My name is Ira Zukerman.
I was raised in what I imagine to be a typical American household in the 50s (I am 60 now in 2016), not particularly religiously Jewish, but attending the neighborhood shul, which happened to be Orthodox. Growing up in the 70’s, I was exposed to a number of Eastern traditions, and did find in about 1973 a special interest in the tradition of buddhism that has come to be known as Shambhala. Later, marrying outside of both Jewish and buddhist traditions, seeking to find a religious home for a future family, we re-adopted Judaism as a target. In the process, while in the waiting room of a Reform synagogue while my son was in religious school, the book that the body of this website is intended to reveal more about, by Rosenberg (see home page), did come to my awareness. The rest, as they say, is history.
For discussion, comments, suggestions, etc., please feel welcome to share your thoughts here. Also, you can write to me at: zukerman dot family at comcast dot net.
Hello,
I’m responding to your article about the 4 Foundations of Mindfulness (“Those Aren’t No Stinking…” I don’t get your title, BTW). It has been known for quite some time that the Vidyadhara’s teachings are at some variance with those found in the Pali Canon, which are universally used, with the above exception.
Acharya Richad John has written (Nov. 2000, Banner magazine) of this and compared the two. I’d be happy to send it to you if you send me your email address.
Allan Novick
Alan, delighted by your reply. Also, liked your very recent slide show from the 80 seminary.
Please forward the article of reference to it, from which you speak…to…Zukerman.family@comcast.net. Re my article title….I was really shocked, when hearing the 4 Foundations presented…that they were not always and only as I’d heard them from the Vidyadhara. So, that was my reaction. As I wrote, I learned better. But, yes, please share the background. I will be interested in these notes. All best, Ira Zukerman
Do you speak to spiritual groups in the U.S.?
I did just present at the National Havurah Institute, but it’s not common. If you have a particular need and interest, let me know.