Master of Buddhism Course

This is a blog for the course comments from the Master of Buddhism course through the Universal Life Church Seminary.
The course can be found at Buddhism Course.

Monday, July 30, 2012

ULC Buddhism Course Lesson 2

1. Which of these guidelines do you think is the most important? Why?

Right mindfulness would be the first building block to all other actions. One must find a place within thought that is free of hate, self-recrimination, and anger. Anger, hate, and negative ideas, lead to wrong action, wrong words, mistreatment of self and others. With right mindfulness one can lead a peaceful existence with no harm to none, beginning with self. Hate and anger are the worst enemies of any human being, causing illness and one to be shunned. Those who ban together in anger cannot be trusted. Developing a mind of peace is the correct path to all else.

2. What is the unifying concept of these guidelines?

Living in peace. Through peaceful living one will wish to serve others, to carry a message of peace, love and well being. People who are at peace are like magnets, others are drawn to them and walk away feeling good. To live in peace equates to love, doing that which is right, and serving human kind.

3. What do you think the Buddha would have to say today about "Right Livelihood?" Can you think of any positions in today's workforce that he might use as an activity one should avoid?

The Eightfold Path is the culmination of Right Livelihood. A wage earned through service, no harm, and providing products that enlighten and further health is Right Livelihood. Though some would feel that this would include butchers and hunters. 
 
Workplace activity that Buddha would wish one would avoid? Several come to mind, but following the Eightfold path, as stated butchers, hunters, and farmers who raise animals for food.

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