Sangharakshita

Sangharakshita was born Dennis Lingwood in South London in 1925. Largely self-educated he developed an interest in the cultures and philosophies of the East early on, and realised that he was a Buddhist at the age of sixteen.

The Second World War took him (as a conscript) to India, where he stayed on to become the Buddhist monk Sangharakshita, which means 'protected by the spiritual community'. After studying for some years under leading teachers from major Buddhist traditions, he went on to teach and write extensively. He also played a key part in the revival of Buddhism in India, particularly through his work among the most socially deprived people in India, often treated as untouchables.

After twenty years in India, he returned to England and established the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order (FWBO) in 1967, and the Western Buddhist Order in 1968 (known as Trailokya Bauddha Mahasangha in India). In doing this, he drew on his extensive life experience and lineage. A translator between East and West, between the traditional world and the modern, between principles and practices, Sangharakshita's depth of experience and clear thinking have been appreciated throughout the world. Among his distinctive teachings have been the decisive significance of commitment in the spiritual life, the paramount value of spiritual friendship and community, and the connection between spiritual practice and art.

Sangharakshita has published many books as well as poetry, and has given many talks and interviews.