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
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