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Re: do Buddhists believe in ghosts or spirits?
I think whatever happens to consciousness when you die is probably so alien to human existence that there's probably no real way to fully explain it in any human language and with any human concepts.The dalai lama believes they are psychological. My understanding of his view is that everyone has an aspect of themselves which is hungry ghost which manifests to lesser and greater degrees. I have times when I think I am like a hungry ghost, such as when I am having a sense craving. Trying to get the right thing, try a glass of coke, and then a walk, and then a snack yet not really enjoying anything. That sounds like a hungry ghost.The common folk in Tibet interpret the ghost realms literally. I've seen this concept presented both ways. But there are other types of spirits in Tibetan belief, too--nature spirits, plus those Himalayan demons that were tamed and became dharma protectors.
Taiwanese buddhists belief in ghosts and spirits.
Re: do Buddhists believe in ghosts or spirits?
@vinlyn @Ficus_religiosa
Both this topic and Marxism seem Buddhism-appropriate. This topic deals with orthodox beliefs vs. unorthodox beliefs and which is to be believed. Marxism deals with a political view of HHDL (a Buddhist figure) and why he would adopt Marxism.
We all ponder about the imponderables. We just get tired of it eventually. And we all ponder about mundane things. We also cannot say what helps one on the path to liberation.
Both this topic and Marxism seem Buddhism-appropriate. This topic deals with orthodox beliefs vs. unorthodox beliefs and which is to be believed. Marxism deals with a political view of HHDL (a Buddhist figure) and why he would adopt Marxism.
We all ponder about the imponderables. We just get tired of it eventually. And we all ponder about mundane things. We also cannot say what helps one on the path to liberation.
Yishai
1
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.
_/\_