Frequently Asked Questions about Buddhism & Meditation
Please contact us if these FAQs do not answer your question.
No. Anyone can learn basic meditation and experience the benefits. Buddhism is a non-evangelical religion.
Buddhists respect all people and are happy to help anyone regardless of whether they subscribe to another faith or to none.
No. All you need is the wish to improve yourself and the quality of your life.
If you wish to take notes, please bring a pen and notepad.
The cost of a class varies depending on length, or is $60.00 per month for unlimited classes, which helps support the Center and the branches. As a non-profit organization, fees for classes and sales from our bookshop are our only source of income to pay for our operating expenses and to support the further development of the World Peace Temple.
Everyone can participate in the classes regardless of ability to pay. Please contact the Administrative Director at admin@meditateinhollywood.org if you have questions.
No special clothing is required. Come as you are.
Although Buddhism first appeared in India over two and a half thousand years ago, it has a timeless and universal relevance. In a nutshell, Buddha explained that all our problems arise from confused and negative states of mind. He taught methods for ridding the mind of these destructive states and thereby realizing true happiness and fulfillment. These methods work for any mind, in any country, at any age.
Buddhists regard all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas as perfect guides and role models, and as such, naturally develop faith in them and rely upon them as Spiritual Guides. As a meditator approaches, and eventually attains, enlightenment he or she develops extraordinary mental powers. These include the ability to bless receptive minds with powerful transforming energy that greatly accelerates the process of mental development. For this reason, Buddhists strive, through meditation, prayer, and various ritual practices, to communicate with enlightened beings and receive their transforming blessings.
The New Kadampa Tradition is global Buddhism. Just as the Tibetans faithfully adopted the practices taught to them by the great Indian masters and adapted those to their own culture, so Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the founder of the New Kadampa Tradition, encourages people from all ethnic backgrounds to adopt the wisdom and compassion of Buddha and put it into practice in a way that suits their particular culture.