Buddhism Discussion

[Guest White Lotus]

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

[OneTwoFunk]

2 hours ago, Guest White Lotus said:

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

From a buddhist point of view, there is no greater purpose than seeking out the fundamentals of happiness (that don't lie within samsara) because we will constantly be reincarnated into Samsara otherwise.

[Steve5380]

On 9/25/2023 at 11:35 AM, Guest White Lotus said:

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

 

There may not be a purpose of life.   The concept of "purpose" is a fabrication of living creatures like us.  So much that exist in this world simply IS.  We cannot identify the purpose of the Universe, or of our solar system.  Yet, we insignificant creatures should have a PURPOSE?   So, instead of breaking our heads trying to find purpose, what if we just simply LIVE?

 

On 9/25/2023 at 2:19 PM, OneTwoFunk said:

From a buddhist point of view, there is no greater purpose than seeking out the fundamentals of happiness (that don't lie within samsara) because we will constantly be reincarnated into Samsara otherwise.

 

This sounds very profound,  like the purpose of us Catholics to "glorify God".  I always wondered about this:  has God created us for his glorification?   Isn't this some self-gratification?  I like much more the Buddhist idea that the purpose of life is to seek extraterrestrial happiness.  And however... what is the purpose of eternal happiness ???   🤪😋

[Guest poxster]

On 9/26/2023 at 12:35 AM, Guest White Lotus said:

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

@Steve5380's explanation feels more taoist, though if i'm not wrong, buddha feels that big questions like the purpose of life is meaningless because there is no one satisfactory answer and so he avoids delving into them. instead he focuses on teaching people the way to escape from samsara.

 

12 minutes ago, Steve5380 said:

This sounds very profound,  like the purpose of us Catholics to "glorify God".  I always wondered about this:  has God created us for his glorification?   Isn't this some self-gratification?  I like much more the Buddhist idea that the purpose of life is to seek extraterrestrial happiness.  And however... what is the purpose of eternal happiness ???   🤪😋

and i would say the state buddhists strive for is not happiness, more bliss, i suppose. but even then, it is not bliss. the ultimate state cannot be described by any words we understand in this world here. and i think @Steve5380 also touched on what zen buddhists also believe about how the striving for nibbana is also itself a desire, a clinging-on to something, which becomes an obstacle to attaining nibban itself.

[Steve5380]

8 minutes ago, poxster said:

 

and i would say the state buddhists strive for is not happiness, more bliss, i suppose. but even then, it is not bliss. the ultimate state cannot be described by any words we understand in this world here. and i think @Steve5380 also touched on what zen buddhists also believe about how the striving for nibbana is also itself a desire, a clinging-on to something, which becomes an obstacle to attaining nibban itself.

 

 

I like the way you interpreted what I wrote.  It comes with an acceptance of our ignorance, but it goes a little beyond.  In my experience, I find that when we are getting old, a vision opens into true nibbana,  a detachment from the need of purpose and a contentment with simply TO BE, and whatever this means is fine.  This idea is more elegant than to think that our death is a return to nothing,  and it may help explain why the stage in life of being old is something desirable.

 

[Guest Living n existence]

On 9/26/2023 at 12:35 AM, Guest White Lotus said:

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

The purpose of life is to procreate before your passing so that human remain relevant on earth.  As for the gay people, enjoy your existence and that's that. 

 

Straight people live with purpose. Gay people simply exist to find their own purpose.

[Steve5380]

18 hours ago, Guest Living n existence said:

The purpose of life is to procreate before your passing so that human remain relevant on earth.  As for the gay people, enjoy your existence and that's that. 

 

Straight people live with purpose. Gay people simply exist to find their own purpose.

 

You paint the gay community as too selfish.  There are among us individuals who care about society and make great contributions to it,  while most straights don't procreate to keep humanity relevant on earth  but because they love to fuck pussies.

[Guest Living n existence]

6 hours ago, Steve5380 said:

 

You paint the gay community as too selfish.  There are among us individuals who care about society and make great contributions to it,  while most straights don't procreate to keep humanity relevant on earth  but because they love to fuck pussies.

Where did i mention "gay being selfish" in my comment?  You are putting words into my mouth.  I was saying, gay could not procreate and thus  exist to find their own purpose which could mean many things including contributing to society, enjoying quiet life and many things under the sun.  In order for straight people to procreate, they must love to fuck pussies, otherwise how else do procreation came about?  Not that many people have the money to do surrogate or adopt a child like you did.  Did you?

[Steve5380]

1 hour ago, Guest Living n existence said:

 

In order for straight people to procreate, they must love to fuck pussies, otherwise how else do procreation came about?  Not that many people have the money to do surrogate or adopt a child like you did.  Did you?

 

 

I am gay and I did procreate.  And I don't love pussies.  If you want to make a child, the likeness of pussy or not is not such a big obstacle.  

 

And I still find that your phrase "Straight people live with purpose. Gay people simply exist to find their own purpose." makes a distinction that is not real.   It can imply that gay people don't live with purpose, which is false.

[Guest poxster]

putting aside both your own convictions, the purpose of life in according to the buddha is to get the fuck out of samsara. because life is but an illusion and source of dukkha, and thus not desirable. everything we do in life should be to cultivate oneself so as to prepare our journey towards nibbana.

 

just to put everyone back on track to topic.

[Steve5380]

4 hours ago, poxster said:

putting aside both your own convictions, the purpose of life in according to the buddha is to get the fuck out of samsara. because life is but an illusion and source of dukkha, and thus not desirable. everything we do in life should be to cultivate oneself so as to prepare our journey towards nibbana.

 

just to put everyone back on track to topic.

 

Yes, there is a lot of illusion in life.  But it is also the best reality we know.  How can we think that it is pure illusion if we don't know any more solid reality?  Or is it all speculation ???

 

What is true is that we should cultivate ourselves so as to optimize our journey throughout this life, at least.  But it should not be everything we do in life.   

[Guest poxster]

2 minutes ago, Steve5380 said:

 

Yes, there is a lot of illusion in life.  But it is also the best reality we know.  How can we think that it is pure illusion if we don't know any more solid reality?  Or is it all speculation ???

