Difference between revisions of "THE BUDDHIST CORE VALUES AND PERSPECTIVES FOR PROTECTION CHALLENGES: FAITH AND PROTECTION"
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| − | + | THE [[BUDDHIST]] CORE VALUES AND PERSPECTIVES FOR PROTECTION CHALLENGES: FAITH AND PROTECTION | |
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| − | THE BUDDHIST CORE VALUES AND PERSPECTIVES FOR PROTECTION CHALLENGES: FAITH AND PROTECTION | ||
| − | I. THE BACKGROUND OF BUDDHISM | + | I. THE BACKGROUND OF [[BUDDHISM]] |
| − | Buddhism, like most of the great religions of the world, is divided into a number of different traditions. However, most traditions share a common set of fundamental beliefs. | + | [[Buddhism]], like most of the great [[religions]] of the [[world]], is divided into a number of different [[traditions]]. However, most [[traditions]] share a common set of fundamental [[beliefs]]. |
| − | One central belief of Buddhism is often referred to as reincarnation -- the concept that people are reborn after dying. In fact, most individuals go through many cycles of birth, living, death and rebirth. A practicing Buddhist differentiates between the concepts of rebirth and reincarnation. | + | One central [[belief]] of [[Buddhism]] is often referred to as [[reincarnation]] -- the {{Wiki|concept}} that [[people]] are [[reborn]] after dying. In fact, most {{Wiki|individuals}} go through many cycles of [[birth]], living, [[death]] and [[rebirth]]. A practicing [[Buddhist]] differentiates between the [[Wikipedia:concept|concepts]] of [[rebirth]] and [[reincarnation]]. |
| − | In reincarnation, the individual may recur repeatedly. In rebirth, a person does not necessarily return to Earth as the same entity ever again. He compares it to a leaf growing on a tree. When the withering leaf falls off, a new leaf will eventually replace it. It is similar to the old leaf, but it is not identical to the original leaf. | + | In [[reincarnation]], the {{Wiki|individual}} may recur repeatedly. In [[rebirth]], a [[person]] does not necessarily return to [[Earth]] as the same [[entity]] ever again. He compares it to a leaf growing on a [[tree]]. When the withering leaf falls off, a new leaf will eventually replace it. It is similar to the old leaf, but it is not [[identical]] to the original leaf. |
| − | Buddhism is a philosophy of life expounded by Gautama Buddha ("Buddha" means "enlightened one"), who lived and taught in northern India in the 6th century B.C. The Buddha was not a god and the philosophy of Buddhism does not entail any theistic world view. The teachings of the Buddha are aimed solely at liberating sentient beings from suffering. | + | [[Buddhism]] is a [[philosophy]] of [[life]] expounded by [[Gautama Buddha]] ("[[Buddha]]" means "[[enlightened one]]"), who lived and [[taught]] in {{Wiki|northern India}} in the 6th century B.C. The [[Buddha]] was not a [[god]] and the [[philosophy]] of [[Buddhism]] does not entail any {{Wiki|theistic}} {{Wiki|world view}}. The [[teachings of the Buddha]] are aimed solely at liberating [[sentient beings]] from [[suffering]]. |
| − | The Basic Teachings of Buddha which are core to Buddhism are: | + | The Basic [[Teachings of Buddha]] which are core to [[Buddhism]] are: |
| − | • The Three Universal Truths; | + | • The [[Three Universal Truths]]; |
| − | • The Four Noble Truths; and | + | • The [[Four Noble Truths]]; and |
| − | • The Noble Eightfold Path. | + | • The [[Noble Eightfold Path]]. |
II. THE THREE UNIVERSAL TRUTHS | II. THE THREE UNIVERSAL TRUTHS | ||
| − | 1. Nothing is lost in the universe | + | 1. Nothing is lost in the [[universe]] |
2. Everything Changes | 2. Everything Changes | ||
| − | 3. The Law of Cause and Effect | + | 3. The [[Law of Cause and Effect]] |
| − | In Buddhism, the law of karma, says "for every event that occurs, there will follow another event whose existence was caused by the first, and this second event will be pleasant or unpleasant according as its cause was skillful or unskillful." Therefore, the law of Karma teaches that the responsibility for unskillful actions is borne by the person who commits them. | + | In [[Buddhism]], the [[law of karma]], says "for every event that occurs, there will follow another event whose [[existence]] was [[caused]] by the first, and this second event will be [[pleasant]] or [[unpleasant]] according as its [[cause]] was [[skillful]] or [[unskillful]]." Therefore, the [[law of Karma]] teaches that the {{Wiki|responsibility}} for [[unskillful]] [[actions]] is borne by the [[person]] who commits them. |
| − | After his enlightenment, the Buddha went to the Deer Park near the holy city of Benares and shared his new understanding with five holy men. They understood immediately and became his disciples. This marked the beginning of the Buddhist community. For the next forty-five years, the Buddha and his disciples went from place to place in India spreading the Dharma, his teachings. Their compassion knew no bounds; they helped everyone along the way, beggars, kings and slave girls. At night, they would sleep where they were; when hungry they would ask for a little food. | + | After his [[enlightenment]], the [[Buddha]] went to the [[Deer Park]] near the {{Wiki|holy}} city of [[Benares]] and shared his new [[understanding]] with five {{Wiki|holy}} men. They understood immediately and became his [[disciples]]. This marked the beginning of the [[Buddhist community]]. For the next forty-five years, the [[Buddha]] and his [[disciples]] went from place to place in [[India]] spreading the [[Dharma]], his teachings. Their [[compassion]] knew no bounds; they helped everyone along the way, beggars, [[kings]] and slave girls. At night, they would [[sleep]] where they were; when hungry they would ask for a little [[food]]. |
| − | Wherever the Buddha went, he won the hearts of the people because he dealt with their true feelings. He advised them not to accept his words on blind faith, but to decide for themselves whether his teachings are right or wrong, then follow them. He encouraged everyone to have compassion for each other and develop their own virtue: "You should do your own work, for I can teach only the way." | + | Wherever the [[Buddha]] went, he won the hearts of the [[people]] because he dealt with their true [[feelings]]. He advised them not to accept his words on [[blind faith]], but to decide for themselves whether his teachings are right or wrong, then follow them. He encouraged everyone to have [[compassion]] for each other and develop their [[own]] [[virtue]]: "You should do your [[own]] work, for I can teach only the way." |
| − | Once, the Buddha and his disciple Ananda visited a monastery where a monk was suffering from a contagious disease. The poor man lay in a mess with no one looking after him. The Buddha himself washed the sick monk and placed him on a new bed. Afterwards, he admonished the other monks: "Monks, you have neither mother nor father to look after you. If you do not look after each other, who will look after you? Whoever serves the sick and suffering, serves me." | + | Once, the [[Buddha]] and his [[disciple]] [[Ananda]] visited a [[monastery]] where a [[monk]] was [[suffering]] from a contagious {{Wiki|disease}}. The poor man lay in a mess with no one [[looking after]] him. The [[Buddha]] himself washed the sick [[monk]] and placed him on a new bed. Afterwards, he admonished the other [[monks]]: "[[Monks]], you have neither mother nor father to look after you. If you do not look after each other, who will look after you? Whoever serves the sick and [[suffering]], serves me." |
| − | After many such cycles, if a person releases their attachment to desire and the self, they can attain Nirvana. This is a state of liberation and freedom from suffering. | + | After many such cycles, if a [[person]] releases their [[attachment to desire]] and the [[self]], they can attain [[Nirvana]]. This is a [[state of liberation]] and freedom from [[suffering]]. |
| − | The three trainings or practices | + | The [[three trainings]] or practices |
| Line 54: | Line 54: | ||
| − | 1. Sila: Virtue, good conduct, morality. This is based on two fundamental principles: The principle of equality: that all living entities are equal. The principle of reciprocity: This is the "Golden Rule" in Christianity - to do unto others as you would wish them to do unto you. It is found in all major religions. | + | 1. [[Sila]]: [[Virtue]], [[good conduct]], [[morality]]. This is based on two fundamental {{Wiki|principles}}: The [[principle]] of equality: that all living entities are {{Wiki|equal}}. The [[principle]] of reciprocity: This is the "[[Golden Rule]]" in [[Christianity]] - to do unto others as you would wish them to do unto you. It is found in all major [[religions]]. |
| − | 2. Samadhi: Concentration, meditation, mental development. Developing one's mind is the path to wisdom which, in turn, leads to personal freedom. Mental development also strengthens and controls our mind; this helps us maintain good conduct. | + | 2. [[Samadhi]]: [[Concentration]], [[meditation]], [[mental development]]. Developing one's [[mind]] is the [[path]] to [[wisdom]] which, in turn, leads to personal freedom. [[Mental development]] also strengthens and controls our [[mind]]; this helps us maintain [[good conduct]]. |
| − | 3. Prajna: Discernment, insight, wisdom, enlightenment. This is the real heart of Buddhism. Wisdom will emerge if your mind is pure and calm. | + | 3. [[Prajna]]: [[Discernment]], [[insight]], [[wisdom]], [[enlightenment]]. This is the real [[heart]] of [[Buddhism]]. [[Wisdom]] will emerge if your [[mind]] is [[pure]] and [[calm]]. |
| − | The first two paths listed in the Eightfold Path, described below, refer to discernment; the last three belong to concentration; the middle three are related to virtue. | + | The first [[two paths]] listed in the [[Eightfold Path]], described below, refer to [[discernment]]; the last three belong to [[concentration]]; the middle three are related to [[virtue]]. |
| − | III. THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS | + | III. THE [[FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS]] |
| − | The Buddha's Four Noble Truths explore human suffering. They may be described (somewhat simplistically) as: | + | The [[Buddha's]] [[Four Noble Truths]] explore [[human]] [[suffering]]. They may be described (somewhat simplistically) as: |
| − | 1. Dukkha: Suffering exists: Life is suffering. Suffering is real and almost universal. Suffering has many causes: loss, sickness, pain, failure, and the impermanence of pleasure. | + | 1. [[Dukkha]]: [[Suffering]] [[exists]]: [[Life is suffering]]. [[Suffering]] is real and almost [[universal]]. [[Suffering]] has many [[causes]]: loss, [[sickness]], [[pain]], failure, and the [[impermanence]] of [[pleasure]]. |
| − | 2. Samudaya: There is a cause of suffering. Suffering is due to attachment. It is the desire to have and control things. It can take many forms: craving of sensual pleasures; the desire for fame; the desire to avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy. | + | 2. [[Samudaya]]: There is a [[cause of suffering]]. [[Suffering]] is due to [[attachment]]. It is the [[desire]] to have and control things. It can take many [[forms]]: [[craving]] of [[sensual pleasures]]; the [[desire]] for [[fame]]; the [[desire]] to avoid [[unpleasant]] [[sensations]], like {{Wiki|fear}}, [[anger]] or [[jealousy]]. |
| − | 3. Nirodha: There is an end to suffering. Attachment can be overcome. Suffering ceases with the final liberation of Nirvana (Nibbana). The mind experiences complete freedom, liberation and non-attachment. It lets go of any desire or craving. | + | 3. [[Nirodha]]: There is an [[end to suffering]]. [[Attachment]] can be overcome. [[Suffering]] ceases with the final [[liberation]] of [[Nirvana]] ([[Nibbana]]). The [[mind]] [[experiences]] complete freedom, [[liberation]] and [[non-attachment]]. It lets go of any [[desire]] or [[craving]]. |
| − | 4. Magga: In order to end suffering, you must follow the Eightfold Path. There is a path for accomplishing this. | + | 4. [[Magga]]: In order to end [[suffering]], you must follow the [[Eightfold Path]]. There is a [[path]] for accomplishing this. |
| − | The five precepts | + | The [[five precepts]] |
| − | These are rules to live by. They are somewhat analogous to the second half of the Ten Commandments in Judaism and Christianity -- that part of the Decalogue which describes behaviors to avoid. However, they are recommendations, not commandments. Believers are expected to use their own intelligence in deciding exactly how to apply these rules: | + | These are {{Wiki|rules}} to live by. They are somewhat analogous to the second half of the Ten Commandments in {{Wiki|Judaism}} and [[Christianity]] -- that part of the Decalogue which describes behaviors to avoid. However, they are recommendations, not commandments. Believers are expected to use their [[own]] [[intelligence]] in deciding exactly how to apply these {{Wiki|rules}}: |
| − | 1. Do not kill. This is sometimes translated as "not harming" or an absence of violence. | + | 1. [[Do not kill]]. This is sometimes translated as "not harming" or an absence of [[violence]]. |
| − | 2. Do not steal. This is generally interpreted as including the avoidance of fraud and economic exploitation. | + | 2. [[Do not steal]]. This is generally interpreted as [[including]] the avoidance of {{Wiki|fraud}} and economic exploitation. |
