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About the FWBO

One of Buddhism's strengths is its ability to adapt to each new culture it encounters. Throughout history, it has evolved and taken many new forms in order to reach people of widely different backgrounds. At the same time, remarkably, it never loses touch with its essential truths.

Continuing in that tradition, the FWBO aims to bring Buddhism to our contemporary western society. Founded in 1967 by an Englishman named Sangharakshita, the FWBO expresses the central principles of Buddhism in ways that are relevant to men and women living in a modern world.

Commitment is primary, lifestyle is secondary

As Buddhists we express our commitment through our devotion to the Three Jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma (the teachings), and the Sangha (the spiritual community). In many traditions, the primary way to do this is to become a monk or a nun. We recognize that in our society, this is a choice that most can't or aren't willing to make for a whole variety of reasons. In the FWBO, we believe it's possible to express our commitment without making a radical departure from our modern lifestyles.

Practicing with the Boston FWBO

The Boston FWBO is one of many FWBO centers in North America and around the world. We offer informal classes on meditation and Buddhism, and hold weekly gatherings to explore what it means to practice Buddhism in a western context. Retreats are also an important part of our practice. We encourage everyone to attend day, weekend, or week-long retreats at the Aryaloka Retreat Center near Portsmouth NH.

Participating in activities with the Aryaloka community and the greater US and worldwide sangha offers many opportunites for further involvement.

More about the FWBO

Click here to learn more about our founder, Sangharakshita.

To learn more about the FWBO as a worldwide movement, please visit these sample links from the main FWBO web site: