Buddhism

Buddhist Studies 1.      What do you think it is about Vajrayana that makes it appeal to so many Westerners? In my opinion it is the possibility that Vajrayana has the potential to achieve enlightenment within one lifetime that lends an appeal to Westerners. 2.      Which of the three paths—Theravada, Mahayana, or Vajrayana, appeals most to you? Why? Mahayana appeals most me, especially the Zen teachings. It resonates with me because generally I like to believe that we are all one entity. Yes, we have many names for things and there is much suffering in this world, but in understanding that I see in all people regardless of religious background an ability to change under pressure. This spiritual dexterity, in my opinion is frequently put to the test during crisis through which we as a sentient species constantly rise to a higher vibration causing spiritual revolution. To me the Creator is a loving god and gives us the ability to realize our desires for peace and understanding. In other ways the Creator appears to be cruel, but to me that is just His way of teaching people things and through the process of discovery this is how we unify and support each other. Mother Earth sustains us and asks little in return but we continually abuse Her and profane Her without the respect and dedication that we use the names of the other deities, or the way in which we revere Her. It is my belief that as the 14th Dali Lama said, it is possible to be of one faith and practice the rites of another as well, that we don't give ourselves enough credit for our abilities. Whether one views these concepts through the Christian Holy Trinity, the enlightening of the Buddha or another other spiritual vehicle it is always possible to reach someone who is lost. That is why I firmly believe in the universal salvation we are offered in whatever mood it is delivered to us. I myself know that it is possible to fall very far from the pinnacle of goodly existence and still be given the opportunity to ground myself, center myself, love myself and more importantly light a path for others. I was always told I could do anything and that with my smarts I have the ability to be what I want to be, it is only now after I searched myself and considered the calling I've been given that I realize I always wanted to be a Priest but was too cowardly to accept the mantle. Now that He has called me I live for Him and to make others realize we can live in peace. Gnostic, atheist or whatever disbelievers call themselves they are always willing to consider the idea of a Higher Power which gives them a method to live on eternally if only in their works. My view is that The Creator gives them this methodology as a means of understanding Him directly and in it's way becomes another religion. Mahayana resonates with me because it is structured but not too much so, doesn't involve having to travel to Asia to assimilate and offers a set of rituals that when properly performed provide a great deal of emotional relief and spiritual clarity through understanding the totality of the divine. 3.      Are there practices in Vajrayana which could be beneficial to all sentient beings? If so, which ones? The entire concept of shedding oneself of imperfections is very beneficial. If it were possible to completely bring this sect temples, teachers and all all around to world and not too much of it's secrets made common knowledge it has serious potential to stand up and give Buddhism global presence. Keeping a secret is also a virtue that many of us should learn. I fear however that over time Vajrayana might become diluted as secrets are made too popular and that if it is followed improperly it has the potential to develop a seriously flawed offshoot. That said, what do I know of Vayrayana? I am merely a student with limited exposure to it. Rev. Scott Luxon ******************** The Universal Life Church, is free place to become ordained,  and lasts for life, so use the Free Online Ordination, button to get started today.

Buddhism

The Buddha is said to offer 84,000 categories of teachings to present them in twenty weeks in their historical and their practice context in a concise overview manner is a daunting task indeed. The course while not an in depth teaching of Buddhism succeeded in giving a good secular view of Buddhism. The questions asked could be better formulated and many of the references could be updated, some of the suggested reading was out of print. The Buddha teaches us how to overcome suffering with The Four Noble Truths and it is the basis for all of the rest of his teachings. Better than just solving the problems others he gives them the tools to solve their own problems and end their suffering. he teaches us we must be our own savior. Through out the years of religious study I have come to believe that all religions are talking about the same experience and that which is unthinkable and unspeakable is the same for all. The conflict which arises is when we conceptually fabricate an explanation and rely on the words of others rather than experience for ourselves the great wonder of creation. The Buddha was a guide to the path of self exploration and knowledge in order to end ones own suffering. The method he used was meditation. The simplest and most effective way to experience this is simple. Seek seclusion Sit Still Be quiet All that can be known will be revealed, since we are that which we seek. On November 15th I will enter a two month retreat and upon completion I will then begin a three year three month retreat at the Garchen Buddhist Institute in Chino Valley, Arizona. Thank you Rev. Mark for your moderation and thank you Rev. Amy for all the hard work that you have done. Many Blessings and Prayers Rev. Don Bowes aka Konchog Jimpa a Drikung Kagyu monk. ******************************************** To ordain yourself with the Universal Life Church, for Free, for Life, right now, use the Free Online Ordination, button -- Click the link! As a long time member of ULC, Rev. Long created the seminary site to help train our ministers. We also have a huge catalog of Universal Life Church materials.  As an ordained minister with the Universal Life Church for many years and it's Seminary since the beginning, I've enjoyed watching the continual growth of the seminary. Try our new free toolbar at: ULC Toolbar

Buddhism Course

Master of Buddhism Course Wk1 assignment

Thank you for the information and thought provoking questions. I am searching the library for the books suggested, but have found many resources on line also. I have considered myself a student of Thich Nhat Hanh, though not a daily one. :)

Here are my answers for Week 1.

