ULC Buddhism Course

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?

A: Like most history, I believe the story of Siddhartha in the years before he became the Buddha to be a mixture of some truths and some legend. Since there was no written history of the Buddha from that time, it is most likely legend. However, I don't believe this matters as much as the message he delivers in his teachings of Buddhism, which is really what is the purpose of embracing Buddhism.

2. What does enlightenment mean to you?

A: Peace within oneself, and compassion for all living things. Being enlightened would mean for this to come to oneself as their true nature, without any thought of action or deed.

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

A: I believe that enlightenment is possible. As enlightenment is unique to the individual, I believe that each enlightened being had achieved this enlightenment in a different way.

John M. Stephenson