BUDDHISM

BUDDHISM

―Both formerly and now, monks, I declare only suffering and the cessation of suffering. ‖

-MN22

Buddhism is considered one of the world‟s major religions. By some estimates over 300 million people throughout the world consider themselves Buddhists. In many Asian countries where Buddhism is the major religion, the types of Buddhist practices observed look very different from those described in this book. In these countries, many Buddhists consider the Buddha a deity or at least a super-human. Accordingly, some Buddhist scriptures depict a detailed and fantastical Buddhist cosmology which is based on the law of kamma. There are human, animal, heaven, hell, and other realms where beings are reborn according to the results of kamma generated in previous lives. Kamma that is generated in one‟s current life in turn influences one‟s rebirth in the next life. This is the wheel of samsara and the Buddha said that no first beginning to it can be found. There is no central agent or god driving it. This view frames spiritual practice as paramount to escaping from samsara and the intention toward wholesome states as the ideal. The Buddha discouraged devotional practice (e.g., praying to gods, chanting, worshiping idols, and making offerings such as burning incense, etc.) because these rituals often lead to clinging. They can become hollow forms that have nothing to do with the 3 trainings and uprooting our defilements. However throughout the millennia, these devotional practices have become central to many Buddhist communities. Western Buddhists often practice meditation for its positive benefits and its holistic ethical

framework while preferring to set aside the mythological, cosmological, and devotional aspects of Buddhism. Others embrace these views and practices. As this ancient Eastern religion takes root in the West, it is adopting the beliefs, inclinations, and practices of its host countries. It has particularly taken on shades of secularism, pluralism, materialism, and individualism. Modern psychology theory and practice is also a strong influence. It is an exciting time to be a Buddhist. There are numerous Buddhist practices and flavors of Buddhism available. Many offer skillful means for spiritual growth, and some can lead us away from our goals. For each of us who decides to embrace the Dhamma, whether we consider ourselves Buddhists or not, it is important to reflect often on our intentions and their results. Not that we want to obsessively scrutinize or criticize our meditation. Rather, using the skills gained through practice, we can develop an inner intuitive wisdom that will serve us through the worst (and best) of times. As the Buddha enjoins us, “come see for yourself.”