| − | 3. Do not lie. This is sometimes interpreted as including name-calling, gossip, etc. | + | 3. [[Do not lie]]. This is sometimes interpreted as [[including]] name-calling, {{Wiki|gossip}}, etc. |
| − | 4. Do not misuse sex. For monks and nuns, this means any departure from complete celibacy. For the laity, adultery is forbidden, along with any sexual harassment or exploitation, including that within marriage. The Buddha did not discuss consensual premarital sex within a committed relationship, thus, Buddhist traditions differ on this. Most Buddhists, probably influenced by their local cultures, condemn same-sex sexual activity regardless of the nature of the relationship between the people involved. | + | 4. Do not {{Wiki|misuse}} {{Wiki|sex}}. For [[monks and nuns]], this means any departure from complete [[celibacy]]. For the laity, [[adultery]] is forbidden, along with any {{Wiki|sexual}} harassment or exploitation, [[including]] that within [[marriage]]. The [[Buddha]] did not discuss consensual premarital {{Wiki|sex}} within a committed relationship, thus, [[Buddhist traditions]] differ on this. Most [[Buddhists]], probably influenced by their local cultures, condemn same-sex {{Wiki|sexual}} [[activity]] regardless of the [[nature]] of the relationship between the [[people]] involved. |
| − | 5. Do not consume alcohol or other drugs. The main concern here is that intoxicants cloud the mind. Some have included as a drug other methods of divorcing ourselves from reality -- e.g. movies, television, and the Internet. | + | 5. Do not consume [[alcohol]] or other [[drugs]]. The main [[concern]] here is that [[intoxicants]] cloud the [[mind]]. Some have included as a {{Wiki|drug}} other [[methods]] of divorcing ourselves from [[reality]] -- e.g. movies, television, and the [[Internet]]. |
| − | Those preparing for monastic life or who are not within a family are expected to avoid an additional five activities: | + | Those preparing for [[monastic life]] or who are not within a [[family]] are expected to avoid an additional five [[activities]]: |
6. Taking untimely meals. | 6. Taking untimely meals. | ||
| − | 7. Dancing, singing, music, watching grotesque mime. | + | 7. [[Dancing]], singing, [[music]], watching grotesque mime. |
| − | 8. Use of garlands, perfumes and personal adornment. | + | 8. Use of garlands, [[perfumes]] and personal adornment. |
9. Use of high seats. | 9. Use of high seats. | ||
| − | 10. Accepting gold or silver. | + | 10. Accepting {{Wiki|gold}} or {{Wiki|silver}}. |
| − | There is also a series of eight precepts which are composed of the first seven listed above, followed by the eighth and ninth combined as one. "Ordained Theravada monks promise to follow 227 precepts!" | + | There is also a series of [[eight precepts]] which are composed of the first seven listed above, followed by the eighth and ninth combined as one. "[[Ordained]] [[Theravada]] [[monks]] promise to follow 227 [[precepts]]!" |
| − | IV. THE EIGHTFOLD PATH | + | IV. THE EIGHTFOLD [[PATH]] |
| − | The Buddha's Eightfold Path consists of: | + | The [[Buddha's]] [[Eightfold Path]] consists of: |
| − | Panna: Discernment, wisdom: | + | [[Panna]]: [[Discernment]], [[wisdom]]: |
| − | 1. Samma ditthi: Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths. Right View is the true understanding of the four noble truths. | + | 1. [[Samma ditthi]]: [[Right Understanding]] of the [[Four Noble Truths]]. [[Right View]] is the true [[understanding]] of the [[four noble truths]]. |
| − | 2. Samma sankappa: Right thinking; following the right path in life. Right Aspiration is the true desire to free oneself from attachment, ignorance, and hatefulness. | + | 2. [[Samma sankappa]]: [[Right thinking]]; following the [[right path]] in [[life]]. [[Right Aspiration]] is the true [[desire]] to free oneself from [[attachment]], [[ignorance]], and hatefulness. |
| − | These two are referred to as Prajna, or Wisdom. | + | These two are referred to as [[Prajna]], or [[Wisdom]]. |
| − | Sila: Virtue, morality: | + | [[Sila]]: [[Virtue]], [[morality]]: |
| − | 3. Samma vaca: Right speech: No lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language. Right Speech involves abstaining from lying, gossiping, or hurtful talk. | + | 3. [[Samma vaca]]: [[Right speech]]: No {{Wiki|lying}}, [[criticism]], condemning, {{Wiki|gossip}}, harsh [[language]]. [[Right Speech]] involves abstaining from {{Wiki|lying}}, gossiping, or hurtful talk. |
