Blue Mountain Dharma Community

There is no fee for joining our Silent Sittings, however if you’ve been inspired or felt spiritually nourished by the offerings of BMDC and feel moved to donate, we appreciate your financial support in any amount. While some people have suggested that we should charge a monthly fee for our offerings and events as some groups do, we don’t want to see anyone excluded. We would rather receive support from those with the means and motivation to offer it freely, while allowing those without the means, to enjoy and benefit from our offerings as well. If you’ve been inspired or felt spiritually nourished by our offerings and feel moved to donate, we appreciate your financial support in any amount. You can donate here via Paypal now.

In Buddhism, morality , concentration , and wisdom are known as the three pillars of spiritual development, collectively known as the Threefold Training. Each aspect plays a crucial role in the path towards liberation and enlightenment, offering profound philosophical insights into the nature of existence and the human condition: Morality (Sila): Morality forms the foundation of the spiritual path in Buddhism, emphasizing ethical conduct and virtuous behavior. From a philosophical perspective, morality is rooted in the understanding of cause and effect, known as karma. By adhering to ethical principles such as refraining from harming living beings, avoiding stealing, speaking truthfully, abstaining from sexual misconduct, and abstaining from intoxicants, individuals cultivate wholesome intentions and actions. Morality is not merely a set of rules to follow but a reflection of one’s understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings and the consequences of one’s actions. It serves ...

Anapanasati, often translated as “mindfulness of breathing,” is a foundational meditation practice in Buddhism that focuses on cultivating awareness and concentration through the observation of the breath. From a philosophical perspective, Anapanasati embodies profound insights into the nature of mind, consciousness, and the impermanent nature of reality. Attention and Awareness: Anapanasati begins with directing attention to the natural rhythm of the breath. Practitioners observe the inhalation and exhalation with sustained awareness, anchoring the mind in the present moment. This cultivation of mindfulness enables individuals to develop a heightened sense of awareness and clarity, allowing them to observe thoughts, emotions, and sensations as they arise without becoming entangled in them. Philosophically, this practice highlights the importance of present-moment awareness in understanding the transient nature of experience and the impermanent nature of reality. Concentration and Cal...