 

What is true is that we should cultivate ourselves so as to optimize our journey throughout this life, at least.  But it should not be everything we do in life.   

hmm i don't know if you've missed the header, this is a thread for buddhist discussion. as much as you have your own beliefs, i'm not sure if you're appreciating or even respecting how buddhists view the world.

 

there is a reason buddha didn't want to teach in the first place...

[Steve5380]

3 hours ago, poxster said:

hmm i don't know if you've missed the header, this is a thread for buddhist discussion. as much as you have your own beliefs, i'm not sure if you're appreciating or even respecting how buddhists view the world.

 

there is a reason buddha didn't want to teach in the first place...

 

The Buddha never stated that his teachings were reserved for Asians or Singaporeans.  His teachings were for all humanity.

 

As a member of humanity,  I have a perfect right to 1- like his teachings  2- interpret them 3- comment on them. 

[Guest Exhaustion]

13 hours ago, Steve5380 said:

As a member of humanity,  I have a perfect right to 1- like his teachings  2- interpret them 3- comment on them. 

While you have every right to appreciate Buddhist teachings, are we really prepared to interpret or offer commentary on it? After practicing Buddhism for almost half of my life, I still have more questions than answers. Having seen how some people behaved in public, I don't even know how to understand Buddhism anymore.   Are they still applicable to today's reality, or are they just philosophical parenting meant to soothe a hurt heart rather than to elicit civility? Forget about heaven and hell or other spiritual element associated to Buddhism.  Let's talk about people—the real people who identify as Buddhists or ardent followers of other religions. Finding an elusive bit of virtue in their souls will be difficult if you strip them completely.  Simply put, I am tired bringing them up in my book.

[Ironrod]

On 9/30/2023 at 9:05 AM, Guest Living n existence said:

The purpose of life is to procreate before your passing so that human remain relevant on earth.  As for the gay people, enjoy your existence and that's that. 

 

Straight people live with purpose. Gay people simply exist to find their own purpose.

 

"Life is Suffering" - Life is a cycle of Birth, Old, Sick and Death. As a human u will experience these 4 physical suffering then 4 emotional suffering which is sorrow and lamentation, pain, grief, and despair are suffering; association with the unpleasant is suffering; dissociation from the pleasant is suffering; not to get what one wants is ...suffering.

 

Only those believe in the concept of GOD thinks we live to procreate while Buddhist never stress on that because the creation of life will never cease as long as desire exist. There is no need to encourage , there is no need to praise - Karma will push you to your own path. Why some are born to suffer more then others? Ignorance, craving, not understanding impermanent will make you suffer. You think just because you are enjoying today, you will be enjoying for life? Today you may be surrounded by your kids and wife but eventually one by one they will leave you and you will suffer. If you are lucky, u will die first and what? Does that meant your existence is more noble? Nope. Gays or Straight doesn't matter. It's just different type of suffering you will experience. 

 

Not understanding Buddhism will ensure that.

Edited October 2, 2023 by Ironrod

[Steve5380]

4 hours ago, Guest Exhaustion said:

 

While you have every right to appreciate Buddhist teachings, are we really prepared to interpret or offer commentary on it? After practicing Buddhism for almost half of my life, I still have more questions than answers. 

 

 

I agree.  And I also have more questions than answers.  After a long life I am resigned to never find an answer to my questions, and this can lead to peace.

 

1 hour ago, Ironrod said:

 

"Life is Suffering" - Life is a cycle of Birth, Old, Sick and Death. As a human u will experience these 4 physical suffering then 4 emotional suffering which is sorrow and lamentation, pain, grief, and despair are suffering; association with the unpleasant is suffering; dissociation from the pleasant is suffering; not to get what one wants is ...suffering.

 

 

Yes, life is suffering...  and much more.  I find that Buddhism is a good philosophy,  the same as Christ's philosophy.  These we can appreciate without a need to be religious.

[Ironrod]

1 hour ago, Steve5380 said:

Yes, life is suffering...  and much more.  I find that Buddhism is a good philosophy,  the same as Christ's philosophy.  These we can appreciate without a need to be religious.

 

@Steve5380 I hope you stop misleading ppl with your generic and general knowledge abt Buddhism. Like all religion, Buddhism also requires conviction to go beyond. It as a philosophy is merely touching the skin of Buddha's teaching. Even if you understand the 4 noble truth, you still need to uphold the 5 precepts, walk the 8 fold path, finally make the vow that Give Rise to the Bodhi Mind (发菩提心). It's not just all talk but its all practice through action of chanting, meditation and deeds. All of us are stuck in this Samsara and talking about it will get us no where. 

 

I will end with this link - http://www.buddhanet.net/cbp1_f3.htm 

 

Why we practice Buddhism, all of us have our reasons but remember only human beings can learn from the Buddha’s example. Only human experience both suffering and joy enough to understand the truth. 

[Guest Thio Boh?]

How is it possible to understand and discuss Buddhism in its entirety if one is not a fully ordained monk? It is easier to sip a cup of hot water and talk about Buddhism instead of soaking one's entire body in in the heat...and then, only then the fulll force of Buddhism can be understdood fully. 

[Steve5380]

17 hours ago, Guest Thio Boh? said:

How is it possible to understand and discuss Buddhism in its entirety if one is not a fully ordained monk? It is easier to sip a cup of hot water and talk about Buddhism instead of soaking one's entire body in in the heat...and then, only then the fulll force of Buddhism can be understdood fully. 

 

I prefer one hundred times to sip a cup of hot coffee.  And you should be welcomed to talk about Christianity without having to be a priest,  like we talk about medicine without having to be a doctor.

 

On 10/2/2023 at 8:54 AM, Ironrod said:

 

@Steve5380 I hope you stop misleading ppl with your generic and general knowledge abt Buddhism. Like all religion, Buddhism also requires conviction to go beyond. It as a philosophy is merely touching the skin of Buddha's teaching. Even if you understand the 4 noble truth, you still need to uphold the 5 precepts, walk the 8 fold path, finally make the vow that Give Rise to the Bodhi Mind (发菩提心). It's not just all talk but its all practice through action of chanting, meditation and deeds. All of us are stuck in this Samsara and talking about it will get us no where. 

