Lama Rod Owens, a prominent Buddhist teacher, is challenging the traditional norms of Buddhist attire by incorporating his own personal style. He blends his training in Tibetan Buddhism with elements of pop culture and experiences from his life as a Black, queer man raised in the American South. Owens is known for his work focused on social change, identity, and spiritual wellness. His teachings can be found on popular mindfulness apps such as Calm, where he offers courses on topics like “Coming Out” and “Radical Self-Care.”
In his latest book, “The New Saints,” Owen explores the concept of saints from various spiritual traditions, highlighting figures like Christian saints, Buddhist bodhisattvas, and Jewish tzaddikim. He believes that ordinary people can embody the qualities of these spiritual warriors and work towards liberating themselves and others from suffering. Owens encourages individuals to integrate social and spiritual liberation into their everyday lives and become the “New Saints” of this era.
Despite growing up in a devout Christian family, Owens found himself distancing from traditional Christian beliefs during his college years. He sought to develop a healthy sense of self-worth and was disheartened by conservative views on gender and sexuality within the church. This led him to break away from Christianity and embrace a new form of service, focusing on advocacy for marginalized communities and individuals in need.
Owens’ spiritual journey eventually led him to Buddhism, where he found solace in the teachings of Tibetan Buddhist nun Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo. He was drawn to the idea of reducing harm and suffering for himself and others through the practice of mindfulness and compassion. At Harvard Divinity School, Owens deepened his understanding of various religious traditions and eventually found a way to reconcile with his own spiritual beliefs, seeing God as a force of love and energy rather than a punitive figure.
Today, Owens is a respected figure in the Buddhist community, known for his compassionate and inclusive approach to spirituality. He travels the world leading retreats, workshops, and meditation sessions, inspiring others to embrace their authentic selves and work towards social justice. His unique blend of Buddhist teachings, personal experiences, and pop culture references resonates with a diverse audience, bridging the gap between traditional spirituality and modern-day challenges.
Through his work as a teacher, author, and advocate, Lama Rod Owens continues to encourage individuals to explore their own paths to spiritual enlightenment and social change. By embracing one’s unique identity and blending traditional teachings with contemporary wisdom, Owens offers a fresh perspective on Buddhism and its relevance in today’s world. His message of self-acceptance, compassion, and liberation serves as a guiding light for those seeking a more inclusive and transformative spiritual practice.
