Category: Library

I have met so many westerners who are interested in Buddhist philosophy in my Mahagandhayon monastery for over 18 years as I was appointed to be in charge of foreigners who want to learn Buddhist philosophy and meditation. I have also guided some foreigners who want to learn Buddhist philosophy and meditation. I have also guided some foreigners who want to practice mediation in my monastery so far.

Then, I think you will be interested in the book, ‘Buddhism and Democracy’ I wrote. The reason why I wrote this book is that I found Buddhism is like democracy in the way it instructed. I have said a number of times that Buddhism is not like a religion that guides people how to believe in a certain God but Buddhism is more like philosophy that guides how to understand real life and how to live in real world. It is also a kind of lesson to learn how to apply in daily life. It can also go with democratic system harmoniously and peacefully. This is the reason why I wrote this book.

Why does Buddhism come with democracy? I strongly believe that Buddhism embraces democratic values and scientific philosophy after I have studied and practiced for many years. Buddhism is even like a sort of medicine that can kill stresses and strains of public life. This is the reason why I love Buddhism so much and practice it as good as possible. I also try to share my understanding and knowledge on Buddhism with people. I even try to share rich Buddhist philosophy with world by writing books, including this one ‘Buddhism and Democracy’.

2014 is, for me, a year of special experience because I was invited by Ricardo and Carlos who has worked with Sadhana Yoga in Italy and Spain.

When they came to Burma in 2013, they visited my monastery, Mahagandhayon in which I have studied and been taught and taught for more than two decades. They did Vipassana mediation just for a few days in my room. However, they loved it so much. This is the reason why they wanted to invite me and how my trip to the west began.

Actually, Buddhism is directly linked to those who believe in it but Dhamma is quite universal and linked to the entire living structure. Therefore, I have very often said that though Dhamma is included in Buddhism, Dhamma should not be restricted within the frame of Buddhism because Dhamma is acceptable, practicable, experiential and understandable to all walks of life. When practiced, it will make everyone equally happy and beneficial. Dhamma has no bias towards anything and anyone.