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Re: Theravada & Mahayana Buddhism: Differences & Similarities
@yiming, There's only conditions. Whether a mind wakes up quickly or slowly depends on individual circumstances and effort to understand the nature of reality.
Cloud
1
Re: Similarities between Buddhism and the Tao Te Ching
An elder Zen master is sometimes given the title of Roshi which literally means Laozi or Lao Tzu.
Re: Comparing the teachings of Jesus and Buddha? Jesus is still the way?
Thanks indentityless, that was a good comparison. I have to say I would not disagree with anything in it.
I'm not sure if your intention was anything beyond charing a good article, but if you were trying to convince Buddhists that Christ is better, then....*yawn* .... I won't be pulled into another one of these debates. It's getting tedious.
Buddha compared the "way" to a raft for getting across an ocean - to get to the other side. Once you have reached the shore, you would not carry the raft on your back. Do not become too attached to your religion.
But thanks! :bigclap:
I'm not sure if your intention was anything beyond charing a good article, but if you were trying to convince Buddhists that Christ is better, then....*yawn* .... I won't be pulled into another one of these debates. It's getting tedious.
Buddha compared the "way" to a raft for getting across an ocean - to get to the other side. Once you have reached the shore, you would not carry the raft on your back. Do not become too attached to your religion.
But thanks! :bigclap:
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