Questions for Buddhists

[BetheButterfly]

Hello! I have decided to study more about Buddhism. It is one of the main religions that I know next to nothing about. Before studying, I had originally assumed Buddhism was mainly monks in beautiful orange like the picture here Monks' Robes and Hats - Buddhist Things - ReligionFacts

with statutes of a fat Buddha like this one The Happy Fat Buddha: A Representation of Maitreya Buddha’s Blessings « Sana Ako si Ricky Lee!

in their gardens/houses. However, I have since learned that the original Buddha wasn't fat!

 

Anyways, I am currently reading Buddha, The Gospel Index

 

For Buddhists, which of the writings inspires you and why? Which writings do you believe are very important that express the foundations of the Buddhism? What do you consider to be the foundations/main teachings of Buddhism? Thanks!

[zengirl]

I practice Zen Buddhism (a very Japanese form of it, too), which is a school of Mahāyāna Buddhism. The two major schools have some major differences. The thing about Zen - though I have read many books and many of the sutras and studied the history and so forth - is that I don't think it can be well encompassed in books.

 

The truth of Zen is in meditation. Koan meditation, blank-wall meditation, and meditative life. I have stayed at more than a few monasteries and made my treks and I meditate daily. That is my practice. The history is interesting, but it has little to do with the religion.

 

This book is the best book I can think of on the direct experience of a monastery today (well, not today, but in a relatively modern era, and not much has changed on the monastery front): The Empty Mirror, Experiences in a Zen Monastery.

 

I would suggest reading the sutras, searching out koans, and the like, if you're interested in scholarly bits, and there's certainly plenty from more ancient periods, but really. . . I don't think Buddhism is very sacred in its history. The whole idea of Zen especially is that spiritual practice isn't about what happened in the past or what will happen in the future, but what is happening this moment.

 

ETA: I also love many modern-day blogs, including the blog Hardcore Zen. He often says things I think. So, I would suggest not just looking at the 'old stuff' but the new stuff too. This post is especially great, if you don't mind the profanity: http://hardcorezen.info/buddhism-a-religion-based-on-not-giving-a-****/1010 He illustrates in that post that it's not a religion about belief, which is what makes it so different from other religions.

 

Here are a link to some translated Sutras: http://www4.bayarea.net/~mtlee/

 

And koans: http://www.ashidakim.com/zenkoans/zenindex.html

Edited July 18, 2012 by zengirl

[BetheButterfly]

I practice Zen Buddhism (a very Japanese form of it, too), which is a school of Mahāyāna Buddhism. The two major schools have some major differences. The thing about Zen - though I have read many books and many of the sutras and studied the history and so forth - is that I don't think it can be well encompassed in books.

 

Thanks Zengirl!

 

Is it mainly taught through classes?

 

The truth of Zen is in meditation. Koan meditation, blank-wall meditation, and meditative life. I have stayed at more than a few monasteries and made my treks and I meditate daily. That is my practice. The history is interesting, but it has little to do with the religion.

 

So, is meditation the aim of Zen Buddhism? What does meditation do for you? How do you meditate? Thanks.

This book is the best book I can think of on the direct experience of a monastery today (well, not today, but in a relatively modern era, and not much has changed on the monastery front): The Empty Mirror, Experiences in a Zen Monastery.

 

I would suggest reading the sutras, searching out koans, and the like, if you're interested in scholarly bits, and there's certainly plenty from more ancient periods, but really. . . I don't think Buddhism is very sacred in its history. The whole idea of Zen especially is that spiritual practice isn't about what happened in the past or what will happen in the future, but what is happening this moment.

 

OK thanks! This is very different than Christian beliefs, in that Christian beliefs are based on history and the prophecies/promises God gave to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel), considered by his followers to be started being fulfilled through Jesus, with the completion being when Jesus comes back. Maybe that's why history interests me so much. However, that is very intriguing about how Zen Buddhism focuses on the moment and not on the past or the future.

 

ETA: I also love many modern-day blogs, including the blog Hardcore Zen. He often says things I think. So, I would suggest not just looking at the 'old stuff' but the new stuff too. This post is especially great, if you don't mind the profanity: Buddhism, a Religion Based on Not Giving a f***? | Hardcore Zen He illustrates in that post that it's not a religion about belief, which is what makes it so different from other religions.

 

Thanks! In his article, I am a bit confused by this: "Buddhism is not a belief system. It has a cosmology attached to it. " Does this mean that Buddhism is more of a philosophy than a religion? Thanks

[zengirl]

Thanks Zengirl!

 

Is it mainly taught through classes?

 

The way I learned it, it is mainly taught by living. Reading, to a degree, in terms of finding the philosophy, but the more important thing is the way you choose to experience it.

