translation is not merely linguistic—it is a key practice for religious understanding and cross-cultural dialogue.”

We are deeply grateful to all participating scholars for their thought-provoking presentations and generous intellectual engagement. The conversations were rich, inspiring, and filled with moments of genuine exchange across disciplines, traditions, and worldviews. Their contributions will continue to resonate as we reflect on the roles of translation in cross-cultural and inter-religious understanding.

#HYIWorkshop #TranslationStudies #InterfaithDialogue #ReligiousTranslation #CUHK #SacredTexts #TranslationAndReligion #CrossCulturalUnderstanding #HarvardYenching #CUHK

BDG feature: The Buddhist Identity Crisis

#Buddhism #WesternBuddhism #Psychology #InterfaithDialogue #DigitalTech #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Commentary #Orientalism

BDG feature: Eighth Buddhist-Christian Colloquium Opens in Cambodia with Focus on Peace and Reconciliation

#Buddhism #Catholicism #SocialEngagement #Interfaith #InterfaithDialogue #Peace #Compassion #Cambodia #PhnomPenh #Vatican

BDG news: Pope Leo XIV Pledges Continued Commitment to Interreligious Dialogue

🔗 Read more: https://tinyurl.com/48kv2jmf

#Buddhism #catholicism #CatholicChurch #Vatican #Interfaith #PopeLeo #Compassion #InterfaithDialogue #OnlineDharma

Pope Francis Remembered as a Champion of Peace in South Sudan http://newsfeed.facilit8.network/TKMT1T #PopeFrancis #Peace #SouthSudan #Advocacy #InterfaithDialogue

ICYMI: Tinubu Mourns Pope Francis: A Bold Voice for Justice Lost https://www.rainsmediaradio.com/2025/04/tinubu-mourns-pope-francis-bold-voice.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=mastodon Follow, Like & Share #PopeFrancis #Tinubu #JusticeForAll #GlobalEquity #InterfaithDialogue

WhyIslam Dallas launches innovative Ramadan billboard campaign to promote interfaith understanding and educate community about Islamic spiritual practices. Join the conversation and learn more! #Ramadan #InterfaithDialogue #CommunityUnderstanding

Embracing Universal Ethics for a More Compassionate World

In a world often divided by religious and ideological lines, the Dalai Lama’s appeal for secular ethics and peace offers a refreshing perspective. He reminds us:

“For thousands of years, violence has been committed and justified in the name of religion. Religions have often been intolerant and still are in many cases. Religion is often abused or exploited – even by religious leaders – in order to further political or economic interests. For that reason, I say that in the twenty-first century, we need a new form of ethics beyond religion. I am speaking of a secular ethics that can be helpful and useful for over a billion atheists and an increasing number of agnostics. More integral than religion is our fundamental human spirituality. That is the affinity we humans have for love, benevolence, and affection – no matter what religion we belong to.”

A Call for Reflection and Unity

The Dalai Lama’s words resonate deeply, especially in times of division and conflict. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). This teaching aligns with the Dalai Lama’s vision of universal human values grounded in love, benevolence, and affection.

Transcending Boundaries

The message is clear: true spirituality transcends religious boundaries. It calls us to recognize our shared humanity and the fundamental values that unite us. This isn’t about diminishing the importance of our faith but about enriching it by embracing a broader, more inclusive perspective.

Building Bridges of Understanding

In embracing secular ethics, we are not abandoning our Christian principles but enhancing our capacity to connect with others, regardless of their beliefs. This approach can foster peace, understanding, and cooperation in a world that desperately needs it.

A Personal Reflection

Reflecting on these words, I find inspiration in the teachings of Jesus and the Dalai Lama alike. Both emphasize the power of love and compassion as guiding principles. As we navigate the complexities of the twenty-first century, let’s strive to embody these values in our daily lives, building bridges of understanding and unity.

