A Dharma Response to Gaza

A group of Buddhist teachers and leaders of various religions have compiled a collection of essays and letters stating their position on the War in Gaza from the perspective of their respective religions and practices. Coordinated by the Sacred Justice Coalition, “Gaza: Calling for a Dharma Response” contains 17 articles and 13 letters calling for deeper reflection and action on the injustice of the War in Palestine, the genocide of Palestinians, the failure and complicity of US and international response to Zionist aggression, and the danger of a wider world war.

From the Introduction: “As the unrelenting onslaught on Gaza continues, we are confronted by a world spiraling into increasing chaos. The seismic global shifts of recent months, including the possibility of a largerMiddle East/global war engulfing us all, have radically reshaped our understanding of the world. Many Dharma practitioners now recognize that as a Buddhist/Dharma community, we are not equipped to address the challenges of our times. This underscores the necessity of collaboratively cultivating an informed, resilient Engaged Dharma Culture that empowers us to address the moral crises of our era.

At present, as the world struggles to uphold humane values safeguarded by internationally recognized legal and moral standards, there is an urgency to join forces for a complete ceasefire. This further compels us to reflect on our roles as Dharma leaders and practitioners. Silence from Dharma teachers, sangha leaders, and Centers have left many feeling abandoned. In this context, there is a need to dialogue and explore how biases and other factors influence our response to Gaza, and beyond. Bhikkhu Bodhi’s call to Buddhists in his article, “No Time for Silence,” lays out the moral imperative for us to visibly respond to the devastation of Gaza. As do the words shared in Sacred Mountain Sangha’s “Calling for a Ceasefire” event. Here’s a 3-minute clip. We also offer this collaboratively made webzine, with many brave voices that seek to undo the chains of quietism while calling for engagement. Please also see a resource list (including the entire “Calling for a Ceasefire” video) at the end of this publication.

This collective offering is intended to support further inquiry, dialogue and engagement. We also invite you to visit Sacred Mountain Sangha, which collaborates with Dharma groups and centers to present dharma offerings through our Awakening Activism events that are currently focused on a Ceasefire in Gaza and beyond, including wider systemic change. In the spirit of compassion, join us as we explore building together a cross-sangha Dharma Culture that can more fully meet the unprecedented challenges of these times. In solidarity, Sacred Justice Coalition in collaboration with Sacred Mountain Sangha, and an International Coalition of Dharma Teachers, Leaders, and Sangha Members.” (For context, most of the articles and letters were submitted at the end of 2023 and early in 2024.)

Free PDF: Gaza: Calling for a Dharma Response