 

So, is meditation the aim of Zen Buddhism? What does meditation do for you? How do you meditate? Thanks.

 

Mediation is more the vehicle than the aim. Meditation is a part of everyday living. Doing one thing at a time, for instance, can be meditative.

 

As the saying goes: "Before Enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After Enlightenment, chop wood, carry water."

 

Basic tasks and every aspect of life can be spiritual and meditative, if that is your goal. Nothing changes, except you. That is kind of the premise.

 

What most people think of - blank wall/blank mind meditation or zazen - is important too, but it's important to note it's not the only kind of meditation and that getting to that 'blank' state is rare and requires tons of practice. It's the trying that's more important.

 

There are also meditative ways of thinking, like reflecting on a koan, many of which are a bit like riddles.

 

One of my favorites is "The Short Staff":

 

The Short Staff

Shuzan held out his short staff and said, "If you call this a short staff, you oppose its reality. If you do not call it a short staff, you ignore the fact. Now what do you wish to call this?"

 

There are many more. But you see how that has a kind of think-it-out quality?

 

OK thanks! This is very different than Christian beliefs, in that Christian beliefs are based on history and the prophecies/promises God gave to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel), considered by his followers to be started being fulfilled through Jesus, with the completion being when Jesus comes back. Maybe that's why history interests me so much. However, that is very intriguing about how Zen Buddhism focuses on the moment and not on the past or the future.

 

Well, yes, and I want to be clear that I don't mean that it ignores history. Most monks understand the history of Buddhism and their specific sect and follow practices that have been handed down. I just don't think it makes history as important as many religions.

 

Thanks! In his article, I am a bit confused by this: "Buddhism is not a belief system. It has a cosmology attached to it. " Does this mean that Buddhism is more of a philosophy than a religion? Thanks

 

Not really, though as he says, it depends how you define religion. (All religions are also philosophies anyway.) There IS a cosmology, so it's a religion. But in many Buddhist sects, the cosmology is of no real concern, as religion and spirituality are more about what you do/think/believe about yourself and the world as you interact with it than what supernatural things you believe.

[zengirl]

I want to add, Be, that the reason that I think Buddhism appeals to me, personally, is that I feel like it's a religion where you 'save yourself' -- not without the wisdom and help of others perhaps -- versus most other religions where, from my view, you seek to be saved by someone or something else. I would say that is the crux of Buddhism and similar religions, and that's why the 'cosmology' is relatively unimportant, compared to other religions.

 

I'm not suggesting it need to appeal to anyone else for that reason, and I'd never want to proselytize, but I think that's an aspect of Buddhism that must be understood to really understand the practice.

[BetheButterfly]

The way I learned it, it is mainly taught by living. Reading, to a degree, in terms of finding the philosophy, but the more important thing is the way you choose to experience it.

 

I liked the "A Cup of Tea" Very true lol. It's a good mural. I do have to admit that I'm used to thinking in a certain culturally modified way, so it takes me a while to try to picture the Zen Koans in the native cultural setting in which they were originally told. It would be lovely to visit Japan to learn more. I have no interest in converting to Buddhism, but I do very much enjoy learning about other beliefs, as well as other cultures and traditions. I love the Japanese art forms!!!

 

Mediation is more the vehicle than the aim. Meditation is a part of everyday living. Doing one thing at a time, for instance, can be meditative.

 

As the saying goes: "Before Enlightenment, chop wood, carry water. After Enlightenment, chop wood, carry water."

 

Very cool!

 

Basic tasks and every aspect of life can be spiritual and meditative, if that is your goal. Nothing changes, except you. That is kind of the premise.

 

Nice! I like that and yes I do believe every aspect of life can be spiritual. I do meditate, but when I meditate, I think and pray about Bible verses or inspirational ideas. I very much see your point. It is an excellent point.

 

What most people think of - blank wall/blank mind meditation or zazen - is important too, but it's important to note it's not the only kind of meditation and that getting to that 'blank' state is rare and requires tons of practice. It's the trying that's more important.

 

Ahh see, that's where I automatically draw back, because I don't like the idea of blank mind meditation. I personally think that is ... not the best idea in my case lol though I respect other peoples' right to practice it.

 

There are also meditative ways of thinking, like reflecting on a koan, many of which are a bit like riddles.

 

I actually am hoping to enjoy meditating on many of these koans. They are cool.

 

One of my favorites is "The Short Staff":

 

The Short Staff

Shuzan held out his short staff and said, "If you call this a short staff, you oppose its reality. If you do not call it a short staff, you ignore the fact. Now what do you wish to call this?"

