Why do we sometimes find ourselves facing the same difficulties again and again? Can we change patterns that seem deeply rooted in our lives? And how can challenging circumstances become an opportunity for growth and greater happiness? These are some of the questions explored in Nichiren Daishonin’s Buddhism, a Mahayana Buddhist tradition based on the Lotus Sutra and the writings of Nichiren Daishonin.
Join us for an informal gathering open to UoS staff and students to explore the Buddhist concept of karma and what it means for our ability to transform our lives. Rather than seeing karma as a fixed destiny, Nichiren Buddhism teaches that we have the power to change the direction of our lives through our own efforts and inner transformation.
This dialogue will explore the idea of transforming karma - the process through which we can confront difficult tendencies and circumstances, develop our life condition, and create a new direction for our lives. We will consider how Buddhist practice can help us respond differently to challenges and reveal greater wisdom, courage and compassion.
The meeting will start with a short demonstration of the chanting of the Buddhist mantra Nam-Myoho-Renge-Kyo by Buddhist community members. Then, through open discussion and reflection, we will consider how the Buddhist view of karma can empower us to take responsibility for our lives without being defined by our past, and how our struggles can become causes for positive change.
The meeting will be held by Dr Roberta Discetti, lecturer in Sustainability at UoS, Buddhist practitioner, and member of the Soka Gakkai International, a Buddhist global organisation based on the principles of human dignity, peace, and sustainable development.
Please note this meeting is in-person only. No previous experience or knowledge of Buddhism is necessary.
You can find more information on Nichiren Buddhism on the SGI-UK website.