This month we celebrate Sangharakshita’s 99th birthday. In doing so we reflect on the enormous impact of his life and teaching, and what his ‘Going Forth’ has meant in all our lives within the Triratna movement.

In 1997, on the 50th anniversary of his 'Going Forth', Sangharakshita offered his own reflections on that significant moment and the Buddha's Noble Quest during an address at the Western Buddhist Order (now Triratna) convention.

‘Going Forth’ refers to renouncing worldly life to pursue a spiritual path, similar to the Buddha's departure from his princely life to seek enlightenment. In the talk, Sangharakshita shares how, at the age of 21, he followed this tradition by donning saffron robes, relinquishing his possessions, and embracing a life of meditation and minimalism in India. This act marked a pivotal turning point, symbolising a shift from a worldly way of living to a deeper spiritual quest.

He emphasised that Going Forth is not just a physical act but involves mental and verbal dimensions too, urging people to simplify their lives, refine their speech, and deepen their meditation practices. Sangharakshita's narrative serves as an inspirational reminder of the dedication required to follow the Buddha's path and the transformative impact of committing oneself to spiritual development.

Sangharakshita’s Complete Works: Final Volumes

This year we have been celebrating another momentous birthday: our own. In this, Windhorse Publications’ 50th year, we will be publishing the final three volumes of Sangharakshita’s Complete Works. Due out at the end of November, these last volumes complete a 27-volume collection that brings together the vast and profound teachings of Sangharakshita, ensuring that his wisdom and insights are available for future generations.

Volume 6: The Essential Sangharakshita

A curated selection of Sangharakshita's most pivotal writings, encapsulating the core of his teachings and providing an excellent entry point for newcomers and a rich resource for seasoned practitioners.

Volume 11: A New Buddhist Movement I

This volumes delves into the early years of the Triratna Buddhist Community, exploring the origins, growth, and pioneering spirit that shaped this unique movement. This volume is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and evolution of modern Buddhism.

Volume 27: Concordance to the Complete Works

The concordance serves as an invaluable reference tool, meticulously indexing the entire SCW collection. This concordance enhances the accessibility of Sangharakshita's teachings, allowing readers to easily locate specific topics and themes throughout his extensive body of work.

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