| − | 4. Samma kammanta Right conduct or Right Action involves abstaining from hurtful behaviors, such as killing, stealing, and careless sex. These are called the Five Precepts. | + | 4. [[Samma kammanta]] [[Right conduct]] or [[Right Action]] involves abstaining from hurtful behaviors, such as {{Wiki|killing}}, [[stealing]], and careless {{Wiki|sex}}. These are called the [[Five Precepts]]. |
| − | 5. Samma ajiva: Right livelihood: Support yourself without harming others. Right Livelihood means making your living in such a way as to avoid dishonesty and hurting others, including animals. | + | 5. [[Samma ajiva]]: [[Right livelihood]]: Support yourself without harming others. [[Right Livelihood]] means making your living in such a way as to avoid [[dishonesty]] and hurting others, [[including]] [[animals]]. |
| − | These three are referred to as Shila, or Morality. | + | These three are referred to as [[Shila]], or [[Morality]]. |
| − | Samadhi: Concentration, meditation: | + | [[Samadhi]]: [[Concentration]], [[meditation]]: |
| − | 6. Samma vayama: Right Effort: Promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts. Right Effort is a matter of exerting oneself in regards to the content of one's mind: Bad qualities should be abandoned and prevented from arising again. Good qualities should be enacted and nurtured. | + | 6. [[Samma vayama]]: [[Right Effort]]: Promote good [[thoughts]]; conquer [[evil thoughts]]. [[Right Effort]] is a {{Wiki|matter}} of exerting oneself in regards to the content of one's [[mind]]: Bad qualities should be abandoned and prevented from [[arising]] again. Good qualities should be enacted and nurtured. |
| − | 7. Samma sati: Right Mindfulness: Become aware of your body, mind and feelings. Right Mindfulness is the focusing of one's attention on one's body, feelings, thoughts, and consciousness in such a way as to overcome craving, hatred, and ignorance. | + | 7. [[Samma sati]]: [[Right Mindfulness]]: Become {{Wiki|aware}} of your [[body]], [[mind]] and [[feelings]]. [[Right Mindfulness]] is the focusing of one's [[attention]] on one's [[body]], [[feelings]], [[thoughts]], and [[consciousness]] in such a way as to overcome [[craving]], [[hatred]], and [[ignorance]]. |
| − | 8. Samma samadhi: Right Concentration: Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness. Right Concentration is meditating in such a way as to progressively realize a true understanding of imperfection, impermanence, and non-separateness | + | 8. [[Samma samadhi]]: [[Right Concentration]]: [[Meditate]] to achieve a [[higher state of consciousness]]. [[Right Concentration]] is [[meditating]] in such a way as to progressively realize a true [[understanding]] of imperfection, [[impermanence]], and non-separateness |
| − | There are, however, many sects of Buddhism and there are different kinds of Buddhist monks all over the world. The life and customs of Buddhist monks are not only different and unique but consist of a spiritual meaning. Their daily life follows a strict schedule that revolves around meditation, study of scriptures, and taking part in ceremonies. There are Buddhist shrines, Buddhist monasteries, where monks live, Gompas and Buddhist Stupas all over the world. | + | There are, however, many sects of [[Buddhism]] and there are different kinds of [[Buddhist monks]] all over the [[world]]. The [[life]] and customs of [[Buddhist monks]] are not only different and unique but consist of a [[spiritual]] meaning. Their daily [[life]] follows a strict schedule that revolves around [[meditation]], study of [[scriptures]], and taking part in {{Wiki|ceremonies}}. There are [[Buddhist shrines]], [[Buddhist monasteries]], where [[monks]] live, [[Gompas]] and [[Buddhist]] [[Stupas]] all over the [[world]]. |
| − | Though it originated in northern India, the Emperor Ashoka helped to spread Buddhism into South East Asian countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Indo-China, from where it moved on to influence people in the Himalayan kingdoms of Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, Mongolia, Central Asia as well as China, Korea, Viet Nam and Japan. | + | Though it originated in {{Wiki|northern India}}, the [[Emperor Ashoka]] helped to spread [[Buddhism]] into {{Wiki|South East Asian}} countries such as [[Sri Lanka]], [[Myanmar]], [[Thailand]] and Indo-China, from where it moved on to influence [[people]] in the [[Himalayan]] {{Wiki|kingdoms}} of [[Sikkim]], [[Bhutan]], [[Nepal]], [[Tibet]], [[Mongolia]], {{Wiki|Central Asia}} as well as [[China]], [[Korea]], [[Viet Nam]] and [[Japan]]. |
