Buddhism Week Thirteen
Exercise:
1. What do you think it is about Vajrayana that makes it appeal to so many Westerners?
Western people, like all people, have a leaning toward ceremony and rites in order to establish meaning in their lives.
Rituals are important because it binds culture with daily life - gives it meaning and importance. Vajrayana has many
rites and rituals that appeal to people; there are colourful clothes, exotic sounds and smells, and the air of mystic
knowledge. It is Buddhism mixed with shamanism - a very potent mixture! The appeal of Eastern wisdom coupled with
mystic rites is irresistible to many people.
2. Which of the three paths—Theravada, Mahayana, or Vajrayana, appeals most to you? Why?
Personally, Mahayana is the most appealing branch of the three. Not being one for supernatural explanations, I shy away
from Vajrayana. However, being very interested in symbolism, Mahayana strikes a cord with my sensibilities. I am
particularly enamoured with such sutras as the Lotus Sutra which is filled with rich images of symbolism and meaning.
3. Are there practices in Vajrayana which could be beneficial to all sentient beings? If so, which ones?
Many aspects of this practice may be beneficial to all beings; Yogic practices and tantric practices are obvious
choices. Yogic practice may allow one to understand them self as a buddha, fully complete and fully formed. This may
have a huge impact on one's esteem and perception of the world. Tantric practices, such as mantras, allow people to
become more grounded and connected with rituals that impact on daily activities. It may allow a person to believe that
their practice is strong.
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