What does it mean to awaken—not just for oneself, but for the liberation of all?

In this episode of Teaching Peace, we explore Chapter 14 of the Dhammapada through the lens of the Buddha—the Enlightened One, the Knower, the Awakener. Just as “Christ” is a title that signifies transformation and divine presence, “Buddha” is more than a name—it is an invitation. An invitation to embody awareness, compassion, and liberation.

Jason Storbakken reflects on the declaration:
“More than a conqueror, the awakener moves beyond the cycle of conquering and being conquered.” (v. 179)

Drawing parallels with Christian scripture (“...we are more than conquerors...” – Romans 8:37), this episode explores how both traditions subvert domination and point toward healing. We journey through:

• The meaning of “Buddha” as a path and aspiration

• The Four Noble Truths as a spiritual response to suffering

• How awakening intersects with struggles for racial, gender, and economic justice

• The call to become Awakeners—people who transform pain into peace

With insights from Black and Buddhist by Cheryl A. Giles, this episode centers the First Noble Truth as an act of courage: to face suffering with compassion, and to begin walking the path of liberation—together.

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