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10
Apr 2022
Searching for inner peace with Harrogate's Buddhists
From the outside, it looks like a normal terraced house on a Harrogate backstreet, but inside its followers practice the ancient and mystical religion Buddhism.
Around 60 people in Harrogate are practicing Buddhists and visit Harrogate's Dechen Buddhist Centre on Granville Road.
It has a shrine upstairs for meditation and a meeting room to discuss the teachings of the Buddha, a religious leader who lived more than 2,500 years ago in what is now Nepal.
Followers of Buddhism don’t worship a supreme god or deity. Instead, they focus on achieving their goal of enlightenment, or Nirvana, which they say is a state of inner peace and wisdom.
Buddhism has traditionally been most popular in East and Southeast Asia, but its influence is growing in the west.
David Bullock started following Buddhism 14 years ago after a local newspaper article tweaked his interest.
He said:
Howard Quinn said Buddhism has helped him come to terms with a traumatic childhood.
He said:
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Inner peace
The Buddha’s most important teachings, known as The Four Noble Truths, are essential to understanding the religion.
These teachings involve discarding negative emotions such as hatred, anger and jealousy.
The centre in Harrogate is visited by Lama Jampa Thaye twice a year. A Lama is a spiritual guide and has the authority to impart the Buddha's teachings.
Greg Tunesi used to be a regular churchgoer but said joining Buddhism has been a life-changing experience.
Meditation is a key aspect of Buddhism and the path to enlightenment.
The centre offers meditation sessions every Wednesday at 10am and 7.15pm and on Saturdays at 11.15am.
Afterwards, they discuss a Buddhist teaching together and how it relates to their own lives and experiences.
Mr Tunesi said:
Goodness in life
Mr Quinn said many people come to Buddhism after facing trauma, illness or upheaval in their lives.
He said meditation and the teachings help soften the raw emotions that sometimes come with change.
Mr Quinn said:
Buddhists believe in karma, which is a philosophy that has transcended the religion and is something many of us are all familiar with.
Mr Tunesi added:
If you're interested in learning more about the Dechen Buddhist Centre call 01423 881647 or email info@yorkshirebuddhistcommunity.com
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