Makan Buddhism
Makan Buddhism is a combination of Zen Buddhism and Tibetan Buddhism. It takes its simplicity from Zen Buddhism, but does have lineages of lamas as in Tibetan Buddhism but foregos the complex ritualism, and symbolism of Tibetan Buddhism. It is known to only exist in the Grand Kingdom of Aerion, however no other elements of Oriental culture could truly be said to exist in Aerion.
Founder
Lama Kath Makan came to Aerion in the earliest history when nomadic tribes roamed the plains and hills of what is now western Aerion. He began teaching Buddhism to the nomadic clans in the hills, and eventually a full tribe known as the Kelthrens embraced his teachings. Even though they still kept vestiges of the Old Aerion Tribal religion, they embraced Makan’s teachings and named him the “Great Lama”. In a remote valley in the mountains Kath Makan established what is now known as the Great Monastery, a small collection of huts at the time for him and his monastics.
It is not known from where he came, it is assumed that he was from a country where Buddhism was predominant.. His life expresses him as a deeply devout man, but as one who was sternly focused on the ultimate goal of enlightenment. Little else is known of him…
Beliefs
- In the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path (All Buddhists)
- Belief in reincarnation lineages of certain lamas known as tulkus
- Sitting Meditation (Zazen
- Koans (riddles) meant to open the mind of the student, given in a private session.
- An active pursuit of enlightenment, through the intellectual shock of the Koans, or the streneous efforts and high-discipline of martial arts.
- Sacred mantras passed from lama to student that hold special power to awaken enlightenment.
- Simplicity, more practice less study
As one can see, Makan Buddhism is primarily a monastic tradition. However, followers can become lay people, and obtain good karma by donating to their local temple or a monastery.
Structure
High Lama
Lama
Roshi
Monk
Layperson
-The High Lama is a single individual who is considered the supreme spiritual authority and teacher in Makan Buddhism. He is considered a direct spiritual descendent, and reincarnation of Lama Kath Makan through a lineage of 12 before him. He wears maroon robes with golden brocade cuffs, a yellow hat, and sash to indicate his status.
Who the High Lama is is determined through a mixture of astrology, prophecy, and signs. It is difficult to determine, though usually the more respected Lamas decide.
-Lamas usually head a monastary, and are the authority of that monastary. They are considered reincarnations of a previous spiritual teacher. Also known as a tulku.
-Roshis are teachers of Makan Buddhism who are not necessarily considered or can be confirmed as tulkus, but are needed as there are only a small number of living Lamas. Roshis sometimes travel around giving sesshins (retreats) which laypersons may attend.
-Monks are required to take vows of celibacy and poverty. They are normally part of a sangha (community) which is in a monastary normally led by a Lama. They wear simple maroon robes. Some individual monks may attend to a shrine or simple temple though are usually part of a community.