Questions

1. Does the story of Siddhartha Guatama, particularly in the years before he became the Buddha, ring true? Is it legend or hearsay? Does it matter?

When considering the life of Siddhartha Guatama it would seem that most would be true, but then there are those that have added embellishments of his latter part of the journey. The story of temptation is similar to that of Jesus. The trials sent by Mara to trouble Siddhartha would seem most likely that of myth. As would the story of Angulimala who could not catch Siddhartha. A myth created to emphasize the power of enlightenment. But from all writing there is a basis of truth, one that brings the reader to look within for self-enlightenment. Reading the legends, myths, stories, truthful tales, only serves to provide me with the hope of enlightenment. It really does not matter if it is truth or fiction, there is truth in both.


2. What does enlightenment mean to you?

Enlightenment is that state of mind where one can hear the truth. Discerning from lies and truth is difficult when living in the world, living for gain. Enlightenment is the result of allowing self to live the spiritual path, learning to listen to self, understanding motivations, hunger, desires, and of others. When enlightened there is no temptation, no stress, or need to worry. Each event is the result of personal choices.


3. Do you believe that enlightenment is possible? Is there more than one way to be enlightened? If so, what?

I do believe that enlightenment is very possible. Easy? Not particularly, especially when one is trained to live in the world, seeking material gain, and not living as the spiritual being we each are. I cannot think of any other way to become enlightened except to seek within, quieting the mind and recognizing a life time of training to react and fear. Through understanding the truth of self, of being human, the life of training, one may gain an enlightened way of life. 

--

Connie 

A Spiritual Paradigm

Office Wife

619-663-1089 24 hour Voice Mail: Please leave a message.

Peace be with you.

Buddhism Online Course

Questions on Lesson 5

    1. Is the idea of karma uplifting or unsettling? Why?

If one is following the Precepts, living in the present moment, cultivating compassion, there is nothing unsettling about Karma...it may be, in fact, comforting.  On the other hand, if one is haphazard in one's practice...hangs on to malice and negativity, is lacking in compassion...one probably SHOULD - in the natural order - be rattled, but "being rattled" is more than likely not part of one's consciousness.  That, however, does not mean that Karma will not have it's way.  Thank of Christ's parable of the seed.

    2. Do you know anyone who exists in any or each of the symbolic worlds?

I surely know people that exist in each of the symbolic worlds.  I am most aware of the hungry ghosts, particularly in our current culture.  I am surrounded by people searching for fulfillment and spiritual nourishment, totally oblivious to the simple antidote...practicing compassion, doing good...always doing that which is right!

    3. How do the symbolic six worlds differ philosophically from our Western concepts of Heaven and Hell?

In not expounding upon the simple concept of cause and affect...sowing and reaping...energy attracting like energy...good and evil...reward and punishment.  I don't think there is a human being who hasn't been exposed from the cradle, experientially or by being taught, to this basic concept of living in this world...this question is addressed most fully. 

Ronald
Jose Morelos No. 76
Tangancicuaro 59750 Michoacan Mexico
Tel: U.S.A. ~ 775-378-5107‏
Home; (011-52 from USA) + 355-553-5618
Cellular: 351-548-8456
Skype:  ronald.james.gilbertson

ULC Buddism

Answers to questions for Week 4

1.      Why do you think Buddhism resonated so deeply with so many kings and rulers?

Buddhism resonated with kings and rulers because it brought them out of the horrendous, unmerciful and bloody conflict addicted political atmosphere...from the warring power grabs into a hope for a more compassionate world, where communities could dwell in harmony with all life and, hopefully, with each other.

    2.      What elements were necessary for the spread of Buddhism?

The teachings of the Buddha...the Dharma, emanating from the local monastic communities, the Sabghas, sanctioned by the local civil leadership were crucial to Buddhism spreading across continents,


    3.      What, if anything, could rulers of today's world learn from the dharma?

That there is a pathway out of suffering.  That all living beings are connected through their societal structures...that good for one is good for all; bad for one is bad for all.  One could relate this to the Christian concept  that the entire world and all living on it, are the "body of Christ."
    

Ronald
Jose Morelos No. 76
Tangancicuaro 59750 Michoacan Mexico
Tel: U.S.A. ~ 775-378-5107‏
Home; (011-52 from USA) + 355-553-5618
Cellular: 351-548-8456
Skype:  ronald.james.gilbertson

Buddhism

The course taught me a lot about my chosen path, especially about the history.  In the 20 lessons it covers, most aspects are covered well.