Discussion Points:

How can we apply the Dalai Lama’s call for universal human values in our communities?
What steps can we take to ensure our faith promotes love and benevolence rather than division?
In what ways can we foster dialogue and understanding among different belief systems?
How can we practice and model these universal ethics in our daily interactions?

I invite you to share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below. How do you see these ideas impacting your life and community?

🙏🕊️🙏

https://richardsilverman108.wordpress.com/2024/08/13/an-appeal-for-universal-ethics-wisdom-from-the-dalai-lama/

#benevolence #buildingBridges #christianity #community #compassion #DalaiLama #ethicalLiving #humanUnity #InterfaithDialogue #JesusTeachings #love #Matthew2239 #peace #reflection #religiousTolerance #secularEthics #sharedHumanity #spirituality #understanding #universalValues

Exploring the Parallels Between Tibetan Dzogchen and the Teachings of Jesus

Namkhai Norbu’s “The Crystal and the Way of Light” serves as a profound introduction to the ancient teachings of Tibetan Buddhism, particularly Dzogchen. In this book, Norbu presents the essence of Dzogchen as a path that emphasizes the direct recognition of our true nature, transcending the complexities of conceptual thought and practices.

Dzogchen and the Teachings of Jesus: A Spiritual Parallel

What makes this book particularly compelling is how its core principles resonate with the teachings of Jesus. At the heart of Dzogchen lies the understanding of our innate purity and the inherent clarity of our minds. This is akin to Jesus’s teachings about the Kingdom of God being within us (Luke 17:21). Both traditions encourage a direct, experiential understanding of our true nature.

The Innate Purity of Mind

In Dzogchen, the mind is often likened to a crystal—naturally pure and clear, yet often obscured by the transient stains of thoughts and emotions. This parallels Jesus’s teachings on purity of heart: “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). Just as Dzogchen practitioners seek to recognize and rest in the natural state of their mind, Christians are called to seek purity of heart to experience the divine presence.

The Path of Immediate Recognition

Dzogchen emphasizes the immediate recognition of one’s true nature without the need for elaborate practices or rituals. This echoes Jesus’s message of simplicity and directness in spiritual practice. He taught, “When you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:6). Both paths advocate for an intimate, direct connection with the divine, free from external distractions.

Embracing Compassion and Love

Compassion is a cornerstone of both Dzogchen and Jesus’s teachings. Dzogchen encourages practitioners to cultivate bodhicitta, the compassionate wish to attain enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. Similarly, Jesus commanded, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). This universal call to compassion bridges both traditions, highlighting the importance of love and kindness in the journey toward spiritual awakening.

Emphasizing Respect and Clarity of Intent

This article aims to foster respect and understanding between different spiritual traditions. It is not intended to equate Dzogchen with Christian teachings or suggest blending the two into a single cohesive belief system. Instead, it highlights resonances and shared values that can promote mutual appreciation and dialogue. The intention is to encourage exploration and respect for spiritual wisdom across traditions, not to challenge or alter core Christian beliefs.

Interfaith Dialogue vs. Ecumenism

It is important to distinguish between interfaith dialogue and ecumenism. Interfaith dialogue seeks to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation among different religious traditions without attempting to merge them into one. It values each tradition’s unique perspective, fostering a spirit of learning and collaboration.

Ecumenism, on the other hand, focuses on promoting unity within the Christian faith, seeking to reconcile differences among various Christian denominations. While both interfaith dialogue and ecumenism aim to reduce conflict and promote peace, interfaith dialogue is about respecting and valuing the diversity of religious expressions.

Conclusion

Namkhai Norbu’s “The Crystal and the Way of Light” not only offers valuable insights into the practice and philosophy of Dzogchen but also provides a remarkable parallel to the teachings of Jesus. Both paths guide us toward a deeper understanding of our true nature, emphasizing purity, directness, and compassion. For those interested in exploring spiritual traditions that transcend cultural boundaries, this book is a compelling read that highlights the universal truths shared by Dzogchen and the teachings of Jesus.

