Buddhism

Final Essay on Master of Buddhism

Thank your for offering this course on Buddhism. I found it to be very interesting and informative. I learned so many things I was not aware of before the course. I learned about the Guatama Buddha (Siddhartha Guatama) and his life and how he is considered the founder of the Buddhist Religion. Guatama Buddha was a fully enlightened being. The course covers how he was born and brought up and lived and died, technically a Hindu.

This course also covered the differences between Buddhism, Hinduism and many other religions. I also learned a lot about the other religions. Buddhism is one of the oldest religions, predating Christianity. It’s amazing that the Buddhism religion is here today. The first 200 years was only an oral tradition. This was a very in depth class. It had a lot of information from the course text, the Internet and other resources. I read several of the books suggested and enjoyed their information.

One particular area of interest was on Nivana. It is the most misunderstood term in Buddhism. Those in the West recognize the term as Heaven or a Heaven on Earth. The Buddhist describes Nirvana as the ultimate goal and it is reached in the state during enlightenment. Nirvana literally means extinguishing or unbinding; the freedom from whatever binds you. Once these bindings are totally overcome, a state of bliss is achieved and there is no longer the need for the cycle of birth and death. All karmic debts are settled.

I was unaware that there were that many types of Buddhism and meditations. This course will help me in my walk as a minister. I have a better understand of the Buddha and his religion. I can say that I have truly learned form this course and I highly recommend it.

Blessings to you all,

Rev. Nancy Rutledge

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The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

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Buddhism Course

Final Essay for Master of Buddhism Course

By Raymond Cortez

In this course there are many things that I have learned.  In addition, there are some things that I liked and disliked as well.  I will begin my essay by highlighting what I have enjoyed about the formatting of the course, as well as by touching on something about the course that I did not like.  I will then discuss what I have learned in this course concerning Buddhism as a philosophical viewpoint as well as a religious belief system.  In addition, I will also briefly discuss how I have begun to apply what I have learned in this course to my everyday experiences. 

There are a few things that stand out to me when considering what I liked about the presentation and formatting of this course.  To begin with, I enjoyed the breadth and depth of the lessons.  The lessons not only went in depth into the various concepts and tenants concerning Buddhism, they also covered a host of other issues that increased the breadth of information that was covered.  From a historical perspective on the life of Siddhartha and the development of Buddhism, to the belief structure and tenants involved with this philosophical and religious viewpoint, the information provided was vast and in-depth.  I also liked how each lesson was easily accessible and understandable.  This type of material is often presented in dense and unattainable metaphorical conceptualizations, wordings, descriptions, and definitions.  The lessons in this course were written in an easily understandable fashion, and the examples provided were rich and ample in their
descriptive quality.  I believe that the formatting of the course adds to the practicality of learning such in-depth philosophical and religious aspects of Buddhism and I enjoyed reading the lessons at my own pace and comfort.

There was, however, something that I felt this course was lacking.  I believe that future students might benefit from face to face meetings with other students during this course.  I do understand the purpose behind the online formatting of a course such as this.  However, it is often difficult to get multiple perspectives and conceptualizations of the study material when there is no one else to which you can compare and contrast ideas and understandings.  I think that online chat rooms might be helpful for this purpose.  Nevertheless, I still feel that I learned much from this course and I still did enjoy the fact that I could work through the lessons at my own pace.     

Considering all that I have learned about Buddhism from the material provided, I would like to focus on what I feel were the most important points for me.  First, as an individual that has committed himself to studying the path of Buddhism, I have learned that I can take “refuge” in the Three Jewels:

1.    I go to Buddha for refuge
2.    I go to Dharma for refuge
3.    I go to Sangha for refuge

When I consider the standard definition of the term of “refuge” it fits nicely with conceptualizing the path that an individual follows when studying Buddhism.  At times this is an individual journey.  A person attempts to shelter his/herself from a life of worry, desire, and suffering by encompassing his/herself with the first jewel – Buddha.  However, this individual should not look to Buddha for the answers – the answers lie along that individual’s personal path.  When following this path this individual can also feel comfort in knowing that there are some teachings to guide this journey in the second jewel – the Dharma.  Thus, in living one’s life utilizing a set of disciplines and tools meant to accompany you along this path of transformation, there are often times we will be alone.  However, there also are times when we all take refuge together in the third jewel – the Sangha.  As one community, many individuals come together along
the same path.  In addition, considering that difficulties will arise throughout my path toward enlightenment, I am comforted to know that the Three Jewels together will be there for me, as well as others along this same path of transformation. 