 

I will end with this link - http://www.buddhanet.net/cbp1_f3.htm 

 

Why we practice Buddhism, all of us have our reasons but remember only human beings can learn from the Buddha’s example. Only human experience both suffering and joy enough to understand the truth. 

 

I never mislead people, except when I make a mistake.  All religions have the potential to be misleading since they don't have any real proof of their doctrines.  But philosophies are not impositions about alleged realities of the world,  but they suggest rules of behavior.  So they don't preach the unknown, but they give guidance on how to behave.

 

Also, I don't believe that our purpose in this life is to leave this "place of suffering"  as soon as possible in favor of a nibbana.   Instead, the purpose may be to live this life to the fullest in the best way we can,  and not worry too much about the why we are alive or the what will happen in an afterlife.

[Guest Fortunate Human Rebirth]

On 9/26/2023 at 12:35 AM, Guest White Lotus said:

If everyone have to die then what is the purpose of life?

 

While you are here as a perfectly abled human being, you have the ability to read and write, and you are endowed with intelligence (not an unsound mind), the place you abide in is not war-torn or primitive with no contact with the outside world or informed views, you enjoy these form of leisures and fulfilments, you have the opportunity to engage in some form of happiness (your happy and comfort moments) and you can recognize that there is SUFFERING - anger, wanting it so badly but not able to possess it, being accused by others, getting old and weak, health is deteriorating, being sick, etc.

 

Thus, by recognizing that there are sufferings you will strive to find out what are the CAUSES that result in your suffering. With the knowing of what causes suffering, you will then want to seek a way out of your suffering, PERMANENTLY. So, Lord Buddha has delivered 84,000 different ways in his teachings just so that we are able to find, seek and, resolve. With that, you engage on the path to liberation.  

 

Sound difficult? It is indeed.

 

Transforming one's mind is never easy. But in this lifetime, you can. You possess this rare and fortunate opportunity to learn, see a little bit of difference in becoming a good human being, and endow yourself with positive actions. The keyword is NOW, don't wait till you are lying on your deathbed or later because impermanent is a sure thing and it can strike anytime.  

 

[Sweetie Pie]

On 10/4/2023 at 2:18 AM, Steve5380 said:

 

I prefer one hundred times to sip a cup of hot coffee.  And you should be welcomed to talk about Christianity without having to be a priest,  like we talk about medicine without having to be a doctor.

 

I wouldn't want to take the chance of following your "medical advice" rather than that of a trained medical professional.  You weren't taught the fundamentals of dispensing medical advice.  You kept advising folks, your age, to twist, fall and throw themselves about.  Buddhism is not for everyone, so is Akido.  

 

Now back to Buddhism topic, shall we?

 

There are three key things you should be aware of; don't complicate things for yourself.

 

(1)  4th Noble Truth is simply an "idea" of what it meant to be a living things -  from birth to...the end.

(2)  8th fold Path is an overlap and an expansion to elaborate on  (1).  The acceptance of inevitable journey - both good and bad.   Thus having basic knowledge of either (1) or (2) suffice.

 

The above is passive, and often appeal to sooth the mind. Thus it is a universally accepted knowledge,  like international martime regulations  every nation adheres to in order to prevent collisions

 

 

(3)  5 precepts - 5 rules a human "SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO", because Buddhism believe if you do good, you get good, and if you do bad you are demerited, and which determine where one will go afterlife.  This applies to how you act, speak, feel and think.  

 

Thus (3)  falls into an active department and often highly debated and talked about across different branch and sects of Buddhism.   Killing insects is also considered bad Karma (hinting @Steve5380) under this category.

 

Disclaimer, the above is my layman view. Not trying to  replace those verteran, deep minded, complicated, professional guru teachings 

 

 

Edited October 5, 2023 by Sweetie Pie

[Steve5380]

1 hour ago, Sweetie Pie said:

I wouldn't want to take the chance of following your "medical advice" rather than that of a trained medical professional. 

 

Not too long ago, if you followed the advice of trained medical professionals you would eat everything "fat free"  ( and sugar loaded ), to have your mental issues corrected with a lobotomy,  and even today if you had your LDL a little "elevated" you would follow the advice of taking daily a satin drug and a baby aspirin. 

 

1 hour ago, Sweetie Pie said:

 

(3)  5 precepts - 5 rules a human "SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO", because Buddhism believe if you do good, you get good, and if you do bad you are demerited, and which determine where one will go afterlife.  This applies to how you act, speak, feel and think.  

 

 

This is not exclusive of Buddhism.  Many of us believe that to do good begets the good, and to do the bad begets the bad. The effect may not be anything supernatural,  but a result of the principle of cause and effect, which we are genetically programmed to understand.

 

 

1 hour ago, Sweetie Pie said:

 

Disclaimer, the above is my layman view. Not trying to  replace those verteran, deep minded, complicated, professional guru teachings 

 

 

You don't need to disclaim anything.  Here we should be free to post our ideas without being expert professionals in anything, if we do it with intelligence, knowledge and good will.  ( you could write a disclaimer about this? )

[Sweetie Pie]

2 hours ago, Sweetie Pie said:

(3)  5 precepts - 5 rules a human "SHOULD OR SHOULD NOT DO", because Buddhism believe if you do good, you get good, and if you do bad you are demerited, and which determine where one will go afterlife.  This applies to how you act, speak, feel and think.  

 

47 minutes ago, Steve5380 said:

 

This is not exclusive of Buddhism.  Many of us believe that to do good begets the good, and to do the bad begets the bad. 

 

Yes, it is exclusive to Buddhism, specifically the 5 precepts.  Similar to how the Ten Commandments are exclusive to Christians.

 

• Refrain from hurting, eating or taking life, any living blood creatures on this planet.
•  
• Refrain from taking what is not given, steal, cheat, scam, tricks, exploitation, dishonest activities, unfair dealings, short changing others, ...etc
•  
• Refrain from desires and sensual pleasure, materialistic cravings/attachments, greed, selfish intent, being light ears, not willing to give others,  SEX...etc
•  
• Refrain from gossips, lies, foul speech, bad temper, quick to anger, curses or words that intent to hurt others include your loved ones, FOE and friends...etc
•  
• Refrain from intoxicants that cloud the mind - alcohol, drugs, (smoking?) or hoarding excessive wealth.......etc
•  

Which religions obey ALL the above 5 precepts if it is not exclusive to Buddhism?