I invite readers to approach this exploration with an open mind and heart, fostering a dialogue that respects and honors the rich diversity of spiritual paths. Your reflections and perspectives are welcomed as we seek to learn and grow together in a spirit of love and compassion.

🙏🕊️🙏

https://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Way-Light-Dzogchen-Philosophy-ebook/dp/B002BNKQ6W?crid=2BUEVR5GZV8VX&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.qi60zYgqzZ5vpQVtfGRxWjWWxXu5z0vfyiZREn_KIGu_A9OtEuA9aL0YMzDehVmKEQNmGpAUF6Jqpmegljw8vTAqnkZ5cXOzFAhDG3uFhq5FWvNEHSjiuRajgKqNWffFWGZ2xJuJlBjDK746VfqQWx31HI9cCF4Zc_87bmwgd5K_xQCAPWPHCrYD-RGaimC_6XbhfjtkzRPcCNG0TbsqIKa8XHQ8Exg8oAva_I1olbo.pI0itHZ3TiuQi_mB_QTVVIfLCAZrj2GzMFkr2sH89ps&dib_tag=se&keywords=namkhai+norbu&qid=1721322632&s=digital-text&sprefix=Namkai+no%2Cdigital-text%2C101&sr=1-2&linkCode=ll1&tag=globa0f5-20&linkId=3595abecd98fa09000d0e6f6c4e80b90&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

https://richardsilverman108.wordpress.com/2024/08/12/book-review-the-crystal-and-the-way-of-light-sutra-tantra-and-dzogchen-by-namkhai-norbu/

#000MindfulnessMeditationAndPersonalGrowth #bodhicitta #ChristianTeachings #comparativeReligion #compassion #directCommunion #Dzogchen #InterfaithDialogue #Jesus #KingdomOfGod #Luke1721 #Mark1231 #Matthew58 #NamkhaiNorbu #purityOfHeart #simplicityInPrayer #SpiritualAwakening #spirituality #TheCrystalAndTheWayOfLight #TibetanBuddhism

Fostering Compassionate Unity in Christian Practice

Introduction

I thank God that Tibetan Buddhism still survives. Tibetan Buddhists are some of the most sincere, authentic, and compassionate practitioners of spiritual principles. Their presence is a blessing to the world, offering a guiding light in times of darkness and uncertainty. By exploring their teachings, we can find ways to enhance our own spiritual practice, fostering interfaith dialogue and mutual understanding.

The Essence of Tibetan Buddhism

Tibetan Buddhism is rooted in principles that resonate with many Christian values: a pristine mind, loving-kindness, compassion, and wisdom. These principles emphasize the cultivation of a clear, peaceful mind, a heart full of love and kindness, a commitment to compassionate action, and the pursuit of deep wisdom. These ideals are not foreign to Christianity; rather, they complement the teachings of Jesus on love, mercy, and wisdom.

Easing Fears and Embracing Inclusion

It is important to clarify that exploring Tibetan Buddhist teachings does not mean abandoning Christian faith or compromising the belief that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Instead, it is about recognizing the wisdom in other traditions that can enhance our understanding and practice of Jesus’ teachings to love one another. Jesus himself reached out to those who were considered outsiders, demonstrating love and inclusion rather than fear of strangers.

Exploring Tibetan teachings through interfaith dialogue offers us an opportunity to deepen our understanding of universal spiritual principles such as love, compassion, and wisdom. Through interfaith dialogue we can draw inspiration from other cultures and traditions to enrich our spiritual practice and foster greater empathy and unity in our communities. This exploration is not about adopting foreign beliefs, but about seeking wisdom, practicing compassion and fostering a spiritual growth that resonates with core Christian values.

Practical Integration for Christians

Mindfulness and Prayer
Tibetan Buddhism emphasizes mindfulness—being present in each moment. This practice can significantly enhance our prayer life, making us more aware of God’s presence and deepening our relationship with Him.

