Learn Buddhism with Alan Peto

94 - Engaged Buddhism

"Engaged Buddhism" is Buddhism lived in the world through compassion in action, wisdom applied to real life, and mindfulness extended beyond the meditation cushion! In t

93 - Buddhism in 10 Steps (Audiobook Special Edition)

This episode is the full audiobook reading of my book Buddhism in 10 Steps. Many of you have already listened to the shorter podcast/video version, which offered a quick

92 - Buddhist Symbols & Symbolism

In this episode, we explore the beautiful world of Buddhist symbols — the dragons, lotus flowers, prayer flags, mandalas, guardian lions, and more that fill temples and a

91 - Was the Buddha Always a Buddha? (The Lotus Sutra's Chapter 16)

In this episode, we explore one of the most surprising teachings in the Lotus Sūtra: the idea that the Buddha didn’t become a Buddha under the Bodhi tree, but awakened co

90 - Science & Buddhism

Many Westerners are drawn to Buddhism because it feels rational, experiential, and compatible with science. But Buddhism also includes teachings—like karma, rebirth, and

89 - Chanting, Recitation, Mantras, and Dhāraṇīs in Buddhism

Chanting is one of the most widespread Buddhist practices, yet often one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we explore what chanting really is, how sound plays a

88 - The Buddha's Death & Parinirvana

The Buddha’s Last Teaching: Impermanence & Parinirvāṇa In this episode, we explore one of the most meaningful and human moments in all of Buddhism: the Buddha’s final da

87 - Ten Basic Buddhism Concepts (Buddhism in 10 Steps)

What is Buddhism? This podcast episode covers ten basic Buddhist concepts and also has a video! It's a companion to my book, Buddhism in 10 Steps, that I co-wrote with Bu

86 - After You Die...What Buddhists Believe About Life After Death

What do Buddhists believe happens after death? In this episode, we explore one of the most common and meaningful questions beginners ask about Buddhism. Rather than offer

85 - The Six Paramitas (Perfections)

In this episode, we explore the Six Paramitas, the “perfections” that form the gradual training path of a Bodhisattva in Mahayana Buddhism. From generosity and ethical

84 - Bodhisattvas

Bodhisattvas can be found in both Theravada and Mahayana branches of Buddhism. In Mahayana they take on a larger role where practitioners take on the path of the Bodhisat

83 - Twelve Links of Dependent Origination in Buddhism

What did the Buddha become "awakened" to? It was the twelve links of dependent origination! This is one of the most important concepts and teachings in Buddhism because a

82 - Pure Lands & Pure Land Buddhism

One of the most popular and widely practiced forms of Buddhism revolves around "Pure Lands". The ever popular Western Pure Land and Buddha Amitabha are the ones most peop

81 - Buddhism Q&A #5

In this episode, I answer questions from listeners about Buddhism and Buddhist practice! Chapters: 00:01 Introduction 00:28 "I always struggle to continue my practice.

80 - Meat Eating in Buddhism

Can you eat animal meat as a Buddhist? Do you have to be vegetarian? This is a common question and debate. Learn more in this episode! Read the article: https://alanpeto

79 - Love and Marriage in Buddhism

Can a Buddhist be in a romantic relationship? Married? What about the love we have for family and friends? Learn more about it in this episode! Contact Alan: alanpeto.co

78 - Repentance in Buddhism

Did you know Buddhists "repent" for their transgressions? This is a very popular practice, but also a very important one Westerners might be missing out on. Learn more ab

77 - A Buddhist Valentine's Day (Metta and Loving-Kindness)

"Metta" or "Loving Kindness" is a popular form of Buddhist practice (and teaching) that you can incorporate in a daily practice - and even Valentine's Day! Learn more ab

76 - A Buddhist Lunar New Year

Is there a "Buddhist" Lunar New Year celebration? What about "Mahayana New Year"? What does this have to do with Chinese New Year, Tet, etc? Learn more in this episode an

75 - Buddhism Questions & Answers #4

I'm answering your questions about Buddhism and Buddhist practice in this episode! I recently asked on social media what your questions are, and I got quite a few! This e