Miracles

Question : (Unedited)

Every sentence said by Buddha makes sense and fits perfectly even in today's modern life. As all Buddha said makes sense, how will he explain miracles, those does not make sense and are supernatural? How will a Buddhist explain miracles performed by Jesus?

My comment:

Hi Fr,

There are a few definitions of "miracle" from the dictionaries. 　The most relevent one for your question will be "an effect or extraordinary event in the physical world that surpasses all known human or natural powers and is ascribed to a supernatural cause". 　

During the Buddha's time, he had also performed "miraculous feats" like emitting fire on one side of his body and water on the other side. 　He had what we called supernatural powers. 　In our daily lives we have either witnessed or experienced unusual events. 　In fact most of these unusual events in the end could be explained rationally. 　That leaves only a very few unexplainable events. 　Buddhists are aware of the existence of beings in other planes of existence. 　Some of these beings have special powers over worldly affairs and they may "intervene" in the conduct of our worldly affairs, for some reasons or the other. 　For lack of a better term, we may say they are like our "guardian angels". 　

As for miracles performed by Jesus, I think it will be more appropriate if you ask the Christians. 　

Exact date of Buddha's death

Question : (Unedited)

Dear Sir,
I happened to learn that the exact date of Buddha's death is not known even though we commemorate it on a certain fixed date of the year. Why is there a debate on this one? Is it because people in the past were not that intelligent to keep track of events and modern scientists are more advanced?

I want to know the date that is mostly accepted and any shortcomings of the scientific researches performed on this, if any.

Thanks in advance

My comment:

Hi Ch,

Thank you for asking me.

The day is called "Wesak Day" or "Buddha Day". 　It is the thrice sacred day of the birth, enlightenment and passing away (parinibbana) of the Buddha. 　At the sixth World Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) held in Phnom Pehn, Cambodia, in 1961, the conference resolved:
"That the first full moon day of May be recognized as the 'Buddha Day' and celebrated accordingly." 　The month of May corresponds with the month of Visaka of the Indian calendar. 　It was in the full moon day of Visaka that the thrice blessed events took place.

Ghosts and aliens

Question : (Unedited)

do buddhists beliee in ghosts or even aliens, if so what r they then?

My comment:

Hi T,

The Buddha spoke of beings in existence in different planes of existence in our world system. 　There are countless other world systems where beings may exist. 　The universe is endless, beyond our imagination and reckoning. 　The Buddha called the universe "loka dhatu" and the world system "cakkavala" spiral cosmos. 　

In our world system there exists 31 planes of existence (depending on classification, the number of planes differ; but all the planes are included). 　We as humans occupy one plane, sharing with animals which is considered a separate plane. 　There are ghosts plane which in itself is a form of existence. 　The higher planes will be the planes of gods whose life spans are unimaginably long. 　In our terminology "aliens" would be those beings from other world systems. 　All these planes of existence, although with very different conditions and life span are all subject to impermanence. 　All life forms come into life, exist for a period, and ultimately disintegrate. 　Apart from human and animal planes, the other planes exist in different dimensions. 　That is why only very few people could see ghosts.

Why worry?

Question : (Unedited)

I'm in a really tight spot financially 　- working poor, as I've heard it called. 　I worry almost all day every day about it, about how to make it work, even though the math shows it won't. I can't find an out, no matter how I figure it - at least for now. 　There's alway hope for the future. 　My mind seems to be grasping on this and can't let go, but is this irrational? I try to work hard to appreciate the beauty of each moment, the breeze on my skin, or my sleeping kitty's contentment, but then my mind runs into the rut of my worry again. 　What do Buddhist teachings say about dealing with this? 　Imminent homelessness or hunger seem like real things to worry about. 　

I hope you can give me some insights that may help me be peaceful.

Thanks.