 

When did I say Buddhism is easy?

Edited October 5, 2023 by Sweetie Pie

[Steve5380]

59 minutes ago, Sweetie Pie said:

 

Yes, it is exclusive to Buddhism, specifically the 5 precepts.  Similar to how the Ten Commandments are exclusive to Christians.

 

 

Oh no!  The Ten Commandments are in the first place,  JEWISH.

[Guest U blur sotong]

1 hour ago, Steve5380 said:

 

Oh no!  The Ten Commandments are in the first place,  JEWISH.

First place Jewish, 2nd place Christian, 3rd place islam, they are all shared and upheld as part of the book in those religion. Now, get back to the topic and stop your nonsense. 

[Steve5380]

Can the Buddhism discussion be also deeply philosophical?  I found an interesting video worth watching: 

 

"The Nature of Reality: A Dialogue Between a Buddhist Scholar and a Theoretical Physicist"

 

 

I found in this video one of the most interesting cases in favor of Buddhism that raised my appreciation of it (starting at around 37:00).  I plan to comment more about this video in my thread about future senior gays.   

[Sweetie Pie]

On 10/22/2023 at 9:44 AM, Steve5380 said:

Can the Buddhism discussion be also deeply philosophical?    

Not only Buddhism, but most religious leaders enjoy incorporating philosophy into their sermons. Similarly, rituals are incorporated into religion to make one feel more connected (or attracted) to their belief and the unknown.

 

In my opinion, anyone can impart philosophy, including the greatest writers, inventors, directors, actors in Shakespeare plays, leaders, and liars.  One can easily write a book on philosophy in their own small closet, which explains why there are millions of books in your state's library just waiting to be discovered and entertained.

 

Returning to the question at hand, is Buddhism philosophical? Yes and no, in different ways. Buddhism has been practiced for a long time, is well-researched, and affects not only one's mental and physical well-being but also their emotional state, as well as the five core elements of nature namely - water, wood, fire, metal, and earth. As a result, feng Shui was added to Buddhism. There have also been claims that the books of Buddhism also influenced the development of Chinese or Hindu medicine, and let's not even talk about martial arts.....and...I am getting ahead of myself and hopefully didn't offend anyone here. 

Edited October 24, 2023 by Sweetie Pie

[Steve5380]

1 hour ago, Sweetie Pie said:

Not only Buddhism, but most religious leaders enjoy incorporating philosophy into their sermons. Similarly, rituals are incorporated into religion to make one feel more connected (or attracted) to their belief and the unknown.

 

In my opinion, anyone can impart philosophy, including the greatest writers, inventors, directors, actors in Shakespeare plays, leaders, and liars.  One can easily write a book on philosophy in their own small closet, which explains why there are millions of books in your state's library just waiting to be discovered and entertained.

 

Returning to the question at hand, is Buddhism philosophical? Yes and no, in different ways. Buddhism has been practiced for a long time, is well-researched, and affects not only one's mental and physical well-being but also their emotional state, as well as the five core elements of nature namely - water, wood, fire, metal, and earth. As a result, feng Shui was added to Buddhism. There have also been claims that the books of Buddhism also influenced the development of Chinese or Hindu medicine, and let's not even talk about martial arts.....and...I am getting ahead of myself and hopefully didn't offend anyone here. 

 

Yes.  Conscious or unconscious, our mind adopts its philosophies.  And Buddhism has a lot of philosophy, as we find by digging deeper into it.  Contrary to the common idea of karma and reincarnation that WE come back in successive lives, according to The Buddha it is not our own personality that comes back.  But it is our karma that affects a ????  that is created after our life.   Interesting complex ideas that vary depending on the branch of Buddhism.

 

I still give more credence to the Periodic Table of Elements over the "five elements of nature".  And I think that Feng Shui is a happy discipline of wishful thinking.   My own feng shui is the influence of what we put in our mouth, our nutrition, plus what we breathe and what we do with our muscles, has on our existence.   Rather than the position of our bed and the color of our curtains.  But traditional Asian medicine is something worth paying attention.

 

I also hope that my ideas don't offend anyone.  After all, why should my ideas have any value except for myself?

 

 

[Sweetie Pie]

9 hours ago, Steve5380 said:

The Buddha it is not our own personality that comes back.  But it is our karma that affects a ????  that is created after our life.   Interesting complex ideas that vary depending on the branch of Buddhism.

 

I still give more credence to the Periodic Table of Elements over the "five elements of nature".  And I think that Feng Shui is a happy discipline of wishful thinking.   My own feng shui is the influence of what we put in our mouth, our nutrition, plus what we breathe and what we do with our muscles

 

 

Wrong!!   Buddha is not a physical person.  It symbolised a person's heart.  As long as you don't harm anyone or result in you returning to be reincarnated into something different, do whatever it takes to bring you happiness. You see Feng Shui from  western lens.  The color of your underwear has no bearing on actual Chinese fengshui. The five elements of nature are not meant to be taken literally; rather, they are meant to serve as symbols to aid non-Chinese people in comprehending the intricate heavenly matrix that is specific to every single person from the moment of conception to the moment of delivery and thereafter most part of your fate is sealed and some part can be altered through a person's behaviour and mindset.  In this regard, Buddhism may comes in handy, to accept what you cannot change, and direct you to what you can.

Edited October 25, 2023 by Sweetie Pie

[Steve5380]

10 minutes ago, Sweetie Pie said:

Wrong!!   Buddha is not a physical person.  It symbolised a person's heart....

...

The five elements of nature are not meant to be taken literally; rather, they are meant to serve as symbols to aid non-Chinese people in comprehending the intricate heavenly matrix that is specific to every single person from the moment of conception to the moment of delivery and thereafter most part of your fate is sealed...