Second, one of the important tenants of Buddhism that I have learned and have applied to my everyday life consists of the Four Noble Truths:

1.      All life is suffering
2.      The cause of suffering is desire
3.      The end of desire leads to the end of suffering
4.      The way to end desire, and hence to end suffering, is to follow the Eightfold Path

When using the Four Noble Truths in my everyday life, I see that my expectations can often lead to regret, shame, blame, disappointment, and many other feelings that I would describe as unpleasant.  Moreover, other people might agree that the feelings related to an unexpected outcome are a form of personal suffering, whether emotional, physical, or psychological.  Considering that all life is suffering, this connects nicely to the next noble truth that “desire” is the cause of all suffering.  Thus, because of our desire for specific outcomes in our lives, unexpected outcomes lead to a form of personal suffering.  Once we detach ourselves from our expectations, we begin to detach from personal desire.  This then leads to the end, or transformation, of suffering.  In my personal life, I have begun to detach from all expected and desired outcomes in any situation that I encounter.  This has been a very freeing and empowering experience.  However, in
order to complete this work, one must follow and apply the Eightfold Path in their everyday life as well. 

Finally, another important thing that I learned in this course concerns the concept of Karma.  Moreover, there is an important distinction to be made between the practicality of Karma, and a westernized conceptualization of Karma.  The concept of Karma is often misunderstood according to a westernized viewpoint.  Being from a westernized population, I have experienced many different misconceptions of the concept of Karma that never quite made practical sense to me personally.  In this course, I was delighted to learn that all of these previous encounters with the concept of Karma were off the mark.  I now understand Karma not from a deterministic viewpoint that presupposes that all experiences are determined prior to their current existence.  I now understand that Karma can be thought of as a choice that we make from moment to moment.  We can choose to control Karma or let Karma control us.  We can choose our Karmic retribution before hand and by
following the Eightfold Path our intent will determine the outcome.  We can also choose to allow Karma to control us as if predetermined and insurmountable.  With this deterministic viewpoint of Karma, we will never understand its true nature.     

Finally, I think one of the most important things that I have learned in this course concerns the practicality of using Buddhism in my everyday life.  It was very refreshing to learn that once Siddhartha attained “wakefulness”, or enlightenment, his conceptualization of the path to enlightenment appears to be very practical on second look.  I think that people will generally think of the path of Buddhism as a very impractical way to live in our modern society.  That may be if we think of Buddhism as a way of dressing and wearing our hair alone.  However, there is more practicality in the viewpoint of Buddhism than many people will stop to think about.  Mindfulness is the first step to true understanding.  I have learned that Buddhism can serve me everyday of my life through the guiding principles and meditative practices I have learned in this course.

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
 

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Buddhism

Buddhism Course Essay

I have sat down many times now trying to write this essay on the Buddhism course by Tricia Stirling. I haven't been able to adequately put to words the influence that this course has had on my way of looking at life. Am I Buddhist, can I follow the Eight Fold Path? I would have to say no. I have been raised in this materialistic world and have become accustomed to my attachments to those things that make up my life, as I now know it to be.

Two aspects of Buddhism that do speak to me are the Six Perfections and the Four Immeasurables. Metta, Karuna, Mudita and Upekkha are to me four qualities that should be a crucial part of everyone's life and not just a Buddhist thing. If all encounters in life were to be approached with these four thought processes in mind, Loving-kindness, Compassion, Sympathetic joy and Equanimity, there would be little conflict and a lot less pain in our lives and the lives of those around us.

The Six Perfections of Generosity, Ethical behavior, Patience, Joyous effort, Concentration and Wisdom again, if practiced in everyone's daily interactions with everyone they encounter would eliminate conflict, anger and greed. Everyone should be concisely applying these 10 actions, regardless of their particular religious practice and belief system.