My comment:

Hi J,

Everyone has worries. 　Even the super rich have worries. 　It is the price that we pay for feeling insecure, real and/or imaginary. 　As for your situation, your worries may be real. 　However we should take into considerations of your "status" in life at present; namely your location, age, ability to work, and family status. 　If you are in an affluent country, I would say it is not as bad as if you are in a poor and "unstable" country. If you are young, then time is at your advantage. 　If you are qualified or at least able bodied, then you still can continue working. What about family? 　You see all these factors have to be taken into account. 　Most probably your worries are real and justified. 　On a more mundane approach, if you already know your problems, then half of it is solved because you have identified the root cause of your worries. 　The practical approach is to strive to earn more and at the same time try to save more.

On a more philosophical note, you have to accept that worrying is part of life. 　But if you have put in effort to minimize your "problem" then you have also to try to lessen your worries. 　"Worrying" is a mental "sickness". 　It is due to the fear of the situation. 　This fear can be real or imaginary. 　It does not matter. 　So long as you allow this fear to dwell in your mind, the mind will be eventually become a slave of this fear. 　The more you dwell on it, the more it enslaves you. 　It is just like a bad habit. 　You will need a strong and understanding mind to overcome this bad habit. 　The Christians have a very effective way to overcome fear and problems. 　They have complete faith and trust in Jesus. 　Whether Jesus really helps or not is irrelevant. 　The fact that the person's mind becomes strong with this faith, the fear and worry disappear! 　In the Buddhist context, we have to face facts and note the problem. 　Having identified the problem we have to make effort to remedy it. 　Having done that there is nothing more that we can do. 　If we know that we have done our best, then when the worry thoughts return we just note the thoughts, acknowledge them and then let them go because you know you have already taken positive actions. There is no need to worry anymore. Keep on repeating this response whenever such thoughts appear. 　After some time the mind will get tired of these worry thoughts because you refuse to dwell on them. 　In no time you will be free from this worry. 　The thoughts will return to haunt you, but each time you just note and let them pass...Period...Fullstop.

Of course if you believe in chanting, then some chanting will give you confidence and peace of mind.

And some more questions!

Question : (Unedited)

Hi again my dear friend,
I hope you are fine. Now I have understood the difference between a begger and a monk, to some extent. Now there come some new questions for you:

You have said

“The Dhamma cannot be destroyed. 　It is Universal Truth, which transcends race, nationality, belief, time and space.
Could anybody besides the Buddha find spiritual liberation and ultimate release? If your answer is positive, what`s TTB`s idea about them? 
It is "very easy". When that person is COMPLETELY rid of greed, hatred and delusion.”

When a Buddhist becomes a Buddha, will he himself experience the Dhamma straightly?
Do Buddhists think that it is only their way that leads to the Truth? Or they think that other ways like Jainists` way (Just as an example) may lead to the Truth too?
And my unanswered question “Don`t you think that the Dhamma was taught once by the Buddha, and it doesn`t need to be taught again? (Unless you believe that Buddha was not a fine teacher.) Everyone who is interested in Dhamma can study the Tipitika and learn the way to reach Nirvana. (With no need to a teacher.)”

Anyway, I really THANK YOU for your answers.

My comments:

Hi A,

"When a Buddhist becomes a Buddha, will he himself experience the Dhamma straightly?"

The appearance of a Buddha is very very rare. 　When the Dhamma or universal truth is lost, then a Buddha will appear and re-discover it. 　This will take an unimaginable long period of time...an aeon or several aeons. 　To be liberated, one need not have to become a Buddha. 　As I said if one is completely rid of greed, hatred and delusion, then the person has cut away the craving of attachment, there is no more rebirth. 　During this period where the Dhamma has been revealed, there will not be any Buddha. 　We need only to practise his teachings to gain 　liberation; such a person is called an arahat (arahant), in English for lack of a better term, "a saint". 　The Buddha had revealed the way to liberation. 　It is up to the person whether to practise it or not. 　Whether it is the only way, if the person understands the Dhamma, he will know the answer. 　It is not necessary for anyone to insist that it is the only way , and others are wrong. 　You see, we have to melow our mindset a bit to be more flexible and accommodating in our thinking, even when practising the Buddha's teachings. 　