Mindfulness in Prayer: Incorporate mindfulness into your prayer routine by beginning with a few moments of deep, focused breathing. Center yourself and become aware of God’s presence. As you pray, remain present with each word, offering your prayers with full attention and sincerity.
Meditative Reading of Scripture: Practice Lectio Divina, a meditative reading of the Bible. Read a passage slowly and reflect on its meaning. Pause to meditate on specific words or phrases, allowing them to resonate deeply within your heart.

Compassionate Action
Both traditions value compassion. Christians can draw inspiration from Tibetan practices of loving-kindness to enhance their own acts of charity and service, following Jesus’ command to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Loving-Kindness Meditation: Engage in loving-kindness meditation, also known as Metta. Begin by offering kindness to yourself, then extend these wishes of well-being and happiness to others, including family, friends, strangers, and even those with whom you have conflicts. This practice fosters a compassionate heart and encourages active love in daily life.
Serving Others: Inspired by the Bodhisattva vow to help all beings, commit to small acts of kindness and service. Volunteer at local charities, offer support to those in need, and engage in community service as a way to embody Christ’s love.

Wisdom and Discernment
The pursuit of wisdom is central in both traditions. Tibetan Buddhism encourages deep reflection and learning, which can enrich our understanding of Scripture and help us live more wisely.

Reflective Practices: Take time for regular self-reflection and meditation on biblical teachings. Use contemplative practices to seek God’s guidance in making wise decisions. Reflect on your actions and their alignment with Christian values.
Study and Dialogue: Engage in interfaith dialogue and study to broaden your perspective. Understanding different spiritual traditions can enhance your own faith and offer new insights into the pursuit of wisdom.

Peace and Reconciliation
Tibetan Buddhist practices of cultivating inner peace can support Christians in embodying the peace of Christ, promoting reconciliation and harmony in our relationships and communities.

Inner Peace Practices: Incorporate meditation practices that focus on achieving inner peace. Use techniques such as breath awareness or guided imagery to calm your mind and cultivate a sense of tranquility. This inner peace can help you approach conflicts with a calm and reconciliatory spirit.
Peacemaking Efforts: Actively engage in peacemaking within your community. Follow the teachings of Jesus by fostering forgiveness, understanding, and reconciliation. Seek to resolve conflicts with love and compassion, promoting harmony and unity.

Blessings to the World

Tibetan Buddhism’s contributions to global spirituality are immeasurable. The spread of its teachings has influenced various cultures, bringing a message of peace, compassion, and wisdom. By recognizing these contributions, Christians can appreciate the universal values that transcend specific religious boundaries and foster a more compassionate and wise world.

Conclusion

In a world often characterized by division and suffering, the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism offer a path of unity, healing, and enlightenment that complements the Christian call to love and serve others. By exploring and integrating these teachings into our lives, we open ourselves to profound transformation, contributing to a more compassionate and wise world while deepening our own faith.

Contemplative Reflections:

How can the principles of mindfulness and loving-kindness enhance your personal prayer and spiritual practice?
In what ways do you see the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism complementing and enriching your understanding of Christian values?
Reflect on a recent experience where practicing compassion or seeking inner peace has influenced your interactions with others.

Share Your Thoughts:

I invite you to share your reflections, experiences, or questions in the comments below. Let’s continue the conversation on fostering compassion and unity across spiritual traditions.

https://richardsilverman108.wordpress.com/2024/08/07/the-enduring-light-of-tibetan-buddhism-lessons-for-christian-practitioners/

#000MindfulnessMeditationAndPersonalGrowth #ChristianPractice #compassion #CompassionateLeadership #ethicalLiving #FaithIntegration #Inclusivity #InnerPeace #innerTransformation #InterfaithDialogue #JesusTeachings #lovingKindness #meditation #PeaceAndReconciliation #prayer #spiritualGrowth #spiritualWisdom #TibetanBuddhism #unity #wisdom