"Buddhism is not a religion about doctrines or rituals,it is a religion about practice and enlightenment. Enlightenment is not about some type of trance or out of body experience(or salvation,my note), it is about being able to preform your daily tasks with understanding, loving kindness, compassion, and non violence."

Hermano Luis

Morivivi

Hermatage

Buddhism is also a philosophy.It is a way of life without a set dogma and with a set of guidelines to help us in life(this one and the next).One of the ways i have learned this is the 5 contemplations:

1.Old age will come;i have not outstripped old age.

2.Disease will come; I have not outstripped disease.

3.Death will come; I have not outstripped death.

4.All things near and dear to me are subject to alteration;subject to separation.

5.I am the result of my own deeds;whatever deed I do,skilled or unskilled, good or bad, I shall become heir to.

When this is taken in light with the 4 noble truths:1.  All life is suffering.

2.The cause of suffering is desire.

3.Suffering can be ended.

4.The way to end suffering is the 8 fold path. and the teachings of the 8 fold path,one begins to understand the teachings of the Buddha.

Buddhism as a philosophy also teaches us that if we become attached to the concept of"self",we cause suffering;not only for ourselves,but those around us.  Many (buddhist and non buddhist alike)misunderstand this.It is not a teaching of nothingness or non existence,but a teaching o whatever we do affects all.

The chant(prayer if you prefer):

"I go to the buddha for refuge"

"I go to the Dharma for refuge"

"I go to the Sangha for refuge"

sums this up.

We recognize that the historical Buddha(Siddhartha Gautama)was the first(that we know of)teacher who attained enlightenment and we strive to do the same.

When we take refuge in the Dharma,we are saying we choose to follow the teachings of the Buddha,and all who come after him,on our path to enlightenment.

To take refuge in the Sangha means to accept and understand that we are all part of a community at large(the world),therefore all actions affect the whole,now and later.

There is much more to this than i can or have covered here.To learn it

all would take more than one lifetime.

I leave with this quote:"Do not use what you learn about Buddhism to be

a better Buddhist.Use it to become a better what you already are"

the 14th Dali Lama

well amy,here it is.not a true masters discertation,but thankfully not

requried(i would probably never have gotten it done).if it meets with

your approval,i will post same to the board(without the personal

comments).if you feel it needs any changes,please feel free to note them and i

will do so.

my address is:

Mark A Lightfoot

*******************************

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Answers to question for Week 3

Questions

1.      Could the fact that the Dharma wasn't written by the Buddha himself be problematic?   If so, in what ways?
The fact that the Dharma was not written by the Buddha himself is not problematic in that at the heart of the Dharma...the foundation and soul of the Dharma are THE THREE JEWELS.   These precepts are clear enough and basic enough to leave no space for misinterpretation or misapplication.

2.      Imagine you are preparing to go for refuge. What necessary changes would you need to make in your life first?
To one who is seeking to become enlightened, taking refuge means a continuing commitment to pursuing enlightenment and following in the footsteps of those who have already achieved it. It contains an element of confidence that enlightenment is real, and that it is in fact a refuge
 Along with taking refuge, many make a commitment to abide by certain precepts, namely:
        ·Do not kill
        ·Do not steal
        ·Do not engage in sexual misconduct
        ·Do not lie
        ·Do not abuse intoxicants
        ·Do not speak of others' errors and faults
        ·Do not elevate yourself and blame others
        ·Do not be stingy
        ·Do not give vent to anger
        ·Do not defile the Three Jewels of Refuge
        ·Do not create evil
        ·Practice good
        ·Actualize good for others

3.      When going for refuge, are you relying on forces outside of yourself for peace of mind, or are the Three Jewels ultimately found inside yourself?
The 3 Jewels are only found within oneself.


Ronald
Jose Morelos No. 76
Tangancicuaro 59750 Michoacan Mexico
Tel: U.S.A. ~ 775-378-5107‏
Home; (011-52 from USA) + 355-553-5618
Cellular: 351-548-8456
Skype:  ronald.james.gilbertson

Lesson six Master of Buddhism

PLease see attached Lesson Six in this series.

Best wishes

Terry.

P.S. I am enjoying the course and the teachings.

Fw: Questions lesson 5

See email for lesson five.

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: terry beverton <terrybeverton@yahoo.co.uk>
To: "ulcseminarycourses.buddhism@blogger.com" <ulcseminarycourses.buddhism@blogger.com>
Sent: Sunday, 27 November 2011, 13:18
Subject: Questions lesson 5

Please see attached answers to lesson 5.

Best wishes

Terry.