"And my unanswered question

“Don`t you think that the Dhamma was taught once by the Buddha, and it doesn`t need to be taught again? (Unless you believe that Buddha was not a fine teacher.) Everyone who is interested in Dhamma can study the Tipitika and learn the way to reach Nirvana. (With no need to a teacher.)"
It is not that I have not answered your question. 　If you read all my comments, the answer is in them. 　So long as the Dhamma is still here, I don't see any need for anyone to "rediscover" and repeat what is already there. 　However, I would say, we still need teachers to teach us and guide us through. 　It's just like say, learning the English language. 　Anyone can learn it by himself. 　But you would agree with me that everyone will want to find an English language teacher to teach him.

Hope you are happy with the answers. 　Please come back if need be.

Lots of questions

Question : (Unedited)
Hi again my dear friend,
I hope you are fine. Thanks a lot for the sites you introduced.

You have left one of the questions I asked unanswered: “You had said “The monks are the GUARDIANCE of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings).”
How can they be the guardiance of the Dhamma if they are not allowed to defend the Dhamma?”

You have said “The Buddha was never a begger!! 　We refer the giving of "alms food" to the monks as Dana. 　They never come begging from us. 　It is our willingness to provide them with the daily sustenance.”
How can you tell the difference between a begger and a monk if they dress like each other? (This question is being seriously asked. Please don`t take it as a joke.)

You have said “There were a lot of ascetics who wandered everywhere practising different forms of "spiritual ascetism". 　These people concentrated their whole lives in search of the "ultimate release". 　They lead a "carefree" life and the lay people would support them by offering them food. 　This was the way to follow when one wanted to find spiritual liberation. 　The Buddha merely followed that tradition and for good reason.”

A mistake, even if it becomes a tradition is still a mistake. For example marrying a child was an ACCEPTABLE TRADITION in Saudi Arabia 1400 years ago (Muhammad, the Prophet!! Himself had married a 9 year old girl named Aisha) But being a tradition doesn`t wash that mistake clean.
And I know that Buddha was against the ascetism and he preached the Middle Way.
A New Question
Could anybody besides the Buddha find spiritual liberation and ultimate release? If your answer is positive, what`s TTB`s idea about them?

You have said “Even today this tradition is followed. 　The lay people understand this traditional practice and always support the monks.”

That`s why most (meaning not all and not all because Buddhist culture is being combined by other countries cultures like Chinese and Japanese) of the Buddhist countries are economically poor.
And an interesting point about that Arabic-Islamic tradition. Even today, that tradition is still followed in some Islamic countries.

You have said “It is the Buddhist culture that we support the monks by providing them the material necessities while they concentrate on their spiritual cultivation and teaching us the Dhamma (Budhha's teachings).”

The Dhamma was taught once by Buddha, and it doesn`t need to be taught again. (Unless you believe that Buddha was not a fine teacher.) Everyone who is interested in Dhamma can study the Tipitika.

You have siad “Please be patient with your "learning" process.”
I`ve been patient for 2 years now and i`ll try to be in the future.

You have said “I take the liberty to assume that you are from a very different culture and are just being exposed to Buddhist tradition.”
That`s true, that`s very very true.

You have said “Once you are familiar with the Buddhist traditions, a lot of your doubts will gradually disappear.”
I hope so.

Anyway, I really THANK YOU for your answers.

My comments:

Hi A,
Welcome back, and thank you for not being disappointed with my "answers". 　One day will come when you will understand why some questions cannot be satisfactorilly answered for that particular person. 　I can try my best to provide you with the "answers" but you may not agree with me. 　So the best diplomatic compromise is "agree to disagree", at least for the time being. 　Please be patient. 　So long as we do not enter into argument, there will be "light at the end of the tunnel".

