What is possession in Buddhism?

What is possession in Buddhism?

Author: Nicholas Bright Haight October 27, 2023 Duration: 33:08

Bright on Buddhism Episode 73 - What is possession in Buddhism? What are the doctrinal origins and applications of possession in Buddhism? How ought we interpret and understand possession in Buddhism?

Resources: Samuel, Geoffrey (1995). Civilized Shamans: Buddhism in Tibetan Societies. Smithsonian Institution Press. p. 725. ISBN 1-56098-620-4.; Beyer, Stephan (1978). The cult of Tārā: Magic and ritual in Tibet. University of California Press. p. 542. ISBN 0-520-03635-2. ISBN 9780520036352.; Dorje, Gyurme (translator); Sangye Gyatso; Lochen Dharmasri (2001), White Beryl: Tibetan Elemental Divination Paintings, London: John Eskenazi, ISBN 0-9539941-0-4 {{citation}}: |first= has generic name (help); Gyatso, Geshe Kelsang (1997). Heart Jewel: The Essential Practices of Kadampa Buddhism (2 ed.). Tharpa Publications. ISBN 978-0-948006-56-2.; Kalsang, Ladrang (1996). The Guardian Deities of Tibet. Pema Thinley (trans.) (2 ed.). Dharamsala: Little Lhasa Publications.; Lopez, Donald S. (Jr.) (1998). Elaborations on Emptiness: Uses of the Heart Sutra. Princeton University Press. ISBN 0-691-00188-X. ISBN 9780691001883.; Nebesky-Wojkowitz, René de (1956). Oracles and demons of Tibet: the cult and iconography of the Tibetan protective deities. The Hauge: Mouton. ISBN 81-7303-039-1. ISBN 9788173030390 (reprints).; Nebesky-Wojkowitz, René de (1976). Christoph von Fürer-Haimendorf (ed.). Tibetan religious dances: Tibetan text and annotated translation of the ʼChams yig. The Hauge: Mouton. ISBN 90-279-7621-X. ISBN 9789027976215.; Havnevik, Hanna. A Tibetan Female State Oracle; Halkias, Georgios (October 2019). "Ascending to Heaven after Death: Karma Chags med's Commentary on Mind Transference" (PDF). Revue d'Études Tibétaines (52): 70–89.; Lingpa, Jigme (2008). Yeshe Lama. Translated by Lama Chonam and Sangye Khandro. Snow Lion Publications. ISBN 978-1611807318.; Yeshe, Lama Thubten (2011). "Chapter 6. Transference of Consciousness". Life, Death and After Death. Lama Yeshe Wisdom Archive. ISBN 978-1891868252. Retrieved 28 March 2021.; Yu, Lu K'uan (1991) [1969]. Secrets of Chinese Meditation: Self-Cultivation by Mind Control As Taught in the Ch'An, Mahayana and Taoist Schools in China. Weiser Books. ISBN 978-0877280668.

Do you have a question about Buddhism that you'd like us to discuss? Let us know by tweeting to us @BrightBuddhism, emailing us at Bright.On.Buddhism@gmail.com, or joining us on our discord server, Hidden Sangha https://discord.gg/tEwcVpu!

Credits:

Nick Bright: Script, Cover Art, Music, Voice of Hearer, Co-Host

Proven Paradox: Editing, mixing and mastering, social media, Voice of Hermit, Co-Host


Nicholas Bright Haight brings his academic background and personal curiosity to each episode of Bright On Buddhism. As a scholar of East Asian Buddhism currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Religion, with a specialization in pre-modern Japanese Buddhist architecture, Nick approaches these conversations with both depth and accessibility. The discussions unfold in a relaxed, question-and-answer style, making often complex philosophical and historical ideas feel approachable and immediately relevant. You’ll hear explorations that draw from his specific research areas, like Japanese Buddhist historical responses to cultural shifts, while also addressing the broader, timeless questions at the heart of the tradition. This isn’t a formal lecture series, but rather a thoughtful dialogue meant for anyone with an interest in how these ancient teachings intersect with modern life. The Bright On Buddhism podcast creates a space where scholarly insight meets casual conversation, demystifying topics without losing their profound essence. Whether you're well-versed in Buddhist thought or just beginning to explore spirituality and religion, these episodes offer a grounded and informative perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 252

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