Mindfulness Meditation · Seeking Refuge
This week’s meditation session is led by Sharon Salzberg and the theme is Seeking Refuge. The guided meditation begins at 14:20.
Buddha Shakyamuni; Tibet; 15th century; Copper alloy with pigments; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2001.13.3
This sculpture depicts Buddha Shakyamuni performing the earth-witness pose. Prior to his enlightenment, Siddhartha was challenged by Mara, the personification of doubt, who asked, “Who will witness your enlightenment?” Siddhartha touched the ground, saying the earth would be his witness. It’s at that moment that Siddhartha became a buddha, an awakened one. Buddhist practitioners take refuge in the Buddha, the dharma (his teachings), and the sangha (Buddhist community). Ultimately, practitioners must become a refuge for themselves and others as they participate in the community, embody the teachings, and finally become enlightened themselves.
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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