 

Could you please explain "oppose it's reality"? Also, why not simply just call the staff a staff. Why is not calling it short ignoring it? Just curious.

 

There are many more. But you see how that has a kind of think-it-out quality?

 

Yeah it does seem like mental exercises, which is cool.

 

 

Well, yes and I want to be clear that I don't mean that it ignores history. Most monks understand the history of Buddhism and their specific sect and follow practices that have been handed down. I just don't think it makes history as important as many religions.

 

Understood

 

 

 

Not really, though as he says, it depends how you define religion. (All religions are also philosophies anyway.)

 

Good point. Agreed though it is a tad confusing to me still. I should meditate on that!

 

There IS a cosmology, so it's a religion. But in many Buddhist sects, the cosmology is of no real concern, as religion and spirituality are more about what you do/think/believe about yourself and the world as you interact with it than what supernatural things you believe.

 

Very cool! I noticed I wrote "Thanks" many times in my previous thread to you so I won't anymore, but I do appreciate your taking the time to answer my questions. Again, I have no desire to convert. However, Buddhism is very interesting and I see why many people are Buddhists. For what it's worth, I do admire and love the beauty and serenity that I have seen in Buddhist atmospheres (mostly in pictures.)

 

I love the pictures below:

Google Image Result for http://www.buddhachannel.tv/portail/local/cache-vignettes/L500xH373/buddhist_garden-d16bb.gif

[BetheButterfly]

I want to add, Be, that the reason that I think Buddhism appeals to me, personally, is that I feel like it's a religion where you 'save yourself' -- not without the wisdom and help of others perhaps -- versus most other religions where, from my view, you seek to be saved by someone or something else. I would say that is the crux of Buddhism and similar religions, and that's why the 'cosmology' is relatively unimportant, compared to other religions.

 

I'm not suggesting it need to appeal to anyone else for that reason, and I'd never want to proselytize, but I think that's an aspect of Buddhism that must be understood to really understand the practice.

 

I wrote you but the moderator has to check it. I think it's because I copied a link from a beautiful Buddhist garden in Japan that I think is beautiful, but I'm not sure really why.

 

Anyways, I understand you're not proselytizing. I am not studying about Buddhism in order to convert, but rather to understand. There are things that I have learned about that I disagree, but I also think I can learn and grow from things I do agree with in Buddhist thought. I really like the zen koans though i have to try to understand them in their cultural context, because I am not very familiar with the culture. I would like to meditate on many of the zen koans. I like them better personally than the sacred writings linked here http://www.sacred-texts.com/bud/btg/index.htm

because the sacred writings are very confusing to me. Like I wrote in the thread that needs to be reviewed, it would be cool to someday visit Japan (or India ?) to learn more too.

[zengirl]

Oh, yes, the sutras and the sacred texts can be confusing. Most old, sacred texts can! For me, it is much easier to hear someone explain a sutra or actually have an experience that echoes that sutra than it is to simply read it. The experiential nature of Zen is what appeals to me.

[BetheButterfly]

Oh, yes, the sutras and the sacred texts can be confusing. Most old, sacred texts can! For me, it is much easier to hear someone explain a sutra or actually have an experience that echoes that sutra than it is to simply read it. The experiential nature of Zen is what appeals to me.

 

In my post that is getting moderated, I wrote that it seems that meditating on koans is a mental exercise. I like that and am enjoying reading and pondering/meditating on what the koans mean!

 

The "Obedience" one is funny and clever! I like it. "In Dreamland" is funny too! I enjoy the sense of humor in many of the koans! I also like "How Grass and Trees Become Enlightened" Very good point! It reminds me a bit of some of Jesus' words.

 

I have to go now. Thanks for the cool discussion.

 

Peace In Buddism, do they bless? How do you say farewell?

[mercy]

Here are two of my favorite sites.

 

Tiny Buddha: Wisdom Quotes, Letting Go, Letting Happiness In

 

Zen for Christians - Orange County Christian Counseling, Christian marriage counseling Orange County

 

I am a Christian and Buddhism to me is a way of life, it speaks to my soul in a very natural way.

 

Sufism is another that adds peace to my life. Here is a great site concerning Sufism.

 

What is a Sufi? | Pir-o-Murshid Hidayat Inayat-Khan | International Sufi Movement • USA

 

Here is one that sends daily devotionals, great site! I love to see them in my email box each morning. Called, Bowl of Saki.

 

Wahiduddin's Web

 

Bowl of Saki Subscription Page

 

Hope you have a day filled with joy!

[BetheButterfly]

Here are two of my favorite sites.

 

Tiny Buddha: Wisdom Quotes, Letting Go, Letting Happiness In

 

Zen for Christians - Orange County Christian Counseling, Christian marriage counseling Orange County

 

I am a Christian and Buddhism to me is a way of life, it speaks to my soul in a very natural way.

