Rolly Prager
Dr. Lars Fogelin will discuss The Origins of Buddhism in South Asia on Sunday, March 25 at 10:00 a.m. in the MountainView Ballroom. Traditionally, the Buddha is believed to have lived in the fifth and sixth centuries BCE. During his life he promoted meditation and other highly individualistic religious practices to allow his followers to transcend the earthly world and become enlightened. Dr. Fogelin will discuss how solitary, meditative Buddhism was slowly transformed by the Buddhist clergy into an organized religion. Among the primary ways the clergy achieved this newfound collective Buddhist identity was through the creation of stunningly beautiful Buddhist temples. By carefully examining these early Buddhist temples, we can learn about the ways that Buddhism changed and developed in the centuries after Buddha’s death – and even how we understand Buddhism today.
Dr. Fogelin is an Associate Professor in the School of Anthropology at the University of Arizona. He specializes in the archeology of Buddhism in South Asia.
SaddleBrooke Freethinkers provide a forum for the responsible search for truth and meaning in understanding the universe, and in understanding and solving human problems by applying science and reason. We believe that tolerance, compassion, equity, and civility should characterize the interaction among peace-loving persons and organizations. We strive to achieve these goals through meetings, lectures, discussions, and other means of communication. In 2017, the SaddleBrooke Freethinkers initiated a $10 annual membership fee. In addition to the program events which are open to all, members will also enjoy member only events throughout the year.
The SaddleBrooke community is cordially invited to attend Freethinkers meetings at 10:00 a.m. usually on the fourth Sunday of each month October through April. Attendees are encouraged to arrive by 9:30 for pre-meeting coffee and fellowship. Non-members are encouraged to make a $2 donation to defray costs.
Information about SaddleBrooke Freethinkers, upcoming presentations and programs is at [email protected].
Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items and cash donations to the meetings to support the Tri-Community Food Bank.