Master of Buddhism Lesson 3

1.     Could the fact that the Dharma wasn't written by the Buddha himself be problematic? If so, in what ways?

I would think that the Dharma could be problematic since it wasn't written by the Buddha. One simple reason could be a biased interpretation. For example, a person who wrote down what they were taught could alter the actual meaning to fit some other agenda or belief of the time. Think of how many things we are taught or told and don't necessarily think they are the best for us, so we decide to choose a different path. Or perhaps some of the Buddha's teachings may not have been fully remembered and some things may have been replaced with what "fit: best to fill in the gaps. However, having said this, I still feel it is up to the individual on the path to figure out for him or herself if what they are presented with works or makes sense for them to attain at least some closeness to being enlightened. I believe this is why the teachings include the Three Jewels or scenarios in which to acquire guidance.

2.      Imagine you are preparing to go for refuge. What necessary changes would you need to make in your life first?

I think one of the most important changes would have to be time or giving up things to be able to go for refuge. What I mean by this is: there are many things in our lives we could easily do away with to make room for a better mental state or awareness. For example, too much time with television, movies, computers, cellphones, drinking, or whatever temporarily preoccupies one from their suffering. I think when certain distractions are removed, refuge would be much easier to take in.

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?

I think initially one would seek out refuge because they are in need of guidance from a more experienced or advanced source of wisdom from where they currently believe they are at. It is the basic function of learning. I do believe in the end however, what we take from the three Jewels and how we use it to transform us is all within ourselves. As long as we remain open to teachings and lessons so that we can continue to transform our suffering and not dismiss what conflicts with our current beliefs and biases – the Three Jewels will continue to influence us and we will nurture them as they do us.