Master of Buddhism - Lesson 5

Questions
1. Is the idea of karma uplifting or unsettling? Why?

Knowing about karma and how it works can be nothing but uplifting. It is the idea that one may escape their suffering
is something that gives us hope. Once a person is aware of how karma operates, one can take specific steps to lesson,
even reverse, the impact on past actions. This may take some thought and a lot of work, but it a reason for joy. Even if
one is initially unsettled by the idea that they may be trapped in some negative outcome, one can eventually understand
how to escape the cycle.

2. Do you know anyone who exists in any or each of the symbolic worlds?

We all exist in all of these worlds continuously. These are transitory states that we cycle through. Perhaps we're in a
state of despair (Hell Being) and it takes us many years to receive the impact of past actions (big debt, lost your job,
for example). But maybe we get a good, steady job and begin repaying our debts (Anti God). But let's say that we desire
companionship so badly we become desperate for social company (Hungry Ghost) and we end up regretting a one-night stand
(Animal). This is how these states works; we continually cycle through each one on a roller-coaster ride. The awareness
of the workings of karma can help us to slow and eventually stop the fast-paced ride and stabilize our life.

3. How do the symbolic six worlds differ philosophically from our Western concepts of Heaven and Hell?

The six worlds theory is a much more practical concept to work with. It recognizes that all of us are up and down, and
that most often we are dependent on life circumstance to dictate our state. The Western idea is a more totalitarian
concept of punishment and reward. For many it can be a frightening idea that one will be struck down and denied an
eternal reward at the end of one's life. The Western concept, although it allows one to correct your past, doesn't allow
for slip-ups or mistakes. Whereas the Six Worlds theory takes into account that we're all human and will make mistakes
from time to time.