 

Sufism is another that adds peace to my life. Here is a great site concerning Sufism.

 

What is a Sufi? | Pir-o-Murshid Hidayat Inayat-Khan | International Sufi Movement • USA

 

Here is one that sends daily devotionals, great site! I love to see them in my email box each morning. Called, Bowl of Saki.

 

Wahiduddin's Web

 

Bowl of Saki Subscription Page

 

Hope you have a day filled with joy!

 

Hi Mercy,

 

"ZCOC welcomes Christians who wish to practice Zen. In our community, we have active Roman Catholics, Jews, atheists, Buddhists and people from all backgrounds and traditions."

 

Zen for Christians - Orange County Christian Counseling, Christian marriage counseling Orange County

 

- That's very cool!

 

As for Suffism,I don't know very much about that either, except I thought it was a form of Islam? (My Muslim friends are Sunni, from India.)

 

"What is a Sufi? | Pir-o-Murshid Hidayat Inayat-Khan | International Sufi Movement • USA", is very interesting. It did confuse me a little bit, but What is Sufism? goes into a bit more detail. Do you consider the above to be an accurate explanation of Sufism? Thanks, and thanks for the blessing! Hope you have a day filled with joy too!

Edited July 19, 2012 by BetheButterfly

[William]

Any post with a ton of commercial and/or external links *may* get caught up in auto-moderation. Expect review/approval within 1-12 hours. The more links, the greater the chance of something tripping up the software barriers. Carry on.

[zengirl]

It would be lovely to visit Japan to learn more. I have no interest in converting to Buddhism, but I do very much enjoy learning about other beliefs, as well as other cultures and traditions. I love the Japanese art forms!!!

 

If you ever do go to Japan, the one thing you should really, really do is attend a traditional tea ceremony. I think you would really like it, Be.

 

Ahh see, that's where I automatically draw back, because I don't like the idea of blank mind meditation. I personally think that is ... not the best idea in my case lol though I respect other peoples' right to practice it.

 

It can be very troubling at first. Before I ever started, I was basically told, "This will NOT be pleasant for a long time" and it wasn't. It is very painful at first, or was for me, both mentally (most of the pain) and physically (the posture takes some training). But very helpful for me long-term.

 

Could you please explain "oppose it's reality"? Also, why not simply just call the staff a staff. Why is not calling it short ignoring it? Just curious.

 

I can explain what I think of that koan, though the thing about koans is there are interpretations but no "meanings" per se since everyone can find their personal meaning through meditation.

 

I love that one because part of the cosmology of Buddhism - the part I love best - is that everything is one, to some degree. So I am you and you are me and we are all everything and nothing. Kind of. I mean, different sects have differing views, but that's very much a part of the Zen mindset. I am not really my body or my mind, and yet I am absolutely my body and my mind. The short staff is much like that. It isn't REALLY a short staff - that is just its form - and yet it IS a short staff, because that is its form. Form is both an illusion and real. Balancing that idea is what a lot of Zen meditation centers around, in one form or another.

 

But if you were to meditate on that or any other koan, you could absolutely come up with your own meanings as well. What is mostly done, though, since many people who study Zen have a teacher and respect the knowledge that has come before to SOME degree is that someone may develop new meaning for a koan that builds upon what they have heard before. Just as you could, in your practice of Christianity (and maybe already do), meditate on scripture and come up with new insights to build upon that passage. Though Buddhist texts are all a bit more fluid, at least in Zen practice.

 

As to your pic, I've been in places like that! Very pretty. Japan is absolutely beautiful, and I miss it a lot sometimes.

[mercy]

Hi BetheButterfly!

 

This is what Sufiism is to me -

 

What is a Sufi?

 

By Pir-o-Murshid Hidayat Inayat-Khan

 

What is a Sufi?

One who does not separate himself from others by opinion or dogma;

and who realizes the heart as the Shrine of God.

 

What does the Sufi desire?

To remove the false self and discover God within.

 

What does the Sufi teach?

Happiness.

What does the Sufi seek?

Illumination.

 

 

What does the Sufi see?

Harmony.

 

What does the Sufi give?

Love to all created things.

 

What does the Sufi get?

A greater power of love.

 

What does the Sufi find?

GOD.

 

And lose?

self

 

The Sufis are not an ethnic or religious group, but a mystical movement that is found all over the Islamic world and that still has a deep influence on the varied populations of the Middle East.