| − | Around 95 per cent of the population in Thailand is Buddhist, the highest concentration in the world, with Cambodia, Myanmar, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Viet Nam, Japan, Macao (China) and Taiwan Province of China following close behind. | + | Around 95 per cent of the population in [[Thailand]] is [[Buddhist]], the [[highest]] [[concentration]] in the [[world]], with [[Cambodia]], [[Myanmar]], [[Bhutan]], [[Sri Lanka]], [[Tibet]], Lao People's Democratic {{Wiki|Republic}}, [[Viet Nam]], [[Japan]], [[Macao]] ([[China]]) and [[Taiwan]] Province of [[China]] following close behind. |
| − | Devotees reaffirm their faith in the five principles called Panchsheel: | + | {{Wiki|Devotees}} reaffirm their [[faith]] in the five {{Wiki|principles}} called Panchsheel: |
| − | 1. Do not to take life; | + | 1. Do not to take [[life]]; |
2. Do not to steal; | 2. Do not to steal; | ||
| − | 3. Do not to commit adultery; | + | 3. Do not to commit [[adultery]]; |
| − | 4. Do not lie; | + | 4. [[Do not lie]]; |
| − | 5. Do not to consume liquor or other intoxicants. | + | 5. Do not to consume [[liquor]] or other [[intoxicants]]. |
Contributed by Ven. Phramaha Nopadol Saisuta, | Contributed by Ven. Phramaha Nopadol Saisuta, | ||
| − | Deputy Dean, Faculty of Buddhism, Mahachulalongkorn Uniserity, Thailand. | + | Deputy Dean, Faculty of [[Buddhism]], Mahachulalongkorn Uniserity, [[Thailand]]. |
| Line 163: | Line 163: | ||
| − | 1. Bhikkhu Bodhi, "The Noble Eightfold Path. The Way to the End of Suffering," Buddhist Information. http://www.buddhistinformation.com | + | 1. [[Bhikkhu Bodhi]], "The [[Noble Eightfold Path]]. The Way to the End of [[Suffering]]," [[Buddhist]] [[Information]]. http://www.buddhistinformation.com |
| − | 2. Buddhist Prayer http ://buddhi stfaith .tripod. com/buddhi stprayer/index. html | + | 2. [[Buddhist]] [[Prayer]] http ://[[buddhi]] stfaith .tripod. com/buddhi stprayer/index. html |
3. Dhammajak.net http://www.dhammajak.net | 3. Dhammajak.net http://www.dhammajak.net | ||
| − | 4. Dhammapada, a collection of 423 verses; being one of the canonical books on Buddhism http://www.maithri.com/dhammapada | + | 4. [[Dhammapada]], a collection of 423 verses; being one of the [[Wikipedia:canonical|canonical]] [[books]] on [[Buddhism]] http://www.maithri.com/dhammapada |
| − | 5. Essentials of Buddhism http://www.buddhaweb. org | + | 5. [[Essentials]] of [[Buddhism]] http://www.buddhaweb. org |
| − | 6. Guy Newland, Untitled essay http://www.chsbs.cmich.edu | + | 6. [[Guy Newland]], Untitled essay http://www.chsbs.cmich.edu |
| − | 7. Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University http://www.mcu.ac.th/En | + | 7. [[Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University]] http://www.mcu.ac.th/En |
| − | 8. Pali Tipitaka http://www.tipitaka.org | + | 8. [[Pali Tipitaka]] http://www.tipitaka.org |
| − | 9. Thomas Knierim, "The Precepts" http://www.thebigview.com | + | 9. Thomas Knierim, "The [[Precepts]]" http://www.thebigview.com |
10. Website 8400.org http://www.84000.org | 10. Website 8400.org http://www.84000.org | ||
| Line 187: | Line 187: | ||
{{R}} | {{R}} | ||
| − | [[Category: | + | [[Category:Buddhism]] |
| + | [[Category:Buddhism in United States]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:14, 28 December 2020
THE BUDDHIST CORE VALUES AND PERSPECTIVES FOR PROTECTION CHALLENGES: FAITH AND PROTECTION
I. THE BACKGROUND OF BUDDHISM
Buddhism, like most of the great religions of the world, is divided into a number of different traditions. However, most traditions share a common set of fundamental beliefs.
One central belief of Buddhism is often referred to as reincarnation -- the concept that people are reborn after dying. In fact, most individuals go through many cycles of birth, living, death and rebirth. A practicing Buddhist differentiates between the concepts of rebirth and reincarnation.
In reincarnation, the individual may recur repeatedly. In rebirth, a person does not necessarily return to Earth as the same entity ever again. He compares it to a leaf growing on a tree. When the withering leaf falls off, a new leaf will eventually replace it. It is similar to the old leaf, but it is not identical to the original leaf.
