Master of Buddhism Lesson 5

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

I would think that karma could be both uplifting and unsettling depending on ones perspective or way of thinking. Since the idea that all of our actions can result in either a bad or a good outcome; not only in our own lives but the lives of every thing including: people, trees, animals, insects, and a myriad of other things – bad choices will result in bad karma and good choices will result in good karma. In other words, everything is interconnected on some macro or micro level. All of what are to be, what comes our way, and so on will be the direct end result of karma or cause and effect. So to say it could be uplifting is because it gives one hope that enough karma will bring suffering closer to an end and draw in more happiness in oneself and the the things which surround us. As far as being unsettling, I think many people find that no matter what they do, their path can not change because of karma. That is, the motions of cause and effect can not be changed once they are set in motion. They feel they are doomed to the wheels they have set in motion. When in fact karma is all about change. And until they can realize that, the uneasy feeling of not being in control of their own lives will always be there.

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

I would say that everyone falls into the symbolical worlds. I see them as a description of what happens when we fall into the trappings of of each of them. I think the symbolic worlds show us that to know they exist is to know they can be changed or transformed. I know people who crave things, people who are miserable because they can't be on top forever, or even the mean person who is always stuck in a "rut."

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

I believe in the Buddhist concept of the six worlds, we have a chance to change or escape from any of these personal cells we have put ourselves in. With Buddhism there is always a chance to end suffering and reach nirvana. Whereas the Western concepts of Heaven and Hell are quite black and white for the most part. Obviously it differs from religion to religion but the underlying concept seems to be the same. That is, you do good and abide by "God's laws" and you will go to heaven. You do bad and turn away from god's laws and it's off the fiery pit. Unless you can repent and such before the end. If not - no return. I suppose on some level here the idea of redemption can be applied to both, however, with Buddhism you are really being redeeming to yourself and those around you and not to a god.