 

 

You changed the meaning of a phrase of mine that you truncated incorrectly.   Buddha is not a physical person???  Allegedly he WAS a physical person,  Siddhartha Gautama.

 

I am non-Chinese and yet I don't need the five elements to comprehend the intricate heavenly matrix... etc. etc.  Why do our philosophical thoughts need five symbols?  Why not 3 symbols, or 10 symbols?  Take a pick.

[Sweetie Pie]

8 hours ago, Steve5380 said:

You changed the meaning of a phrase of mine that you truncated incorrectly.   Buddha is not a physical person???  Allegedly he WAS a physical person,  Siddhartha Gautama.

Just like Christianity, the CROSS is not a person.  Anyway, if your belief makes you happy, what can we say?  I am planning to join @Why? at the North pole.   That guy is probably having a great time elsewhere and has entirely forgotten about what is going on in the Middle East and the Ukraine, leaving me on my own to deal with a difficult elderly man.

[Steve5380]

2 hours ago, Sweetie Pie said:

Just like Christianity, the CROSS is not a person.  Anyway, if your belief makes you happy, what can we say?  I am planning to join @Why? at the North pole.   That guy is probably having a great time elsewhere and has entirely forgotten about what is going on in the Middle East and the Ukraine, leaving me on my own to deal with a difficult elderly man.

 

Once you are a faithful Buddhist, you will have learned enough about human nature that you won't find people young and old "difficult".

 

You are right:  the CROSS is not a person, but JESUS allegedly was.

[Sweetie Pie]

39 minutes ago, Steve5380 said:

 

Once you are a faithful Buddhist, you will have learned enough about human nature that you won't find people young and old "difficult".

 

You are right:  the CROSS is not a person, but JESUS allegedly was.

Where did you get the clue I am a Buddhist?  However, from personal experiences, I did find majority of human nature rather appalling. 

[Steve5380]

11 hours ago, Sweetie Pie said:

Where did you get the clue I am a Buddhist?  However, from personal experiences, I did find majority of human nature rather appalling. 

 

Oh, I feel sorry for you.  From personal experience I find a majority of human nature increasingly interesting and positive.  Maybe this is something that comes with age. 

 

There is a saying:  "The more I learn about people, the more I like my dog".  But for me it is: "the more experiences I have with people, the less I need a dog or any other pet". 

 

[Guest Satyaki]

Do babies when they come into this world have past life memories?

[Sweetie Pie]

7 hours ago, Guest Satyaki said:

Do babies when they come into this world have past life memories?

Whether or not babies have memories of previous lives is not something to worry about.  Your concern should be focused on whether memory loss will affect you as you age.

[Steve5380]

12 hours ago, Sweetie Pie said:

Whether or not babies have memories of previous lives is not something to worry about.  Your concern should be focused on whether memory loss will affect you as you age.

 

Well said.  And what is important is to realize that dementia, memory loss with age can be prevented, and learn how to do it early on.   It seems that it has much to do with our good nutrition, maintaining a healthy metabolism and good microbiome. 

[kwongheng]

On 11/1/2023 at 12:44 AM, Guest Satyaki said:

Do babies when they come into this world have past life memories?

 

I don't understand the hostility towards this question. It is a legitimate question and I don't understand why we need to talk about whether one loses the memory later on in life or not. 

 

Anyway, there are many documented cases of babies still remembering their past life when they are born, but this is really rare and not the norm and I wouldn't speculate as to why. Even as adults, if we meditate deep enough, it is possible to review your past life, again this is from what I've heard, not from my own experience.

[Guest I share too much]

3 hours ago, kwongheng said:

 

I don't understand the hostility towards this question. It is a legitimate question

 

Legitimate question does not imply that the required response will be beneficial in any manner.   When your mind was confused, or in a state of being interrupted by familiar smell or sound (whatever that may be) while you slept, you weren't 100% certain that what you knew, briefly saw, or heard in those passing memories were your previous life experiences,  then also immediately vanish the moment you opened your eyes and returned to clarity and current state of mind.   You don't want to go there because it will make you feel unncessarily lonely and it was not even a nightmare to begin with,  after those brief "experiences".   The best course of action is to put an end to it from happening on a regular basis, lead a happier, healthier lifestyle, fulfill our obligations, and give this life our all.

[Steve5380]

11 hours ago, kwongheng said:

 

I don't understand the hostility towards this question. It is a legitimate question and I don't understand why we need to talk about whether one loses the memory later on in life or not. 

 

Anyway, there are many documented cases of babies still remembering their past life when they are born, but this is really rare and not the norm and I wouldn't speculate as to why. Even as adults, if we meditate deep enough, it is possible to review your past life, again this is from what I've heard, not from my own experience.

 

Should we have hostility towards challenges to legitimate questions?

[Swimfun]

Does anyone also practice the teachings of the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva's Fundamental Vows Sutra (地藏菩萨本愿经)?

[Butterworth]

Hi, Does anyone been or participated in Korea Templestay program before?? Anyone interested?? 

[Steve5380]

On 11/2/2023 at 8:57 AM, Guest I share too much said:

 

Legitimate question does not imply that the required response will be beneficial in any manner.   When your mind was confused, or in a state of being interrupted by familiar smell or sound (whatever that may be) while you slept, you weren't 100% certain that what you knew, briefly saw, or heard in those passing memories were your previous life experiences,  then also immediately vanish the moment you opened your eyes and returned to clarity and current state of mind.   You don't want to go there because it will make you feel unncessarily lonely and it was not even a nightmare to begin with,  after those brief "experiences".   The best course of action is to put an end to it from happening on a regular basis, lead a happier, healthier lifestyle, fulfill our obligations, and give this life our all.

 

In what units should we measure the beneficial in any response?

 

One first unit could be knowledge.  If a response gives knowledge, for good or bad,  it is useful, it is beneficial.

 

Another unit is inspiration.  What can an agnostic or non-Buddhist gain from a response in this thread?  It can open new avenues of thought.  Quite beneficial.

 

Another unit is amusement.  Responses can be so absurd, that they can make us laugh.  And laughing is healthy, therefore beneficial.

