Ahimsa Living Circle

The Ahiṃsā Living Circle is a virtual community for those curious about veganism, Jainism, the Dharma traditions, and living compassionately. Co-hosted by Cogen Bohanec, MA, PhD, Assistant Professor in Sanskrit and Jain Studies at Arihanta Institute, and Hope Bohanec, Executive Director of Compassionate Living and the host of the Hope for the Animals Podcast, our goal is to build a supportive network of leaders, teachers, scholars, and advocates who believe that extending compassion to animals and the Earth is central to any spiritual journey. The Ahiṃsā Living Circle will be held every second Saturday of the month. It is intended as a place of community building and support for those exploring veganism, non-violence, and ahiṃsā. These elements will be incorporated into each meeting. Everyone is welcome. Together, let's discover how we can live a compassionate life aligned with our deepest ethic of non-violence. This month's Ahiṃsā Living Circle on Saturday, June 14, we will be exploring the timeless spiritual guidance of the Visuddhimagga, the classical Theravāda Buddhist manual on meditation and mental purification. Particular attention will be given to mettā bhāvanā, the cultivation of loving-kindness, as well as karuṇā (compassion), muditā (empathetic joy), and upekkhā (equanimity)—the brahmavihāras or “sublime abodes.” These meditations are not only central to the Buddhist path but also resonate deeply with contemporary vegan spirituality, rooted in nonviolence (ahiṃsā), universal empathy, and interbeing. Drawing comparisons between the Buddhist systems outlined in the Visuddhimagga and the Hindu and Jain meditation traditions discussed in earlier circles, this talk will deepen our understanding of the shared roots and unique approaches within the broader tapestry of dharmic contemplative wisdom. This month’s Circle will further our ongoing inquiry into vegan spirituality, inviting reflection on how ancient practices of meditation support a life of harmlessness, clarity, and loving awareness. Whether you’re just beginning your path or seeking to deepen your understanding, Cogen’s clear, warm, and insightful teaching will offer tools and inspiration to support your journey. We are a community driven by the principles of non-violence (ahiṃsā), non-possession (aparigraha), and openness to dialogue with other religious traditions (anekāntavāda). We value honest and open dialogue, genuine sharing, inclusivity, and freedom of thought. We strive to create an accessible, equitable, and safer space for opening minds and hearts where all are welcome. Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/WwCY8iRDRlCgg1QkwqvldQ