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Which Tradition?

FletcherFletcher
edited May 2010 in Buddhism Basics
How do I choose a traditon to follow, I'm finding it all a little confusing. It feels like a big decision to commit to one tradition, where do I start? Thank you.
Kind regards
Gary

Comments

  • JeffreyJeffrey Veteran
    edited May 2010
    Try reading some authors and articles and things. See if one tradition makes more sense or you think it is more helpful to you. You can always change.
  • FoibleFullFoibleFull Canada Veteran
    edited May 2010
    Fletcher wrote: »
    How do I choose a traditon to follow, I'm finding it all a little confusing. It feels like a big decision to commit to one tradition, where do I start? Thank you.
    Kind regards
    Gary

    Try one. For months/years. If it doesn't come to fit like a comfortable old shoe, but you still like Buddhism, try another.

    You don't "commit" until/unless you take vows, be they layperson vows or monk's vows.
  • FletcherFletcher
    edited May 2010
    Thank you for your replies.
  • SherabDorjeSherabDorje
    edited May 2010
    Maybe start with the distinction between Mahayana and Theravada. Always best to start very simply.
  • RichardHRichardH Veteran
    edited May 2010
    I would suggest starting with this....

    http://www.buddhanet.net/4noble.htm

    It is the heart of all traditions.
  • GuyCGuyC Veteran
    edited May 2010
    I would advise against taking any vows which, if you decide at a later time are not for you, lead to "Vajra Hell" for giving them up. In other words, don't make a choice out of fear, make the choice because it frees the heart, not binds the heart. This is not just when it comes to choosing a tradition, but it is a good guiding principle for any decisions you have to make.
  • ZenBadgerZenBadger Derbyshire, UK Veteran
    edited May 2010
    If you live outside of the big cities in the UK then there is a lot to be said for the pick'n'mix or butterfly approach. Take advantage of teachings where you can get them, don't make commitments based on unsustainable travel or short term living arrangements and make use of other means such as internet and reading. I would dearly love to immerse myself in the practice of Chan but the only face to face teaching I ever get a chance to attend is Tibetan. A thirsty man doesn't quibble over the difference between wine and water.
  • TransmetaphysicalTransmetaphysical Veteran
    edited May 2010
    I suggest not bothering with which tradition is "right." What writings ring true to you? Which writings seem authentic to you? Which practices are compatible with your daily life or reasonably doable?

    I like different aspects of the different traditions. I like the Sutras and Nagarjuna philosophy of Mahayana, but disapprove of Bodhisattvas (Buddha said no one can save you). I like the Suttas of Theravada, but not it's practice. I like the Bodhidharma and Zen's existential and practical philosophy. From the Tibetan tradition, I like the Dalai Lama's wisdom and teachings, but disapprove of worship and prayers.


    .
  • DazzleDazzle
    edited May 2010
    Fletcher wrote: »
    How do I choose a traditon to follow, I'm finding it all a little confusing. It feels like a big decision to commit to one tradition, where do I start? Thank you.
    Kind regards
    Gary


    Hi Gary,

    Before choosing a tradition, first study the core teachings of the Buddha. A very good place to start is at the link given by Richard.


    Kind regards,

    Dazzle




    .
  • SherabDorjeSherabDorje
    edited May 2010
    Transmetaphysical wrote: »

    I... disapprove of Bodhisattvas (Buddha said no one can save you).


    .

    Bodhisattvas do not save people. They alleviate suffering. They teach people. They assist in people saving themselves, but they do not save people.

    I suspect that part of the reason for the growth of the idea of the Bodhisattva is to teach people motivation and the generation of generalized compassion. Generalized compassion is a very healthy state.

    Bodhisattvas take a vow to assist people in alleviating their own suffering, and this is something that is crucial in Mahayana- it's what makes Mahayana what it is, as distinguished from Theravada.
  • FletcherFletcher
    edited May 2010
    Thank you all for your replies and advice, Richard thank you for the link.
    I will keep an open mind, I have much reading to do.
    ZenBadger thank you I live in a remote area of Scotland face to face teaching isn't unfortunately an option for me right now as my nearest group is 100 miles south of here but hope to make the journey down in the future.
    I am currenty reading "Taming the Tiger" by Akong Tulku Rinpoche who is the co founder of Kagyu Samye Ling Tibetan Buddhist centre in Scotland, which is place that I hope to visit too.
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