A Journey into Buddhism

Summary

This is an audiobook of Bodhi Leaves No. 134 by Elizabeth J. A. Harris, A Journey into Buddhism narrated by Ethan Christy.

Excerpt:

"The themes of the talks are rooted in my journey, as a Christian, into Buddhism. In the mid-1980s I felt the need to ’let go’ of my own religious conditioning to enter the world of another faith. It grew from a conviction that people with an interest in religion should not remain imprisoned within one framework but should explore others. The choice of Buddhism and Sri Lanka was a natural one for me. Buddhism’s emphasis on meditation and non-violence touched my own interests as a Christian, and a visit to Sri Lanka in 1984 had left me with the feeling that my link with the island was not finished.

I originally intended to be in Sri Lanka for one year. One year, however, became seven and a half, from 1986 until 1993. My aim throughout was not only to study Buddhism but to practise it. I did not consider myself involved in ’interfaith dialogue’ although I’m sure some perceived my actions in this way. I wanted to enter Buddhism on its own terms, as a human being rather than as a Christian."

The print edition can be found in the Pariyatti Edition of Collected Bodhi Leaves Vol. V. The eBook of Bodhi Leaves No. 134 can be downloaded from the BPS website.