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Re: Buddhism, dogma's and reincarnation
Hermann Hesse's Siddartha has little in common with Buddhism. I was very disappointed with that book. I suggest if you want to understand Buddhism, seek reputable sources. A good place to start is www.buddhanet.net.
Vangelis
1
Re: Why would anyone want to reach Nirvana?
Frangible, I have no idea what a "santana" self is (latino rock music?), but I do know from 35 years of studying Buddhism that it does lead to true happiness the more you practice it. I wouldn't trade what I've gotten out of my experience with Buddhism for all that samsara can offer. In fact, there is no comparison.
What enlightenment really means is not some sort of extinction of self but the fullest realization of self beyond all imagination. What is there to fear about that? Better to contemplate what lies ahead if you don't make the effort, eh?
And I understand where you're coming from. In fact, it's a common feeling among those just starting out in their study of Buddhism. Don't let it throw you is my advice. Just keep contemplating and studying. I'd really suggest meditation as that can cut through some of the intellectualism that we're so comfortable with but that can sometimes lead us down the garden path, if you know what I mean. Just rest with your mind and see what happens!
Palzang
What enlightenment really means is not some sort of extinction of self but the fullest realization of self beyond all imagination. What is there to fear about that? Better to contemplate what lies ahead if you don't make the effort, eh?
And I understand where you're coming from. In fact, it's a common feeling among those just starting out in their study of Buddhism. Don't let it throw you is my advice. Just keep contemplating and studying. I'd really suggest meditation as that can cut through some of the intellectualism that we're so comfortable with but that can sometimes lead us down the garden path, if you know what I mean. Just rest with your mind and see what happens!
Palzang
Palzang
1
Re: Who says that Buddha was enlightened? - and other questions
Doubt is natural and healthy, but only as far as it helps you to achieve insight and confidence through analysis. To have doubt in a buddhist practice or "belief" but to not test the practice and determine through real personal experience its effect, is to cling to ignorance and personal views. To have faith and refuge in the Buddha is to have faith in the human potential for liberation and enlightenment.
Talisman
1
Re: Which sects of Buddhism suggest it is possible to attain enlightenment within this life?
Westerners who want less "blind faith" (not that Buddhist faith is actually blind, but they see it as this way), turn to a form of "de-mystified" "Buddhism" that emphasizes effort which, honestly, you would have to be a comfortably middle/upper-class person with plenty of leisure time to achieve the aspirations set forth by the masters.In the UK I'd say that Buddhism is still predominantly a middle class thing.
Re: Which sects of Buddhism suggest it is possible to attain enlightenment within this life?
Excellent post @zsc.
It occurred to me while reading it that the die hard, hard line Buddhists actually are trying to achieve something that is highly unlikely for them -- a total cessation of suffering. In reality, we can all reduce our suffering by following Buddhist principles.
It occurred to me while reading it that the die hard, hard line Buddhists actually are trying to achieve something that is highly unlikely for them -- a total cessation of suffering. In reality, we can all reduce our suffering by following Buddhist principles.
vinlyn
1
Re: Which sects of Buddhism suggest it is possible to attain enlightenment within this life?
No ,there isn't. But there are people who are alive and who show the fruits of awakening.It's all very subjective though, isn't it? That phrase "Beauty being in the eye of the beholder" springs to mind.
Re: Which sects of Buddhism suggest it is possible to attain enlightenment within this life?
What's the "evidence" though? I mean it's not like there's a scientific test to prove that somebody is enlightened.
There is plenty of evidence of both Mahamudra and Dzogchen practtioners who have Awakened in modern times. If you PM me I will give you some links.
_/\_
Re: what are the difference between mahayana and theravada?
what are the difference between mahayana and theravada?One is a Yana and the other is not.
Theraveda is a tradition/lineage much like Kagyu, and Zen are. Kagyu and Zen are a part of the Mahayana
and who were the bodhisattvas such as manjushri, avalokitesvara, vajrapani, and etc. where were they come from?"What" might be a more appropriate question. These Bodhisattvas may or may not be real beings, but in practical terms it may be better to view them as representative of qualities of "enlightened being".
yes, they are mentioned in various suttras as if they were real. And Lamas such as the Dalai Lama and Karmapa are said to be manifestations of Avalokiteshvara. But you have to consider what "real" means in the context of Mahayana teaching. And this:
were they unseeable by normal people?They'll say yes. Bodhisattvas, such as Avalokiteshvara, are said to be emanations in the Sambogakaya, which is unseen but beings such as ourselves.
If you're just getting started, I wouldn't worry about this stuff. There are more important things for you to study and practice right now.
Chaz
2
Re: what are the difference between mahayana and theravada?
Don't take some random forum guys/gals view without a grain of salt. I would recommend doing some reading and youtube viewing.
Mahayana practitioners aren't all vegetarians. I am not.
I don't agree that you need to study theravada first. I started with mahayana and I did just fine.
Mahayana practitioners aren't all vegetarians. I am not.
I don't agree that you need to study theravada first. I started with mahayana and I did just fine.
Jeffrey
3