Coming back to your questions:

<>
To defend the Dhamma doesn't mean being intolerant of others' opposition. 　It means to preserve the purity of the Dhamma and to teach the Dhamma. 　We do not have to kill others who want to destroy the Dhamma. 　The Dhamma cannot be destroyed. 　It is Universal Truth, which transcends race, nationality, belief, time and space. 　To defend the Dhamma is also to practise the Dhamma.

<>
Yes, this is a "problem" for those who are not familiar with Buddhist tradition. 　A lot of so-called Buddhists fall victims to this scam. 　But it is very easy to identify the real monks. 　Theravada monks go for alms round early in the morning, definitely before noon. 　They don't walk around begging for food. 　If they go "house-to-house" they will not skip any house. 　They will stand silently in front of the door with the alms bowl in hand. 　After a minute or so, if no response, they will move on to the next house. 　This traditional practice is only common in Northern Thailand, where the society understands the practice. 　The more common is for the monks to stand on one spot in a market place with alms bowl in hand, and to accept whatever alms food offered ...definitely not money...only food. 　When enough food is received, the monks will return to where they came from. 　

< It is "very easy". 　When that person is COMPLETELY rid of greed, hatred and delusion.

<>
These poor Asian countries happen to be so-called "Buddhist" countries. 　They are poor not because they are "Buddhists". There is no Buddhist country in this world. 　There may be countries which have a large proportion of Buddhists. 　The Government of Thailand refused to enact into law that Buddhism is the "official" religion.

<
“Please be patient with your "learning" process.”
I`ve been patient for 2 years now and i`ll try to be in the future.>>
I am still learning the teachings of the Buddha after 50 years!! 　

The journey will be a long but rewarding one. 　As we travel along the path, we learn to experience happiness and inner peace through the three processes of learning, practising, and experiencing the positive results. 　With this experiencing, it further encourages us to put more effort to continue learning and practising. The final destination may be unreachable but the journey itself is a lesson in life. 　Have a pleasant journey.

<< You have said
“Once you are familiar with the Buddhist traditions, a lot of your doubts will gradually disappear.”
I hope so.>>
Have patience and resilience. 　The truth will prevail, so they say!!

Middle way in simple language

Question : (Unedited)

please explain the middle way in clear simple sentences

My comment:

Hi T,

The Buddha's teachings are very practical and down to earth and are meant for everyone. It is so because it is based on universal truth that transcends race, nationality, location, space and time. He preached kindness and compassion based on universal truth. He was not interested to convert anyone. He just emphasized that we must avoid committing evil deeds because we, ourselves, are very fearful that others may hurt us. On this premise alone we can just use our common sense and fair judgement that it is not fair to hurt others. We must have this human dignity to conduct our lives in this dignified manner.

On the other hand, we always wish that all good and happy things come our way. Knowing that, it is also fair that others should be given a fair chance to enjoy good and happy lives.

Do we need any more creed, commandment, or threat in order to live in a civilized manner? It is only when others demand that we must believe in their dogmas or else hell will befall them, that the world is in trouble.

As a practising Buddhist, I just have to live my life guided by the 5 precepts, which I repeat here:
1)Refrain from killing
2)Refrain from stealing
3)Refrain from sexual misconduct
4)Refrain from telling lies
5)Refrain from taking intoxicating things
The Buddha advised us to keep these 5 precepts to the best of our ability, and we will be able to live in peace with ourselves. What others do, or do not do, is their business. We cannot change the whole world. But we can change our lives if we want to.

Our life's trilogy is this:
I want
I don't want
I don't know

If I get what I want I will be very happy. The more I get the more I want; I become greedy.

I don't want things that give me sorrow. If I get things that I don't want, I become very angry. The more bad things I get, the angrier I become, the more hateful I become.