Sufism grew historically as a reaction against the rigid legalism of the orthodox religious leadership and as a counterweight to the growing worldliness of the expanding Muslim empire. SUFISM: THE MYSTICISM OF ISLAM

 

Sufi's believe that true knowledge comes directly from God, not a person or religion. That really spoke to my heart because I believe I serve a living breathing God who speaks to me, whom I have a personal relationship with. Though I believe my path to be through Jesus Christ, Sufism enlightens me and draws me nearer to God.

 

I just love your threads. They make me think and touch my soul. Thank you!

[eleanorhurting]

It is nice to see Christians learning and respectfully inquiring about other religions

[TaraMaiden]

Hello! I have decided to study more about Buddhism. It is one of the main religions that I know next to nothing about. Before studying, I had originally assumed Buddhism was mainly monks in beautiful orange ....

with statutes of a fat Buddha like this one....

in their gardens/houses. However, I have since learned that the original Buddha wasn't fat!

 

....

For Buddhists, which of the writings inspires you and why? Which writings do you believe are very important that express the foundations of the Buddhism? What do you consider to be the foundations/main teachings of Buddhism? Thanks!

 

Beth, first of all, I would like to thank you for your openness and kind nature in starting a thread like this.

 

There are two main "Schools" of Buddhism, one is Theravada, and the other is Mahayana.

Mahayana - or The Greater Vehicle - is an 'umbrella' tradition for different sub-schools, such as Zen, Pure-Land and Tibetan Buddhism. These different sectors have quite a few differences in their approaches and systems.

 

Theravada - The Teachings of the Elders - is the oldest and perhaps the most orthodox system of Buddhism, and the various sub-sections differ very little.

 

Theravada and Mahayana both largely teach the Buddha's core values - The Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and - mainly for lay practitioners, as opposed to the ordained - the first 5 to 8 precepts.

This website is stunningly authoritative, and extremely respected in Buddhist circles for referral.

 

I practise Theravada Buddhism, but regularly use practises prevalent in Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.

It's not a question of "picking and choosing" or 'straddling two boats midstream'; it's about developing a practice which nourishes you and helps you to grow.

There is no main piece of work, or single point of reference we adhere to, but the Pali Canon (Tripitaka) is a collection of the Buddha's teachings, and these teachings are known as Suttas.

Tripitaka means 'three baskets' and the teachings are largely and broadly divided into these three sections:

 

The Vinaya Pitaka (Discipline Basket) was recalled by a monk named Upali. It deals with rules and regulations for the monastic community (the sangha), including 227 rules for monks, further regulations for nuns, and guidelines for the interaction between the sangha and the laity. Most of these rules derive from the Buddha's responses to specific situations in the community.

 

The Sutra Pitaka (Discourse Basket) was recited by Ananda, Buddha's cousin and closest companion. It contains the Buddha's teachings on doctrine and behavior, focusing especially on meditation techniques.

 

The Abhidharma Pitaka (Higher Knowledge or Special Teachings Basket) was recited by Mahakashyapa, the Buddha's successor. It is essentially a collection of miscellaneous writings, including songs, poetry, and stories of the Buddha and his past lives. Its primary subjects are Buddhist philosophy and psychology. Also within the Abhidharma Pitaka is the Dhammapada (Dharmapada in Sanskrit), a popular Buddhist text. The Dhammapada consists of sayings of the Buddha and simple discussions of Buddhist doctrine based on the Buddha's daily life.

 

Further study of the above teachings is comprehensively presented on this website.

I eat, drink and breathe this.

 

I hope this helps.

 

thank you again.

[TaraMaiden]

It is nice to see Christians learning and respectfully inquiring about other religions

 

It's refreshing, and actually, precisely as it should be.

[BetheButterfly]

If you ever do go to Japan, the one thing you should really, really do is attend a traditional tea ceremony. I think you would really like it, Be.

 

I saw on Tyra Bank's America's Next Top Model their trip to Japan and the models learning how to gracefully serve tea in beautiful kimonos. I thought it was gorgeous!!!

 

 

It can be very troubling at first. Before I ever started, I was basically told, "This will NOT be pleasant for a long time" and it wasn't. It is very painful at first, or was for me, both mentally (most of the pain) and physically (the posture takes some training). But very helpful for me long-term.

 

Are the positions similar to yoga? I personally have never tried yoga, though the hot-air? yoga seems interesting. I'm not incredibly flexible so that's why I've never tried it, but I like the idea of the hot air (and I don't remember the proper term for that but it sounds intriguing.

 

 

 

I can explain what I think of that koan, though the thing about koans is there are interpretations but no "meanings" per se since everyone can find their personal meaning through meditation.

 

Ahh ok. That is a very deep and philosophical thought... personal interpretations instead of the same meaning for everyone.