 

 

[fenghou]

Hello,

 

I would like to seek some help from the Community here. Might be a bit of a long post so I thank you for your time. The reason why it has to be this form and not anywhere else is because the topic change drastically once they found out I am homosexual and the topic will take a turn for the worse off-topic. This post is also not meant to put two different religions at odds with each other, please be respectful towards other belief systems as well.

 

Would like the help of good spirited folks here if you don't mind and here goes:

Recently, my faith and belief in Buddhism has faded and this has caused me to be depressed, unmotivated and at times even some dark thoughts.

 

I found Buddhism even before I was born when my mum went to a Buddhist Temple to pray for my safety while she was having me. During NS which was mentally a challenge to me, a particular Buddhist photo/picture somehow brought comfort to me despite not being a practicing Buddhist, and my affinity with Buddhism deepened. Through my previous career and my subsequent long periods of joblessness caused by COVID, Buddhism and its practices such as chanting (daily back then 108), Sur Offering (or known as smoke offering), and the daily playback of sermons by 海淘法师 on YouTube, helped me to move through the long periods of unemployment which is riddled with self-doubt. More recently, as my mum was critically ill (she recovered since thank god), behind her back, I have been reciting mantras and going to temples weekly to lit candles in her name for blessing, and again listen to online Buddhist sermons to get through. 

 

However, I am struggling with the belief system now. Please allow me to explain why:

 

My family is Christian, they are very accepting of other belief system and they are not the toxic type of Christians who fearmonger with tales of "Hell" and condemnation. My father who is extremely staunched in his belief of Christianity over more than 30 years, even share Buddhist posts to me knowing that this is my faith. However, during the recent health scare of my mum's critical illness, the prayers from pastors, family members, and a vision I had (more on this later) is making me confused. To assist my mother in her battle with the critical illness (which was excruciatingly painful and torturous for her), I read the gospels and strengthened her faith in her own religion, by answering Christian questions no one else can answer by adopting the Christian perspective. When she was fresh out of surgery and in ICU, when I visited my mum, I saw a vision of an angel protecting my mum, when I asked my pastor friends what this meant, they told me not to be too fixated on it. But I have always wondered if it is a sign.

 

This helped her in her recovery journey. Knowing that my mum (now recovered) and also my Dad's time on this realm is limited, I accompany the both of them to church twice a month to spend family time with them. No conversation efforts were forced on me.

 

In the month of May 2024, the churched focused on family values and on how you can reunite with your departed loved ones in the Kingdom of God eventually after the events of revelation has happened. I know of such promises by the Christian belief system even in the past, but as now, the reality that my parents will eventually pass becomes more real, I am more allured by it. The reality of reuniting with them eventually is such a comforting thing and I am swayed.

 

I adopted Buddhism more than 10 years ago because I found that Buddhism did the following better:

• explanation of unfairness and inequality in the world
• explanation of terminal painful diseases of young children better (if there is no karma and if God is just, why are innocent children contracting painful incurable diseases?)
• explanation of the concept of time better where Buddhism hints that time is non-linear and is cyclical instead (which addresses the philosophy inquisition of "Turtles all the way down", the problem of problem of infinite regress)
• explanation of therefore why one must do good (out of compassion and the bodhisattva spirit, and not out of fear of some arbitrary divine laws)
• non-outright condemnation of sexuality, specifically against homosexuals, just because of some arbitrary divine law and "grant design"

In the past, there were also many "coincidences" which lead me to Buddhism as well.

 

My struggles with Buddhism are as follows (please do share your thoughts):

• Lack of a "reunion" with parents in the afterlife: Mahayana Buddhism taught that after death, all of us reincarnate (endlessly). And because of endless reincarnation, it may suggest that the animals we eat, or the people we hate and abuse in this lifetime, might be in fact someone you loved in the past. Because of this we should be compassionate and practice universal love towards all. I can accept this teaching and in fact, it is extremely logical and understandable to me. But this means by extension that once my parents have passed, I will never be reunited with them. I find this reality to be soul-breaking, for in my entire life, I have never received unconditional love from anyone else and have been single my entire adult life

• Lack of a strong historical connection in Mahayana scriptures to the Pali Canon : I often wonder why the different schools of Buddhism are so different from one another. In the US, Buddhism is promoted strongly as a non-theistic religion, and the focus is extremely heavy on self-practice and self-mastery, where they reject all form of "supernatural blessings" and assistance from Buddhist Figures/Bodhisattvas and  even the Buddha. Yet when you look at Tibetan and even Mahayana Buddhism, it is the complete opposite. Because of this, I wondered what Buddhism is and the most accurate historical roots of Buddhism lies in the Pali Canon. If I am to be extreme and follow this line of taught, does it mean that all I have learned over all these years through Mahayana teachings.... are not valid? I struggle with this greatly, and I would love it if some wisdom can be given to me in this forum on this question.

• Impossibility of reaching Enlightenment : in Theravada Traditions, the belief is that one must practice throughout many different lifetimes as a human believe, to eventually reach nirvana. In Mahayana practices, specifically Pureland Buddhism, it is taught that reaching enlightenment throughout multiple lifetimes is too challenging therefore, Amitabh Buddha created the Pureland, so that we can go to the Pureland and practice to reach enlightenment in a conducive environment with the guidance of the many Bodhisattvas and more. In Tibetan Buddhism, enlightenment may be achieved through "Secret arts" and esoteric practices in one lifetime. The views are so diverse, and if I were to stick to the Pali Canon, the Theravada approach seems like the one that is taught. And if so, reaching enlightenment through countless rebirths and continued practices seems like an impossibility.

• The lack of a proper organized Buddhist Fellowship : I have been to many monasteries and spoken to a few monks. I have also taken part in monthly repentance ceremonies in the past. But in all of those situations, I find myself being unable to share that I am gay, and therefore unable to find a fellowship which I can walk this spiritual path with. In addition, being a Mahayana Buddhist where many teachings are in Chinese, I find it more difficult to study.

 

 

My belief in Buddhism has given me great confidence through many of life's hardship. But as of late I am really struggling with my confidence in this path and this has affected many aspects of my life mainly my mental health. I would like to seek the kind wise souls lurking in this forum potentially, on your thoughts so that I can maybe find myself less lost in this world.