I am subject to such uncontrolled reactions because of "I don't know". I don't know the true nature of this world and this life. Because of this ignorance, the vicious cycle goes round and round. I get greedy, I get angry, because of my ignorance in life. Our lives revolve around this trilogy of human tragedy.

Unless we change our mind-set, we will suffer through our own ignorance and stupidity. The whole world is such.

The Buddha's message is very simple: Reduce our greed, reduce our hatred, reduce our ignorance by realizing the message of the Buddha. Then we will have inner peace and happiness.

This is the "Middle Way".

Is there a soul?

Question : (Unedited)

do buddhists believe that there is a soul?

My comment:

Hi T,

First we have to define what is "soul". 　I take it as meaning "a continuity of the same permanent self that exists after death". 　

The three characteristics of all phenomena or existence are impermanence, unsatisfactoriness and insubstantiality, which I had mentioned before. 　The third characteristic is also explained as "no-soul". 　The Pali term is "anatta"..."no self". 　The Buddha's teachings stand aloft in this concept of "anatta".

A physical being is composed of the physical body and consciousness which is a form of energy. 　This "etheral energy" gives live to form. 　Without this energy the form is dead. 　However when this physical form is worn out and fails to function, the etheral energy takes on another form to start a new cycle. 　This process is called rebirth.
"Rebith" takes on a totally different perspective. 　It views existence as an on-going process, just like the electric current lighting up a bulb. 　The "bulb" is like the physical body. 　When this bulb is blown, the current is still there and when a new bulb is fixed on, it lights up again. 　So you can see that there is a continuity in the electric current, but the current flowing through is not the same at any one moment. 　Our existence is in this state of flux. 　When the body is dead, the life energy seeks another form to "reborn". 　The type of rebirth will depend on the nature of this store-house of life energy. 　If this store-house of energy has more wholesome characteristics, then it will seek rebirth in a more conducive environment. 　On the other hand, if it has more negative characteristics, then its rebirth will be in a more unwholesome environment. 　As the life force is always in a flux, there is no permanent and unchanging soul, but a changing personality that exists throughout. 　To describe this process of rebirth, the Buddha used the term "Not exactly the same, yet not totally different". 　Another example will be a lighted candle. 　It is not the same light that we see, but not totally different.

Buddha a begger ?

(Buddha image with alms bowl)

Question : (Unedited)

According to the Pali Canon texts, Buddha was a begger-man and he encouraged others (his followers) to go begging for food. Don`t you think there is a problem here? When a person is healthy, he has healthy hands and healthy feet, why shouldn`t he work to earn his food? Doesn`t Buddhism hurt economics by developing beggers? The society already has children, handicapped people and old-men and women as consumers who don`t produce anything. Don`t you think by putting healthy people as monks in the category of cosumers it will hurt economics and economical self-reliance?

My comment:

The Buddha was never a begger!! 　You also need to have a little background knowledge of the Indian society during the Buddha's time. 　Long before the Buddha's time Indian civilization was already very well established. 　The society was controlled by the Brahmins (high caste priests) who practised Brahmanism, the present day Hinduism. 　There were a lot of ascetics who wandered everywhere practising different forms of "spiritual ascetism". 　These people concentrated their whole lives in search of the "ultimate release". 　They lead 　a "carefree" life and the lay people would support them by offering them food. 　This was the way to follow when one wanted to find spiritual liberation. 　The Buddha merely followed that tradition and for good reason. 　Even today this tradition is followed. 　The lay people understand this traditional practice and always support the monks. 　It is the Buddhist culture that we support the monks by providing them the material necessities while they concentrate on their spiritual cultivation and teaching us the Dhamma (Budhha's teachings). 　We refer the giving of "alms food" to the monks as Dana. 　They never come begging from us. 　It is our willingness to provide them with the daily sustenance. 　Please be patient with your "learning" process. 　I take the liberty to assume that you are from a very different culture and are just being exposed to Buddhist tradition. 　If I am wrong please accept my apology. 　Once you are familiar with the Buddhist traditions, a lot of your doubts will gradually disappear.

