Lion's Roar

Confessions of a Marxist Buddhist

“ I ’ M A MARXIST, ” I blurted out in front of a group of Buddhists.

We were gathered one Monday evening in New York for the Buddhist Action Coalition’s monthly meeting. I don’t remember the specific context. It may have been a discussion on finding a sustainable direction in our work, or maybe a deliberation on a dharma–political theory study group.

After the meeting, one of the Buddhist teachers in attendance came up to me and said, “That was the best part of the meeting.” We both chuckled. He and I have had spontaneous dialogues on socioeconomic theories, Marxism in particular, but those had been one-on-one conversations.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from Lion's Roar

Lion's Roar8 min read
Honoring the Form
FOR DECADES pilgrims from around the world have flocked to Lake View Cemetery on Capitol Hill in Seattle. Tens of thousands arrive every year to pay their respects to Bruce Lee, an international celebrity from Hong Kong, whom Time magazine listed as
Lion's Roar2 min read
Generosity
The path of wisdom and compassion begins with the discovery of our basic goodness. Basic goodness is not just a theory or idea to believe in; it is a direct experience of warmth and clarity. This spiritual realization has many practical implications
Lion's Roar8 min read
True Liberation Black & Buddhist in America
PAMELA AYO YETUNDE: How do you understand the particularities of Black people’s suffering in the United States? JEAN MARIE ROBBINS: I understand them as an intentional device to maintain an enslavement mentality, in order for the people on top and in

Related