 

PS: Dear Mods, I apologize if this is potentially a controversial post. But on Vesak Day, I am really struggling with my belief and my intentions is to seek clarity in the power of numbers online here.

[IkuTube]

9 hours ago, fenghou said:

 

PS: Dear Mods, I apologize if this is potentially a controversial post. But on Vesak Day, I am really struggling with my belief and my intentions is to seek clarity in the power of numbers online here.

 

 

Firstly, I am not a Buddhist and, hence, I should not add on any scriptures or any religious quotes to mislead on the subject.  Humans, and we must accept the fact that, have limited intellectual ability.  Often, it is our ego saying otherwise. 

 

However, clearly I like the way you are expressing yourself albeit the confusion within you.  There is compassion.  There is a human touch.  In your own way, you are already a winner!

 

You reminded me much of my favourite quote, 'Before you call yourself a Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu or any other theology, learn to be human first' by Shannon L. Alder

 

Secondly, as a Mod, IMHO you are not crossing the line.

 

Today, on Vesak Day, I received this particular message posted in a group chat.  Somehow, on reflection, it speaks (indirectly) on your thought process.  It reads 'Thoughts fuel emotions.  If you don't like what you're feeling, step back and examine what you're thinking.  Pain is inevitable, but you'll suffer a lot less if you disengage from your thoughts'.  It was written by Lori Deschene.

 

Religion, to me, is very personal.  We have to be 'in it' - both religiously and spiritually - to become the good human.  Having said that, I do like Buddhist philosophy and I do live by some of its wisdom.

 

I do hope you find your peace, @fenghou.  Perhaps, don't overthink too much but do what is right by you and you alone.  Love exists in every religious practices.  Love unites.  We, as humans, just have to find that middle ground, that peaceful modus vivendi, to exist harmoniously together.

 

It is nice to hear about your family dynamic - your strong relationship with your parents.  A good spiritual person will never, IMO, judge another.  From what you have written about your parents, I have so much respect for them.  I do pray for your mum's well being.

 

Have you thought that it could be your Buddhist prayers together with their Christian prayers that have placed all of you in a good state of well being? Yes, life requires struggles but, from what you have shared, you and your family have made it right -- all from one loving conviction - unconditional love.

 

Happy a good Vesak Day to you!

 

[Salt&Pepper]

Hello @fenghou

 

First of all, it is perfectly fine to doubt, the Buddha has never asked us to blindly believe him. He encourages us to verify his teachings and the continuous vigorous testing and verification through meditation, debate and practice by all buddhists for the past 2500 over years have never stopped.

 

From reading your long post, I hope you don't mind me saying that I get a feeling your fundamental understanding of the Dharma is not strong and fragmented. Thus, it is quite normal that you feel there are "gaps" that you cannot reconcile and it causes you a lot of confusion.

 

If one has a strong fundamental understanding of the Dharma, they will see the continuity and consistency no matter which branch, form or geography as well as separate out which part is the "influence" from the history, culture, geography and politics. You will also immediately able to differentiate out a cult pretending to be Buddhism. Therefore I encourage you to go back to basics and build a solid well-rounded understanding foundation of the Dharma.

 

No need to mind Theravada, Mahayana or Vajrayana. Go back to basics, just closely examine the life and all his teachings of our Teacher in this Samsara. Today is His day and you chose to pen your cry for help this day. This is your calling. Don't underestimate the basics, if you do your homework right, you will find it is quite overwhelming. And overwhelming is good, because you will realize the enormous width and depth of the Dharma and you are on a path to clear your ignorance, gain wisdom and on the path to nirvana.

 

You have specifically penned some questions. I will try my best to guide you to the answers you seek:

 

• Lack of a "reunion" with parents in the afterlife

 

Vegetarianism practice in Buddhism is not so simple. It is actually quite complicated and the 5 things that the Buddha specifically discourages practicing buddhist not to consume are all plant-based. I'm not giving Buddhist an out to eat meat. It's through understanding the Dharma and developing Compassion so great that they vow to not Kill other sentient beings and eat them. That's not your main concern in your 1st question....but I just have to get it out of the way

 

You will have plenty of opportunity to reunite with your loved ones even after life. There is one fundamental quality you must have to qualify being a Buddhist and that is Filial Piety. As you examine the life of our Buddha, you'll learn how he helped his loved ones gained enlightenment even those passed and how he helped his disciples saved theirs from the suffering realms. If you are a true follower of the Buddha, you'll be following his footsteps.

 

• Lack of a strong historical connection in Mahayana scriptures to the Pali Canon 

 

I believe I already covered this. No need to be concerned with this. Go back to basics. Just focus on getting to know our teacher VERY WELL. When you get the fundamentals right, the variations and why the variation will not bother you so much.

 

• Impossibility of reaching Enlightenment :

 

If I'm not wrong our Buddha went through 400,000 reincarnations before attaining Nirvana. So it's possible! According to learning curve theory, we should go through less reincarnations before attaining Nirvana! The point is there is no easy way and shortcuts in Buddhism. Even in Amitabha Pure Land teachings, you must have accumulated so much Karma Merit over uncountable lifetimes to be able to come into contact with Pure Land teachings and use it to attain Buddhahood. The true Buddhist sees the commonality in Theravada, Mahayana or Vajrayana not the differences. However, because of your karma, you may develop an affinity to either one. However, no matter which one, the fundamentals do not change. As long as you are on the right path and not wandering aimlessly, you WILL reach your destination.

 

• The lack of a proper organized Buddhist Fellowship 

 

Not true. You haven't found it yet, but I got a feeling that's gonna change. 1st finding the right teacher is very important, but don't just speak to Monks! Believe it not, being a monk doesn't mean he/she is well versed in the Dharma or even if he/she is, it doesn't mean he/she can teach it well. Do not dive into Sutras. Not yet. Find organizations that have properly structured courses for the principles of buddhism. I did a quick Google search and there are quite a handful and available in English. Do this homework yourself to take the step towards commitment in gaining the knowledge. You can get back to us by returning to this Forum Topic and share your research so we may assist in gatekeeping and you may also help others along the way. You may want to check this one out as I just PLUCK out among the many:

 

https://handfulofleaves.life/buddhist-courses-in-singapore/

 

I do not encourage you in partaking in many ceremonies and rituals, if you don't fully understand the meaning and significance behind them, you won't benefit much besides some basic karma merit.

