In addition to the three historic turnings attributed to Buddha, there have also been three evolutionary turnings that Buddhism has undergone (four according to some accounts, if you include Tantra. If so, we would be talking of a "Fifth Turning," but we’ll keep it simple with the more common three so far.)
The first evolutionary turning, Theravadan Buddhism, is based on the realizations of Gautama Buddha himself, who illuminated the path of nirvana (the end of misery). The second turning, Mayahana Buddhism, stressed that “nirvana and samsara are not two.” The third turning, Vajrayana Buddhism, added an exquisite set of practices for realizing our true nature.
It has been over a thousand years since the last major evolution of Buddhism. Since that time we have witnessed astonishing advancements in science, art, psychology, technology, governance, values, cultural attitudes, and almost every other facet of our lives. These developments have utterly transformed our humanity, redefining our very sense of self in radical ways, and have brought a dramatic increase of freedom and material abundance to the world at large.
Buddhism, it would seem, may now be ripe for yet another turning of the wheel.
The Fourth Turning program features in-depth explorations of the evolution of Buddhism — where it’s been, where it is, where it’s going—while offering a powerful and comprehensive guide for enlightened living in the 21st century.
Below you will find a staggering 24 hours of high-definition video teachings by Ken Wilber and some of our most treasured Buddhist teachers: Diane Musho Hamilton, Doshin Michael Nelson Roshi, Patrick Sweeney, and Andrew Holecek.
Everything below is available to Integral Life members.
Not a member? Access EVERYTHING on this page (as well as our full library of practices, presentations, and perspectives) for just $1. Click here to learn more and to start your Integral Life!
Everything here is available to Integral Life members.
Not a member? Access EVERYTHING on this page (as well as our full library of practices, presentations, and perspectives) for just $1. Click here to learn more and to start your Integral Life!