Learn Buddhism with Alan Peto

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 discipline to patience, joyful effort...

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 Bodhisattva towards helping all sentient beings and make...

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 all our Buddhist traditions and practices arise...

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 people practice in with Buddhism. Learn more about...

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. I am active for six months then loose interest."...

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: Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage...

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.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast...

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 about repentance in Buddhism, why it's important...

"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 about the "Love" that Buddhism teaches, and the...

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 and how Buddhists practice! Contact Alan...

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 episode will be long due to the number of...

Did the Buddha and Jesus know each other? Did Buddhism influence Jesus' ministry? Are there similarities between Buddhism and Christianity? You're likely to hear one or all of these in your study of Buddhism. In this...

Discover the deep roots of Zen Buddhism in our latest episode. We'll journey through its rich history and tackle common Western misconceptions. Explore the origins of Zen in Chan Buddhism, the profound practice of...

In this episode we delve into the Buddhist practice of guarding the six sense organs—eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind. Discover how mindful observation, reflection, and meditation can help prevent unwholesome...

Two seemingly unrelated festivals have a Buddhist connection: The Hungry Ghosts Festival and the Ullambana Festival (also called Sangha Day). Both go back to the time of the Buddha where he gave instruction to one of...

Blessings are a beautiful and important part of Buddhism, but they can often be confused with merits. Learn about what blessings are, how they are invoked, and how to integrate into your Buddhist practice. Contact Alan...

The third installment of questions asked by you! - "How can I integrate the practice with my day-to-day life as a westerner?" - "Can I become a Buddhist if I drink or smoke socially?" - "How can you create karma with...

Buddhists have "virtues" they uphold on their path towards enlightenment and nirvana. What is wonderful about the virtues is that they are meant to be practiced and upheld in everyday life! Learn about nine (9) Buddhist...

What are all the 'realms of rebirth' in Buddhism (and "Samsara" or the "Cycle of Rebirth")? And what do they mean to you as a layperson Buddhist practitioner? Are they real? Are they a state of mind? Let's explore!...

Learn Buddhist Mindfulness Breathing! Want to do breathing meditation like the Buddha? It's known as Ānāpānasati / Ānāpānasmṛti but is commonly referred to as "mindfulness of breathing". And it can be as straightforward...

The Diamond Sutra is the 'diamond' or 'lightening bolt' that cuts through 'illusion' that helps us become enlightened. It is one of the most well respected sutras in all of Mahayana Buddhism and found practiced widely...

I received so many questions related to Buddhism, I have another episode! Learn what I think about these questions! Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 00:20 - How much time does it take to reach nirvana? 03:17 - How can I...

What is "Western Buddhism"? Practiced outside of Asia where Buddhism is traditionally practiced, Western countries have been adopting Buddhism, but often in different nuanced ways. Let's explore what Western Buddhism...

Did you know the Buddha was once a baby? Learn about the Buddha's birth, and how we celebrate the Buddha's birthday in May! Read the article: and Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage: alanpeto.com/podcast...

Buddhist altars are an important part of Buddhist practice. Let's explore why they are important, what they do, how we build them, and where to place them. Contact Alan: alanpeto.com/contact Podcast Homepage...