What is Modern Buddhism?
Modern Buddhism in the New Kadampa Tradition refers to the presentation of Buddha’s ancient teachings in a way that is clear, practical, and directly applicable to modern daily life–regardless of a person’s background, culture, or belief system.
This approach was developed by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, the founder of the NKT, who dedicated his life to making the essence of Buddha’s wisdom accessible and relevant to people today. In his words:
“Modern Buddhism is a special presentation of Buddha’s teachings that retains their original meaning while making them easy to understand and practise in modern society.”
— from the book Modern Buddhism
The book Modern Buddhism is available as a free eBook and widely used in Kadampa centers around the world.
What are the Key Teachings of New Kadampa Buddhism?
The New Kadampa Tradition is a modern presentation of Kadampa Buddhism that includes the Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana paths. They are rooted in the teachings of Buddha and the great Indian and Tibetan masters such as Atisha and Je Tsongkhapa.
All practices are grounded in love and compassion for all living beings. With the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, these teachings are presented in a way that speaks to modern people — clear, accessible, and relevant to the pace and problems of contemporary life.
The three key teachings are:
- Lamrim, or “Stages of the Path to Enlightenment.” This practical, step-by-step guide takes us from the basics of developing a kind heart, through cultivating deep wisdom all the way to the attainment of enlightenment to benefit all living beings.
- Lojong, or “Training the Mind.” These teachings show how we can use everyday difficulties as opportunities to grow stronger spiritually, developing greater patience, compassion, and wisdom—and learning to keep a calm and positive mind, whatever life brings.
- Mahamudra. According to Sutra, this refers to the profound view of emptiness. A direct realization of emptiness enables us to accomplish complete liberation from the sufferings of samsara. According to Tantra, or Vajrayana, Mahamudra is the union of spontaneous great bliss and emptiness through which we can attain full enlightenment.
What is unique about the New Kadampa Tradition?
One unique feature of the New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) is its structured approach to studying and practising Buddhism through three specially designed study programs:
- The General Program – open to everyone and ideal for beginners,
- The Foundation Program – for those who want to deepen their understanding and meditation practice,
- The Teacher Training Program – for those who wish to train as qualified Dharma teachers.
These programs provide a clear, step-by-step path for learning and applying Buddha’s teachings in daily life, making spiritual progress accessible and practical for everyone. This systematic structure is one of the reasons the NKT has grown into a strong, worldwide community of sincere practitioners.
Who do Kadampas rely upon?
In the New Kadampa Tradition, practitioners rely principally upon four enlightened beings, known as the Four Kadampa Deities.
Buddha Shakyamuni – the founder of Buddhism. Buddha Shakyamuni is the principal object of refuge for all Buddhists.
Avalokiteshvara – the Buddha of Compassion. By relying upon Avalokiteshvara we naturally increase our own compassion.
Green Tara – the female Buddha of wisdom and compassion. Kadampas rely on her especially in times of difficulty and for quick help in removing obstacles.
Dorje Shugden – the Wisdom Dharma Protector for modern Kadampas, who helps, guides and protects sincere practitioners from inner and outer obstacles by granting blessings, increasing their wisdom and fulfilling their virtuous wishes.
Through relying on these four Deities, Kadampa practitioners emphasize the essential practices of Kadampa Buddhism that enable them to gain pure Dharma realizations and make progress on the spiritual path.
What holy days are celebrated in the New Kadampa Tradition?
In the New Kadampa Tradition (NKT), several special holy days are celebrated each year to honor significant events in the Buddhist calendar and to deepen our connection with enlightened beings. These days are powerful opportunities to engage in collective prayer, purification, and the accumulation of merit.
All holy days in the NKT are observed according to the Western calendar, making it easy for practitioners around the world to participate together on the same dates.
Celebrating these special days helps to keep our spiritual life vibrant and meaningful. They offer a chance to step back from our busy routines, connect with others in the Kadampa community, and receive deep inspiration and blessings that support and strengthen our ongoing practice.
NKT celebrates:
- NKT Day (First Saturday in April)
- Buddha’s Enlightenment Day (April 15)
- Turning the Wheel of Dharma Day (June 4)
- Buddha’s Return from Heaven Day (September 22)
- Je Tsongkhapa Day (October 25)
- International Temples Day (First Saturday in November)
What is the New Kadampa approach to mental health?
All Buddha’s teachings help to improve our mental well being and happiness. However, we are not mental health experts and always recommend people with mental health problems to seek help from professional medical health practitioners.
What is the New Kadampa approach to physical health?
Although there are healing practices taught within Kadampa Buddhism, those suffering from physical illness are always advised to seek medical attention.
Does the New Kadampa Tradition have any political affiliations?
As a tradition, the focus is on operating independently, without political affiliations or ties to specific cultural, national, or ideological identities. Emphasis is placed on pure spiritual practice, free from worldly concerns.
How does the New Kadampa Tradition view other religions?
The New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) holds a respectful and inclusive view towards other religions.
As explained in Modern Buddhism by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, the founder of the NKT, there are many different forms of Buddhism–such as Zen, Theravāda, and others–and all are regarded as equally precious. Though their presentations may differ, they are all pure lineages of Buddha’s teachings, and suited to the needs and dispositions of different people.
This spirit of respect also extends beyond Buddhism. The NKT respects any religion that teaches a path to true happiness.
How does the New Kadampa Tradition handle complaints of misconduct?
The New Kadampa Tradition (NKT) takes complaints of misconduct seriously and follows a comprehensive Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, adopted in 2018. This policy applies to all individuals in positions of responsibility within the tradition, including teachers, staff, and volunteers.
The policy aims to protect everyone–especially children and adults-at-risk–and reflects the NKT’s commitment to maintaining a pure, peaceful, and respectful environment.