 

I love that one because part of the cosmology of Buddhism - the part I love best - is that everything is one, to some degree. So I am you and you are me and we are all everything and nothing. Kind of.

 

To me that's a cool idea, which I guess I can associate with "connection." For example, one thing I love about Christian beliefs is the connection between God and people, including me. It's almost like the Internet connection lol. That reminds me a bit of what Jesus said, "On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you." (John 14:20). I also believe we have a connection to nature, to plants and animals, and the earth, which makes sense because we are creatures of the earth.

 

I mean, different sects have differing views, but that's very much a part of the Zen mindset. I am not really my body or my mind, and yet I am absolutely my body and my mind. The short staff is much like that. It isn't REALLY a short staff - that is just its form - and yet it IS a short staff, because that is its form. Form is both an illusion and real. Balancing that idea is what a lot of Zen meditation centers around, in one form or another.

 

It's very deep philosophy.

 

But if you were to meditate on that or any other koan, you could absolutely come up with your own meanings as well. What is mostly done, though, since many people who study Zen have a teacher and respect the knowledge that has come before to SOME degree is that someone may develop new meaning for a koan that builds upon what they have heard before. Just as you could, in your practice of Christianity (and maybe already do), meditate on scripture and come up with new insights to build upon that passage. Though Buddhist texts are all a bit more fluid, at least in Zen practice.

 

Cool!

As to your pic, I've been in places like that! Very pretty. Japan is absolutely beautiful, and I miss it a lot sometimes.

 

I hope to visit Japan someday with my husband! When was the last time you went to Japan?

[BetheButterfly]

Hi BetheButterfly!

 

This is what Sufiism is to me -

 

What is a Sufi?

 

By Pir-o-Murshid Hidayat Inayat-Khan

 

What is a Sufi?

One who does not separate himself from others by opinion or dogma;

and who realizes the heart as the Shrine of God.

 

What does the Sufi desire?

To remove the false self and discover God within.

 

What does the Sufi teach?

Happiness.

What does the Sufi seek?

Illumination.

 

 

What does the Sufi see?

Harmony.

 

What does the Sufi give?

Love to all created things.

 

What does the Sufi get?

A greater power of love.

 

What does the Sufi find?

GOD.

 

And lose?

self

 

The Sufis are not an ethnic or religious group, but a mystical movement that is found all over the Islamic world and that still has a deep influence on the varied populations of the Middle East.

Sufism grew historically as a reaction against the rigid legalism of the orthodox religious leadership and as a counterweight to the growing worldliness of the expanding Muslim empire. SUFISM: THE MYSTICISM OF ISLAM

 

Thanks for the info on Sufism! I didn't know much about Sufism either and it's cool to learn more.

 

Sufi's believe that true knowledge comes directly from God, not a person or religion. That really spoke to my heart because I believe I serve a living breathing God who speaks to me, whom I have a personal relationship with. Though I believe my path to be through Jesus Christ, Sufism enlightens me and draws me nearer to God.

 

I also believe true knowledge comes directly from God and my path to be through Jesus Christ.

 

I just love your threads. They make me think and touch my soul. Thank you!

 

Thanks for your posts too!!! I feel blessed reading them and I think it's cool that strangers can become friends and enjoy interacting together on forums!!!

 

Love you though I don't know you outside of the forum!

[BetheButterfly]

Beth, first of all, I would like to thank you for your openness and kind nature in starting a thread like this.

 

There are two main "Schools" of Buddhism, one is Theravada, and the other is Mahayana.

Mahayana - or The Greater Vehicle - is an 'umbrella' tradition for different sub-schools, such as Zen, Pure-Land and Tibetan Buddhism. These different sectors have quite a few differences in their approaches and systems.

 

Theravada - The Teachings of the Elders - is the oldest and perhaps the most orthodox system of Buddhism, and the various sub-sections differ very little.

 

Theravada and Mahayana both largely teach the Buddha's core values - The Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path and - mainly for lay practitioners, as opposed to the ordained - the first 5 to 8 precepts.

This website is stunningly authoritative, and extremely respected in Buddhist circles for referral.

 

I practise Theravada Buddhism, but regularly use practises prevalent in Tibetan Mahayana Buddhism.

It's not a question of "picking and choosing" or 'straddling two boats midstream'; it's about developing a practice which nourishes you and helps you to grow.

There is no main piece of work, or single point of reference we adhere to, but the Pali Canon (Tripitaka) is a collection of the Buddha's teachings, and these teachings are known as Suttas.

Tripitaka means 'three baskets' and the teachings are largely and broadly divided into these three sections:

 

The Vinaya Pitaka (Discipline Basket) was recalled by a monk named Upali. It deals with rules and regulations for the monastic community (the sangha), including 227 rules for monks, further regulations for nuns, and guidelines for the interaction between the sangha and the laity. Most of these rules derive from the Buddha's responses to specific situations in the community.