Buddhism is a philosophy of life expounded by Gautama Buddha ("Buddha" means "enlightened one"), who lived and taught in northern India in the 6th century B.C. The Buddha was not a god and the philosophy of Buddhism does not entail any theistic world view. The teachings of the Buddha are aimed solely at liberating sentient beings from suffering.
The Basic Teachings of Buddha which are core to Buddhism are:
• The Three Universal Truths; • The Four Noble Truths; and • The Noble Eightfold Path. II. THE THREE UNIVERSAL TRUTHS 1. Nothing is lost in the universe 2. Everything Changes 3. The Law of Cause and Effect
In Buddhism, the law of karma, says "for every event that occurs, there will follow another event whose existence was caused by the first, and this second event will be pleasant or unpleasant according as its cause was skillful or unskillful." Therefore, the law of Karma teaches that the responsibility for unskillful actions is borne by the person who commits them.
After his enlightenment, the Buddha went to the Deer Park near the holy city of Benares and shared his new understanding with five holy men. They understood immediately and became his disciples. This marked the beginning of the Buddhist community. For the next forty-five years, the Buddha and his disciples went from place to place in India spreading the Dharma, his teachings. Their compassion knew no bounds; they helped everyone along the way, beggars, kings and slave girls. At night, they would sleep where they were; when hungry they would ask for a little food.
Wherever the Buddha went, he won the hearts of the people because he dealt with their true feelings. He advised them not to accept his words on blind faith, but to decide for themselves whether his teachings are right or wrong, then follow them. He encouraged everyone to have compassion for each other and develop their own virtue: "You should do your own work, for I can teach only the way."
Once, the Buddha and his disciple Ananda visited a monastery where a monk was suffering from a contagious disease. The poor man lay in a mess with no one looking after him. The Buddha himself washed the sick monk and placed him on a new bed. Afterwards, he admonished the other monks: "Monks, you have neither mother nor father to look after you. If you do not look after each other, who will look after you? Whoever serves the sick and suffering, serves me."
After many such cycles, if a person releases their attachment to desire and the self, they can attain Nirvana. This is a state of liberation and freedom from suffering.
The three trainings or practices
These three consist of:
1. Sila: Virtue, good conduct, morality. This is based on two fundamental principles: The principle of equality: that all living entities are equal. The principle of reciprocity: This is the "Golden Rule" in Christianity - to do unto others as you would wish them to do unto you. It is found in all major religions.
2. Samadhi: Concentration, meditation, mental development. Developing one's mind is the path to wisdom which, in turn, leads to personal freedom. Mental development also strengthens and controls our mind; this helps us maintain good conduct.
3. Prajna: Discernment, insight, wisdom, enlightenment. This is the real heart of Buddhism. Wisdom will emerge if your mind is pure and calm.
The first two paths listed in the Eightfold Path, described below, refer to discernment; the last three belong to concentration; the middle three are related to virtue.
III. THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS
The Buddha's Four Noble Truths explore human suffering. They may be described (somewhat simplistically) as:
1. Dukkha: Suffering exists: Life is suffering. Suffering is real and almost universal. Suffering has many causes: loss, sickness, pain, failure, and the impermanence of pleasure.
2. Samudaya: There is a cause of suffering. Suffering is due to attachment. It is the desire to have and control things. It can take many forms: craving of sensual pleasures; the desire for fame; the desire to avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy.
3. Nirodha: There is an end to suffering. Attachment can be overcome. Suffering ceases with the final liberation of Nirvana (Nibbana). The mind experiences complete freedom, liberation and non-attachment. It lets go of any desire or craving.
4. Magga: In order to end suffering, you must follow the Eightfold Path. There is a path for accomplishing this.
The five precepts
These are rules to live by. They are somewhat analogous to the second half of the Ten Commandments in Judaism and Christianity -- that part of the Decalogue which describes behaviors to avoid. However, they are recommendations, not commandments. Believers are expected to use their own intelligence in deciding exactly how to apply these rules:
1. Do not kill. This is sometimes translated as "not harming" or an absence of violence.
2. Do not steal. This is generally interpreted as including the avoidance of fraud and economic exploitation.
3. Do not lie. This is sometimes interpreted as including name-calling, gossip, etc.
4. Do not misuse sex. For monks and nuns, this means any departure from complete celibacy. For the laity, adultery is forbidden, along with any sexual harassment or exploitation, including that within marriage. The Buddha did not discuss consensual premarital sex within a committed relationship, thus, Buddhist traditions differ on this. Most Buddhists, probably influenced by their local cultures, condemn same-sex sexual activity regardless of the nature of the relationship between the people involved.
