Mindfulness Meditation · Compassion
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Compassion. The guided meditation begins at 14:45.
Five-prong Bell & Dorje Set; Probably Urga or Dolonor, Mongolia; ca. late 19th century; Silver, metal (Li, five-metal compound); Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art, Gift of Phillip J. Rudko; C2014.7.4a-b
In Tantric Buddhism, the vajra is a symbol of the indestructible nature of the ultimate truth. It is considered synonymous with emptiness (sunyata), which is indestructible. The vajra is said to be superior to all things, as it is capable of destroying anything with which it comes into contact, yet it remains unaffected, much like a diamond. The bell has many important meanings in Buddhism. It is often used as a call to prayer, as a bell can be heard even at great distances. The ring of the bell can represent the heavenly enlightened voice of the Buddha teaching the dharma, and it can also be used as a call for protection and as a way to ward off evil spirits.
Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She was among the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 50 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is cofounder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, MA, and the author of 14 books, including the New York Times bestseller Real Happiness, now in its second edition, and her seminal work, Lovingkindness. Sharon’s podcast, The Metta Hour, has amassed eight million downloads and features interviews with thought leaders from the mindfulness movement and beyond.
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