Akshobhya and the Eastern Pure Land
Meet Akshobhya through his vow against anger, the world of Abhirati, and a Nepalese sculpture that brings his Buddhist identity into view.
Buddhist figures
Understanding Buddhist figures, comprehending the wisdom of the Buddha
Upali the Householder and the Freedom to Reconsider
Read Upali's conversion in MN 56 alongside Buddhist teachings on investigation, generosity, confidence, and the meaning of religious commitment.
Sanghamitta: The Nun Who Brought the Bodhi Tree to Sri Lanka
Follow Sanghamitta in the Mahavamsa: women awaiting ordination, the Bodhi branch’s sea journey, and the founding of a community of Buddhist nuns.
Queen Mallika: Two Buddhist Dialogues Worth Reading
Queen Mallika answers a difficult personal question and helps a king examine a teaching about love. Read her reasoning in two early Buddhist accounts.
King Bimbisara and the Early Buddhist Community
Meet Bimbisara through his encounter with the Buddha, five fulfilled wishes, and the practical reasons for offering the Bamboo Grove to the Sangha.
Sujata and the Meal Before the Buddha's Awakening
Read Sujata's milk-rice offering in the old Buddhist birth narrative, including her vow, Punna's visit, the golden bowl, and the turn from severe austerity.
Who Is Vairocana? Reading the Cosmic Buddha’s Images
Meet Vairocana through two museum sculptures, Shingon teachings on Dainichi Nyorai, and the opening dialogue of the Mahavairocana Sutra.
Who Is Mara in Buddhist Texts?
Meet Mara in the Buddha's awakening story, Soma's reply, and a discourse about rest, then explore the wider Buddhist teaching of four maras.