5. Do not consume alcohol or other drugs. The main concern here is that intoxicants cloud the mind. Some have included as a drug other methods of divorcing ourselves from reality -- e.g. movies, television, and the Internet.
Those preparing for monastic life or who are not within a family are expected to avoid an additional five activities:
6. Taking untimely meals. 7. Dancing, singing, music, watching grotesque mime. 8. Use of garlands, perfumes and personal adornment. 9. Use of high seats. 10. Accepting gold or silver.
There is also a series of eight precepts which are composed of the first seven listed above, followed by the eighth and ninth combined as one. "Ordained Theravada monks promise to follow 227 precepts!"
IV. THE EIGHTFOLD PATH
The Buddha's Eightfold Path consists of:
1. Samma ditthi: Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths. Right View is the true understanding of the four noble truths. 2. Samma sankappa: Right thinking; following the right path in life. Right Aspiration is the true desire to free oneself from attachment, ignorance, and hatefulness.
These two are referred to as Prajna, or Wisdom.
3. Samma vaca: Right speech: No lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language. Right Speech involves abstaining from lying, gossiping, or hurtful talk. 4. Samma kammanta Right conduct or Right Action involves abstaining from hurtful behaviors, such as killing, stealing, and careless sex. These are called the Five Precepts. 5. Samma ajiva: Right livelihood: Support yourself without harming others. Right Livelihood means making your living in such a way as to avoid dishonesty and hurting others, including animals.
These three are referred to as Shila, or Morality.
Samadhi: Concentration, meditation:
6. Samma vayama: Right Effort: Promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts. Right Effort is a matter of exerting oneself in regards to the content of one's mind: Bad qualities should be abandoned and prevented from arising again. Good qualities should be enacted and nurtured.
7. Samma sati: Right Mindfulness: Become aware of your body, mind and feelings. Right Mindfulness is the focusing of one's attention on one's body, feelings, thoughts, and consciousness in such a way as to overcome craving, hatred, and ignorance.
8. Samma samadhi: Right Concentration: Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness. Right Concentration is meditating in such a way as to progressively realize a true understanding of imperfection, impermanence, and non-separateness
There are, however, many sects of Buddhism and there are different kinds of Buddhist monks all over the world. The life and customs of Buddhist monks are not only different and unique but consist of a spiritual meaning. Their daily life follows a strict schedule that revolves around meditation, study of scriptures, and taking part in ceremonies. There are Buddhist shrines, Buddhist monasteries, where monks live, Gompas and Buddhist Stupas all over the world.
Though it originated in northern India, the Emperor Ashoka helped to spread Buddhism into South East Asian countries such as Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand and Indo-China, from where it moved on to influence people in the Himalayan kingdoms of Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, Tibet, Mongolia, Central Asia as well as China, Korea, Viet Nam and Japan.
Around 95 per cent of the population in Thailand is Buddhist, the highest concentration in the world, with Cambodia, Myanmar, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Viet Nam, Japan, Macao (China) and Taiwan Province of China following close behind.
Devotees reaffirm their faith in the five principles called Panchsheel:
1. Do not to take life;
2. Do not to steal;
3. Do not to commit adultery;
4. Do not lie;
5. Do not to consume liquor or other intoxicants.
Contributed by Ven. Phramaha Nopadol Saisuta,
Deputy Dean, Faculty of Buddhism, Mahachulalongkorn Uniserity, Thailand.
References:
1. Bhikkhu Bodhi, "The Noble Eightfold Path. The Way to the End of Suffering," Buddhist Information. http://www.buddhistinformation.com
2. Buddhist Prayer http ://buddhi stfaith .tripod. com/buddhi stprayer/index. html
3. Dhammajak.net http://www.dhammajak.net
4. Dhammapada, a collection of 423 verses; being one of the canonical books on Buddhism http://www.maithri.com/dhammapada
5. Essentials of Buddhism http://www.buddhaweb. org
6. Guy Newland, Untitled essay http://www.chsbs.cmich.edu
7. Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University http://www.mcu.ac.th/En
8. Pali Tipitaka http://www.tipitaka.org
9. Thomas Knierim, "The Precepts" http://www.thebigview.com
10. Website 8400.org http://www.84000.org
