What is the difference between Buddhist Meditation and the “Shambhala” Meditation?
The technique of mindfulness that is taught is essentially the same. The context of how the technique is presented is different. In Buddhism, meditation discipline is presented as a method for achieving enlightenment by overcoming ignorance and experiencing the truths of impermanence and egolessness. Shambhala Training meditation is presented as a method for connecting with our inherent goodness and wakefulness. It is a discipline available to anyone, regardless of the cultural or religious tradition they belong to, who wishes to develop gentleness and open their “warrior´s heart.” There is an emphasis on recognizing the sanity that exists in all peoples and societies. Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche has emphasized that the Buddhist and Shambhala Paths work in tandem, with the former emphasizing the development of enlightenment and the latter emphasizing the creation of a good society.