Am I ready to abandon all attachments? No, I like my home and truck and guitars. I like my children and wife and food and work and, well it goes on. I am learning though that allowing myself to become upset that I am late to work or the show or whatever I haven't achieved, is counter productive to peace in my life. I am learning that it is not the end of the world if I don't achieve something I was trying for or wanted. I am learning that I will not achieve enlightenment in this lifetime and that is all right. I have many lifetimes ahead to work on that.

I am on a path of enlightenment. Taking this course is one step on that journey. If I can share some of the knowledge that I am gaining in this lifetime with those that I encounter in this lifetime my journey will continue in a positive way. I believe that is where I am right now. Do I have a Buddha in me? Yes and he is guiding me along my journey, steering me in positive directions. I accept that the shortest path to enlightenment is not the best path. I want to enjoy the learning and the sharing and I am enjoying it. Maybe achieving is not the answer. Maybe traveling is.

Thank you Ms. Stirling. I recommend this course to anyone who is mildly interested. It will open up your mind to a different way of approaching your journey through this lifetime.

Rev. Kirk Haas

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more.

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button.We also offer many free wedding ceremonies for your use.

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.

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Buddhism Course

About 10 years ago I developed an interest in Buddhism after studying a number of other religions and spiritual paths. I began practicing meditation and attending classes soon after. As I learned more about Buddhist practice I realized I seemed to naturally fit in with it and it with me and I also realised that this was the path I had been looking for all through my life.

This course, The Master of Buddhist Studies, has helped me gain a more rounded understanding of the many aspects of Buddhism and how being a Buddhist has affected my life making me a more peaceful, relaxed person, more capable of dealing with life and all its difficulties. It has helped to change my view of life as such and reinforced to me the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of doing the right thing from a Karmic perspective.

The study of Buddhism appears to affect many people in a similar way.      “Personally, the practice of Buddhism has affected my life greatly.  I think it has brought me great peace, made me a more understanding and compassionate person.”  Quote from http://www.drbachinese.org/drby/articles/english/article13.htm

Since beginning the course I have been regularly attending activities and began volunteering at our local Mahayana Zen Buddhist temple, Nan Tien. It is a large temple with a number of Chinese Nuns in residence. The temple is in the process of building the first Buddhist University in Australia and will be starting courses there in the near future. Since completing this course of study I have been encouraged to continue to study Buddhism in depth and intend to become a student at the University when it is completed.

During the course it was interesting to learn how Buddhism has changed and evolved to become acceptable to Western cultures while at the same time not changing its fundamental principles. This is clearly seen from a quote as follows:  

“I remember when there usually wasn't one shelf in a bookstore for Buddhism, or even Eastern Spirituality. Back then, there were more Buddhas in America in glass cases in museums (statues) than living beings teaching and practicing the way.  Now, it's accepted in the mainstream.  In fact, a recent poll found one in eight Americans affirming they've heard teachings of the Buddha which they consider of lasting influence in their lives.  That's really interesting.  So people don't have to formally say their Buddhist to appreciate the Buddha, any more than one has to say one is an Einsteinian to accept the theory of relativity.  So even if Buddhism, per se, might never become a mainstream religion in the West, its influence is mainstream”. Gary Gach, author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Buddhism 3rd Edition" http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=25,9219,0,0,1,0

Some of the most important things I have learned from the course are these:

o   Buddhism is a way of life that is to be UNDERSTOOD & PRACTISED.

o   Buddhism is a path to 'awakening' from the delusions of life

o   Buddhism is a way to achieve freedom from suffering.

o   Buddhism can be experienced and practiced with immediate results.

o   Buddhism is not a religion, does not support the view of a Supreme Being, nor is it based on blind faith.

o   Buddhists do not condemn non-believers or non-followers. Anyone is free to study and learn the Dhamma regardless of whether he/she is a Buddhist or not.

In the Dhamma Encyclopedia it is stated that “The Buddhist definition of faith is: Believing with confidence through understanding and wisdom”.

The course has reinforced for me that basically Buddhism is a simple and common sense path. It teaches us to be kind, take care of those around us and generally just be a good person.    

