Exoteric and esoteric forms of Buddhadharma are difficult to separate, since their historical development is closely related. The tradition of Secret Mantra is not esoteric just in the sense that its inner teachings have been kept secret among initiates. Exoteric texts, which are publicly available, also contain the essence of esoteric teachings, but these can only be fully understood through direct experience, developed in training under guidance of a qualified master. Pith instructions that contain the accumulated wisdom of masters through centuries are conveyed as secret oral instructions. Additional esoteric understanding is preserved in commentaries, ritual manuals, as well as records of oral transmission. Relative secrecy is supposed to prevent misunderstanding and misuse, and thereby to protect teachings from corruption.

Here's the transcript from the Q&A section in the introductory session of "Three Pathways of Awakening" virtual course, being offered through Buddhist Geeks. The question by a participant was basically - what is specifically post-traditional in this approach? What follows is an attempt to answer on the spot.

Right view is impossible without awakened imagination.

Whatever your style of practice, if you're interested how an authentic post-traditional approach to Buddhadharma may look like, and curious to see how *you* can make it a reality, join me for this 6-week exploration, as the list of participants is filling up.

Stuart Lachs has written another piece that looks at some Chan/Zen standard practices of legitimacy and authenticity. Much of what becomes obvious is generally applicable to many other traditional models of institutionalization, transmission, and empowerment, Buddhist or otherwise.

Just to share with you some of what I've been up to, and what my plans are for this year and next.