 

Last but not least, I empathize that it is difficult to reconcile our sexuality with our spirituality and finding fellowship in the journey. However, I believe the most important fellowship we need to have is with our teacher the Buddha and I'm quite sure he doesn't mind that we are gay. I often have one-sided conversations with the Buddha or Goddess of Mercy when I need to sort through difficult stuff in life, but as I speak I wonder how they would answer and the Dharma would surface. If not, the universe will somehow answer back guide me in one way or another. I often smile at the irony "God works in mysterious ways" when it happens.

 

Happy Vesak Day! 🙏

 

(I apologize and this should be my last edit no matter spelling mistake or wrong choice of words. If i sound condescending, it's not my intention and I am sorry.)

 

I just want to add that Buddhism has also been my anchor since I took refuge when I was 18 years old, but there were also times when it faded to the back of my life. There were times it mattered but my faith was shaken to the core. However, I always somehow has returned to the path. Looking back it may not be a bad thing as it is only when we are tested do we grow our determination and strengthen our faith. So the key is to pass the tests 😜!

 

When we are struggling, remember the one fundamental principle in Buddhism is Impermanence, the good will come to pass, the bad will also come to pass. So one step at a time, learn from both the good and the bad, steer yourself towards the positive. @fenghou 加油！

 

 

Edited May 22 by Salt&Pepper

[Swimfun]

Chanting is more than just a process; understanding every single word we chant is crucial. Chanting serves to remind us of the Buddha's teachings.

 

Before we start reading or chanting, the opening note always begins with :

 

无上甚深微妙法，
百千万劫难遭遇，
我今见闻得受持，
愿解如来真实义。

 

The words you chant are the minutes of the meetings captured when Buddha shared his teachings and engaged in Q&A with his followers. It is essential to understand the nature of suffering, why it occurs, and how things happen.

Understand the basics of what the 六道 (Six Realms) are, and why Buddhists seek to 脱离 (transcend) from them.

 

All gods in the universe are considered part of the Six Realms, so learning to respect them is crucial. Through this respect, you will find the true path to 修心 (cultivating the mind), 放下 (letting go), and 度众生 (helping all beings).

 

Consider to read the below list of sutras (minutes of meetings):-

 

1. 金刚般若波罗蜜经 (Diamond Sutra)
2. 妙法莲华经 (The Lotus Sutra)
3. 佛说阿弥陀经 (The Amitabha Sutra)
4. 地藏菩萨本愿经 (The Sutra of Kṣitigarbha's Fundamental Vows)

[LeanMature]

12 hours ago, Swimfun said:

Chanting is more than just a process; understanding every single word we chant is crucial. Chanting serves to remind us of the Buddha's teachings.

 

Before we start reading or chanting, the opening note always begins with :

 

无上甚深微妙法，
百千万劫难遭遇，
我今见闻得受持，
愿解如来真实义。

 

The words you chant are the minutes of the meetings captured when Buddha shared his teachings and engaged in Q&A with his followers. It is essential to understand the nature of suffering, why it occurs, and how things happen.

Understand the basics of what the 六道 (Six Realms) are, and why Buddhists seek to 脱离 (transcend) from them.

 

All gods in the universe are considered part of the Six Realms, so learning to respect them is crucial. Through this respect, you will find the true path to 修心 (cultivating the mind), 放下 (letting go), and 度众生 (helping all beings).

 

Consider to read the below list of sutras (minutes of meetings):-

 

1. 金刚般若波罗蜜经 (Diamond Sutra)
2. 妙法莲华经 (The Lotus Sutra)
3. 佛说阿弥陀经 (The Amitabha Sutra)
4. 地藏菩萨本愿经 (The Sutra of Kṣitigarbha's Fundamental Vows)

 

Can you help to translate the "opening notes" ?  I don't think Google can do it. 

[Salt&Pepper]

@LeanMature Some kind soul already translated it and shared at another Buddhist Website Forum:

 

開經偈 kāi jīng jì

 

開 opening, starting; 經 sūtra; 偈 verse (gāthā)

The Verse on Opening a Sūtra

 

無上甚深微妙法 wú shàng shèn shēn wéi miào fa

無上 unsurpassed; 甚深 profound; 微 subtle; 妙 marvelous; 法 Dharma, Buddha's teaching

The Buddha's teachings, which are unsurpassed, profound, and wonderful,

 

百千萬劫難遭遇 b i qiān wàn jié nán zāo yù

百 hundred; 千 thousand; 萬 ten thousand; 劫 kalpas; 難 difficult; 遭遇 to encounter

Are difficult to encounter even in millions of eons

 

我今見聞得受持 w jīn jiàn wén dé shòu chí

我 I; 今 now; 見 see; 聞 hear; 得 obtain; 受 receive; 持 hold

Now that I am (finally) able to hear and practice it

 

願解如來真實義 yuàn jiě rú lái zhēn shí yì

願 to wish, to yearn; 解 to understand; 如來 the Buddha (Tathāgatha); 真 true; 實 real; 義 meaning

I aspire to understand the real message of the Buddha.

 

There is a rule in Buddhist translation is that if a Sanskrit word cannot be accurately and wholly expressed by another language, it will not be translated and the Sanskrit word will be maintained.

 

You can google Kalpas and Tathagata for their rough meanings.

Edited May 23 by Salt&Pepper
Better Translation

[Swimfun]

We might not be able to transcend the six realms in this life, but we can move to higher realms, such as the God Realm (天道) or Human Realm (人道), to continue our 修心 (practice) and get closer to attaining enlightenment. The six realms include:

 

1. 天道 (God Realm)
2. 人道 (Human Realm)
3. 阿修罗道 (Demi God Realm)
4. 畜生道 (Animal Realm)
5. 饿鬼道 (Hungry Ghost Realm)
6. 地狱道 (Hell Realm)