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The Universal Life Church is a comprehensive online seminary where we have classes in Christianity, Wicca, Paganism, two courses in Metaphysics and much more. 

Ordination with the Universal Life Church, is free,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button. 

The  ULC, run by Rev. Long, has created a chaplaincy program to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  I've been ordained with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning and have loved watching the continual growth of the seminary.
 

Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Buddhist Studies

The Buddhism course gave me an appreciation for the universal truth of the Dharma.  I personally see the Dharma as a living entity that exists beyond the boundaries of remembered teaching and as a common reality between potentially opposing philosophies and beliefs.  It is the way of practice and not theory and speculation.  It is the way things are.  I can find it in most of the worlds religions and spiritual teachings as well as in art, poetry, music and works of compassion.  Buddha's journey appears free from attachment to dogmatic views and shows the importance of a personal approach and the avoidance of a non-authoritian perspective.  Some say that because the Buddha found it necessary to leave home and seek enlightenment, his message is that it is only possible to be enlightened if your are a monk.  I disagree!  I see everyone's journey to enlightenment as a personal and autonomous endeavor.  Buddhism is far from external forms.  You don't have to study long and involved scriptures, eat only special kind of food, wear any special clothes, attend a church, chant or even meditate.  Buddha's realistic statements as to the realities of life are explained well in the Four Noble Truths.  Many people appear to advocate a personal existential approach with the attraction being permanent bliss free from suffering.  But the Buddha emphasized that both happy and sad times come to an end and that we suffer by worrying about what we might lose or gain.  This advocates an attitude in me that is open to experience including the awareness of personal attachments that perpetuate suffering.  We all crave sensations of various kinds and if they are pleasurable, we crave their repetition.  What appealed most to me about the course is Zen and it's emphasis on clearing the mind.  As the Buddha put it in the Dhammapada, "everything is based on the mind, is led by the mind, is fashioned by the mind".  In other words, if you speak and act with a polluted mind, suffering will follow you as the wheels of ox cart follow the footsteps of the ox.  If you speak and act with a pure mind, happiness will follow you as a shadow clings to form.  I find that the Zen idea of a polluted mind is quite different from the traditional Christian perspective, which dictates that "impure" thoughts be rooted out and eliminated.  What pollutes the mind in Buddhist view is our desire to get life to conform to our peculiar notion of how things should be as opposed to how they really are.  The point of Zen practice is to make you aware of the thoughts that run your life and diminish their power over you.  One of the fundamental tools for doing that is a form of sitting called "Zazen".  In Zazen practice, concentration comes not from trying hard to focus on something, but from keeping your mind open and directing it at nothing.  Sitting zazen, I learned to trust the moment - to be as mindfully as possible so I could react spontaneously to whatever was taking place. Another aspect of Zen that intruged me was it's emphasis on compassion.  The goal of Zen is not just to clear the mind, but to open the heart as well.  The two are interrelated and I would say that awareness is the seed of compassion.  As we begin to notice ourselves and others, just as we are, without judgment, compassion flows naturally.  When I was a boy, I was caught up in the mental aspects of worship, sort of building a wall in my mind with prayer and quotations from the Bible, that I lost track of the essence of Christianity.  By practicing Zen, I was able to clear my mind of all that interference and look upon my heart again. It is also clear to me that the Buddha recognized the Dharma would be subject to change as all things are.  The teachings of Siddhartha changed as they traveled.  As aspects of the Dharma were emphasized and developed within separate sangas, new schools of were encouraged. As a result of this development, sects were created holding opposing beliefs, some which separated the ordained monks and nuns from the lay people.  Because influences and teachings come from a variety of traditions and countries, it appears to me that we do not have a coherent Western sanga.  In my opinion, what we have instead is a number of sanga's held together with the label "Buddhism".  From this, I'm inspired to think of Western Buddhism as an objective Buddhism developed by observing the many fractions as a whole.  By Rev. Stephen Satonick ******************************************** To ordain yourself with the Universal Life Church, for free, for life, right now, click on the Free Online Ordination link. Rev. Long created the ULC seminary site to help ministers learn and grow their ministries. The Seminary offers a huge catalog of materials for ministers of the Universal Life Church, as well as an online seminary program and a chaplaincy program.