 

The Sutra Pitaka (Discourse Basket) was recited by Ananda, Buddha's cousin and closest companion. It contains the Buddha's teachings on doctrine and behavior, focusing especially on meditation techniques.

 

The Abhidharma Pitaka (Higher Knowledge or Special Teachings Basket) was recited by Mahakashyapa, the Buddha's successor. It is essentially a collection of miscellaneous writings, including songs, poetry, and stories of the Buddha and his past lives. Its primary subjects are Buddhist philosophy and psychology. Also within the Abhidharma Pitaka is the Dhammapada (Dharmapada in Sanskrit), a popular Buddhist text. The Dhammapada consists of sayings of the Buddha and simple discussions of Buddhist doctrine based on the Buddha's daily life.

 

Further study of the above teachings is comprehensively presented on this website.

I eat, drink and breathe this.

 

I hope this helps.

 

thank you again.

 

Wow thanks for the information!!! This is better than going to university lol, because I feel it is tailored directly to what I want to learn!

 

Is Theravada Buddhism very different than Zen Buddhism, and if so, how so? Or is it more due to region? For example, I read in the link,

 

"Because Theravada historically dominated southern Asia, it is sometimes called "Southern" Buddhism, while Mahayana, which migrated northwards from India into China, Tibet, Japan, and Korea, is known as "Northern" Buddhism.[6]"

 

What is Theravada Buddhism?

 

Also, I thought this was very interesting and insightful:

 

"According to this immutable law, every action that one performs in the present moment — whether by body, speech, or mind itself — eventually bears fruit according to its skillfulness: act in unskillful and harmful ways and unhappiness is bound to follow; act skillfully and happiness will ultimately ensue.[13] As long as one remains ignorant of this principle, one is doomed to an aimless existence: happy one moment, in despair the next; enjoying one lifetime in heaven, the next in hell."

 

What is Theravada Buddhism?

 

Thanks so much TaraMaiden for answering my questions! Even though there are some things I disagree with, like "On the fullmoon day of May, in the year 623 B.C., there was born in the district of Nepal an Indian Sakya Prince named Siddhartha Gotama, who was destined to be the greatest religious teacher in the world." from Buddhism in a Nutshell - The Buddha

 

because as I'm sure you know, I personally consider Jesus to be the "greatest religious teacher in the world" or actually I prefer spiritual teacher rather than "religious", but anyways, I do respect other people believing differently and it's understandable that Buddhists would naturally consider Siddhartha Gotama who became Buddha to be the greatest religious teacher. I respect that. For example, I know many Muslims if not most consider Muhammad to be the "greatest religious teacher in the world" which also is understandable that this is their view. However, it is cool to study what others believe and respect what they believe. We all live together on earth, and I've learned good things from Islam as well as I am learning good things from Buddhism and Sufism.

 

Peace Oh! Another question. Is there an expression in Buddhism concerning wishing/desiring for others peace or well wishes, or blessings?

 

Thanks so much for your answers and willingness to teach about what you believe/think/follow!!! I think many misunderstandings between people come about through not understanding others.

 

Lol I just realized that is rather obvious, "misunderstandings between people come about through not understanding others." Lol

 

Anyways, I am growing in respecting and understanding Buddhism and Buddhists through interacting with Buddhists and learning about Buddhism. I don't agree with many things but I am learning there are most definitely things that edify me in Buddhist teachings. Thanks so much to you and Zengirl and Mercy (and with Sufism) and y'alls patience. Forgive me if I ask redundant questions... sometimes it takes awhile for me to grasp an idea clearly.

Edited July 20, 2012 by BetheButterfly

[mercy]

 

Thanks for your posts too!!! I feel blessed reading them and I think it's cool that strangers can become friends and enjoy interacting together on forums!!!

 

Love you though I don't know you outside of the forum!

 

awww I feel the same way lass! Blessed is what my life is when people like you enter it. There lies the beauty of God's love for us.

 

Here is today's Bowl of Saki -

 

Every blow in life pierces the heart and awakens our feelings to sympathize with others; and every swing of comfort lulls us to sleep, and we become unaware of all. Bowl of Saki, July 20, by Hazrat Inayat Khan

[TaraMaiden]

Thanks so much TaraMaiden for answering my questions! Even though there are some things I disagree with, like "On the fullmoon day of May, in the year 623 B.C., there was born in the district of Nepal an Indian Sakya Prince named Siddhartha Gotama, who was destined to be the greatest religious teacher in the world." .

