Ayya Khema Quotes
- Buddhist nun and meditation teacher
- Germany
- 1923
Ayya Khema (1923-1997) was a German-born Buddhist teacher and author who was influential in the spread of Buddhism in the West. She was the first Western woman to be ordained as a Theravada Buddhist nun and was a pioneer in the field of Buddhist women’s studies. She wrote over 20 books on Budd…Read More
Ayya Khema (1923-1997) was a German-born Buddhist teacher and author who was influential in the spread of Buddhism in the West. She was the first Western woman to be ordained as a Theravada Buddhist nun and was a pioneer in the field of Buddhist women’s studies. She wrote over 20 books on Buddhism, including the best-selling Being Nobody, Going Nowhere and Visible Here and Now. She was also a popular teacher, giving retreats and talks around the world. Her teachings focused on the practice of mindfulness and the development of wisdom and compassion.Read Less
Ayya Khema (1923-1997) was a German-born Buddhist teacher and author who was influential in the spread of Buddhism in the West. She was the first Western woman to be ordained as a Theravada Buddhist nun and was a pioneer in the field of Buddhist women’s studies. She wrote over 20 books on Buddhism, including the best-selling Being Nobody, Going Nowhere and Visible Here and Now. She was also a popular teacher, giving retreats and talks around the world. Her teachings focused on the practice of mindfulness and the development of wisdom and compassion.
Ayya Khema Career Highlights
- Born on August 25, 1923 in Berlin, Germany
- Ordained as a Buddhist nun in Sri Lanka in 1979
- Founded several Buddhist centers and monasteries in Europe and North America
- Authored over 20 books on Buddhism and meditation
- Traveled extensively to teach and lead retreats around the world
- Received the United Nations’ Outstanding Women in Buddhism Award in 2003
Key Contributions by Ayya Khema
- Ayya Khema was a pioneer in bringing Buddhism to the West, particularly to women.
- She founded several Buddhist centers and monasteries, including the Buddha-Haus in Germany and the International Buddhist Women’s Center in Sri Lanka.
- Ayya Khema’s teachings focused on the practical application of Buddhist principles in daily life, making them accessible to a wide audience.
- She was a strong advocate for gender equality in Buddhism and worked to empower women in the Buddhist community.
What Sets Ayya Khema Apart
- Ayya Khema was one of the first Western women to be ordained as a Buddhist nun.
- She was a highly respected teacher and author, known for her clear and practical approach to Buddhist teachings.
- Ayya Khema’s teachings were influenced by her own experiences as a refugee during World War II and her struggles with illness and chronic pain.
- She was known for her compassion, wisdom, and dedication to spreading the Dharma.
Takeaways
- Ayya Khema’s teachings continue to inspire and guide many practitioners around the world.
- She emphasized the importance of mindfulness, compassion, and self-awareness in leading a fulfilling and meaningful life.
- Ayya Khema’s work has helped to break down barriers and promote inclusivity in the Buddhist community.
- Her legacy lives on through her books, teachings, and the centers and monasteries she founded.