Where next?

[Iskaral]

Now, as the topic description says, I'm interested in both taoist and buddhist practices. I have read Lao Tzu, and the inner chapters of Chuang Tzu (halfway through the outer chapters), and was wondering if anyone had advice on where to turn to next. Also I was wondering if anyone knew where I could get good 'instruction' (i.e. books/websites) that teaches beginners practices that I could learn on my own, I have looked into both tai chi and bagua but unfortunately price rules the option of personal instruction out.

 

As far as buddhism is concerned, due to the vast amount of literature I have no idea where to start on this subject, I have read about many of the basic ideas, (four noble truths, eightfold path etc) but starting on the sutras has this far eluded me, if anyone could give advice on where to start with that it would be much appreciated.

 

(Just as background, currently I'm doing 15 minutes of sitting meditation twice a day)

 

Thank you in advance and apologies, I'm sure these sorts of questions are asked frequently.

[mat black]

Hi Iskaral,

Lin Ai Wei has a school which involves both Buddhist and Daoist cultivation. His website is here

http://www.jingxinyuan.net/

Jing xin yuan also has a forum, which has articles and discussions on Buddhism and Daoism here http://www.createforum.com/dharmarealm/ind...rum=dharmarealm

 

If you are in Australia, Master Xianglintao teachers both Buddhist and Daoist cultivation, this is his website http://www.daoyintherapy.com.au/index.html

Best wishes.

Edited October 13, 2009 by mat black

[Iskaral]

Thank you, I'll have a look.

[nightwatchdog]

Try reading the Diamond Sutra and the Heart Sutra. The Diamond Sutra is about as long as the Tao te Ching, and is deep enough to require a lifetime of contemplation to really understand deeply. It's a beautiful text. I like Cleary's translation, but there are other good ones too.

 

The Heart Sutra is extremly short, but is often accompanied by reams of commentary. There is usually a copy in many Buddhist Primers from any Mahayana lineage.

 

A Google or an Amazon search will yield good information.

 

I second the recommendation to look up Lin Shirfu. He is sincere.

Edited October 13, 2009 by nightwatchdog

[Gerard]

Start here:

 

1. Buddhism (Satipatthana Vipassana practice):

 

http://www.mahamakuta.inet.co.th/english/b-way(7).html

 

2. Taoism

 

Any Qigong or IMA exercises will develop your chi and nourish your spirit as a result clearing and strengthening your internal organs. However, Vipassana also delivers that product working directly and exclusively with the mind.

 

My advice is not to mix Vipassana meditation with any other energetic exercises. It is very intense. I would leave it for retreat practice.

 

Good luck.

[mat black]

http://www.drba.org/dharma/guanyin.asp