 

because as I'm sure you know, I personally consider Jesus to be the "greatest religious teacher in the world" or actually I prefer spiritual teacher rather than "religious",

I think any person we consider teacher, helps us to grow and if we follow their example, then we abide by, and contribute to, the message of good will and compassion for other beings. The core value of worship or devotion, is to transcend selfishness and develop altruism.

The Buddha existed a full 500 years before Christ. There are even some theories that Jesus, during his "intermediate" years, may well have chosen to travel extensively and learn about matters outside his home territory. Much of what he teaches, can be found in the Buddha's teachings too. But this is a point for other discussion, and I'm really not seeking to either confront or argue. I'm merely illustrating what some theories have tabled as a possibility.

 

 

but anyways, I do respect other people believing differently and it's understandable that Buddhists would naturally consider Siddhartha Gotama who became Buddha to be the greatest religious teacher. I respect that. For example, I know many Muslims if not most consider Muhammad to be the "greatest religious teacher in the world" which also is understandable that this is their view.

Quite. It's not always the map that matters, it's the journey...

 

Oh! Another question. Is there an expression in Buddhism concerning wishing/desiring for others peace or well wishes, or blessings?

 

As far as Theravadins are concerned, "With Metta" is very commonplace....Metta is a Brahma Vihara - or one of the "4 sublime States.

 

 

Anyways, I am growing in respecting and understanding Buddhism and Buddhists through interacting with Buddhists and learning about Buddhism. I don't agree with many things but I am learning there are most definitely things that edify me in Buddhist teachings.

Let me just say that Buddhism is in one particular and specific way, a very simple calling to follow: because Buddhists do not subscribe to the existence of an eternal, omnipotent and all-powerful God - the teachings can be universally implemented into your own personal daily practice, without compromising them, or influencing them adversely. You can incorporate any Buddhist teaching, and find that rather than contradicting anything you yourself adhere to, it will actually underpin it, support it and add value and strength to it.

 

Remember that practice is different to tradition or ritual.

Not all that is found in Buddhism is of Buddha-origin.

 

To give you an example, there are some schools of Buddhism which actively discourage homosexuality, and consider it to be unskillful. Other schools merely state that we should avoid sexual misconduct - but do not specify or single out any specific type.

There is nothing anywhere in the Pali canon that condemns or criticises homosexuality, and neither has it been found anywhere, that the Buddha condemned it.

 

Just as an example.

[RickyLovesLucy]

It's refreshing, and actually, precisely as it should be.

Well, here's more refreshment. I'm a pretty church-y Christian but I've always been interested in other religions, Buddhism in particular.

 

I once took a class in Hinayana (lesser vehicle) Buddhism, which I think is the same as Therevada. (Please correct me if I am mistaken.)

 

I remember one monk's summary of the two schools of thought: "greater vehicle, lesser vehicle, all vehicles will be towed away at the owner's expense".

[M30USA]

I've read "Siddhartha".

 

Truthfully of all eastern religion books I liked "The Wisdom of Laotse" the best. Lots of wisdom in there.

 

C.S. Lewis would say that certain of these books definitely contain true philosophies--even if they don't contain complete truth in the sense of being God's full revelation in the person of Jesus Christ.

[TaraMaiden]

 

I once took a class in Hinayana (lesser vehicle) Buddhism, which I think is the same as Therevada. (Please correct me if I am mistaken.)

No, you are not mistaken, although Hinayana is generally taken to be a perjorative term - although i don't personally take offence, because in the end, it's all just 'labels'...

 

I remember one monk's summary of the two schools of thought: "greater vehicle, lesser vehicle, all vehicles will be towed away at the owner's expense".

:laugh:

 

I've read "Siddhartha".

You mean the book by Hermann Hesse? You realise that's a fictional adaptation?

There is a plethora of far more informative, accurate and educational literature available....

 

Truthfully of all eastern religion books I liked "The Wisdom of Laotse" the best. Lots of wisdom in there.

That's Taoism, and has little or nothing to do with Buddhism....

 

C.S. Lewis would say that certain of these books definitely contain true philosophies--even if they don't contain complete truth in the sense of being God's full revelation in the person of Jesus Christ.

 

C.S.Lewis "would" say....?

 

Do you mean he did say it, or that you're putting words into his mouth?

Might I say therefore that C. S. Lewis 'would' also say that the Pali and Sanskrit texts referring to the Buddha's teachings precede Biblical Christian scripture by around 500 years or more, and that therefore "The complete truth, in the sense of being God's revelation in the person of Jesus Christ" are actually echoes of previous religious/spiritual instruction?

Because there are glaring similarities in many of the teachings of the Buddha, and the subsequent teachings of Jesus.

 

you may find this article interesting.