Wishing you peace and happiness :-)

Why hospitals have sick people?

Question : (Unedited)

what does buddhism say about evil in the world?... why is there evil in the world?

My comments:

Hi T,

It is in the first Noble Truth..."that existence is unsatisfactory" (Dukkha)

It is the very nature of this world...everything is impermanent, everything is unsatisfactory because of this impermanence, and everything is a reflection of the true nature of this existence which is of no substance. 　These are the three characteristics of existence : impermanence, unsatisfactoriness, insubstantiality (Anicca, Dukkha, Anatta).

It is just like asking the following questions:
Why do all the hospitals have sick people?
Why do all jails have prisoners?

Smile from justinchoo :-)

The cycle of existence

Question : (Unedited)

do buddhists believe in evolutionism or creationism ?.... im guessing evolutionism because the orgin of the world that buddha tought is that life evolved from simple to complex organisms over millions of years?

My comment:

Hi T,

Our present existence is but a cycle of "creation, evolution, and destruction". 　In astronomy, scientists could observe this "phenomenon" of creation, evolution and destruction of planets and stars. 　There is no beginning and end. 　It is a perpetual cycle. 　It has been like this in time immemorial and will be likewise forever, ad infinitum.

Within one cycle, there is the "creation" of world systems. 　Life appears from other planes of existence and evolves. 　The cycle will again go through the stages of "creation, evolution, dissolution, and destruction".

At this point in time, countless world systems go through the different phases of this cycle of existence. 　Ask any astro scientist and he will confirm this truth. 　The Buddha, with his mind power (omniscience) could see through all these phenomena.

My Teacher, K Sri Dhammananda's last talk.

(Ven. K Sri Dhammananda)


The article below came through a forwarded email today. Ven. K Sri Dhammananda was my Buddhist teacher. What I learned about Buddhism mainly came from him. During the 1980s I used to attend his Friday talk without fail, from 8pm to past 9pm. For more than one year, every Friday evening, Chief Reverend, as he was fondly addressed by all devotees, graciously answered all the questions I submitted to him. That was where I learned my Buddhism with full confidence; and am now able to share with others by answering their questions through "All Experts.com". 

I am sure the person who initiated this email has posted the authentic last talk by Chief Reverend. I don't think he/she has any reason to do otherwise. From my experience with Chief Reverend's manner of speaking, the article below should be authentically his.

The subject of his final talk was fittingly appropriate given his physical condition then. I hope everyone who cares to read this can contemplate wisely the message of Chief Reverend .

Anicca Vatta Sankhara : All Component Things Are Impermanent.

The Buddha's final advice:

vayadhammā saṅkhārā appamādena sampādetha

All compounded things, all experiences (mental and physical), all phenomena by their very nature decay and die, and are disappointing: it is through being not-blind-drunk on, obsessed by, or infatuated with, the objects of the senses that you succeed in awakening, or obtain liberation.

Or more succinctly:

All things are disappointing, [it is] through vigilance [that] you succeed.

Strive on with diligence.

************************************

This is The Late Chief Reverend of Brickfield, Most Ven K Sri Dhammananda very last dhamma talk at the Maha Vihara given on the 7th July 2006 and he came as always when they rang the bell at 8.10pm into the PH Henry hall but this time in his wheel chair.

___________________________________

*Human Life ( last talk by Chief Priest , Maha Vihara, 7.7.2006)*
"Dear devotees actually I never thought I would have the chance to see and talk to you , half of my body is dead, but my heart , my mind still has energy . What is this diseased body , is it life? Its not life , its the house , life is the energy , mental, kammic and cosmic all joined together as "energy ", that is life.

Body is decayed and life goes away .Actually we must be happy when time comes to depart without suffering , to crave so much for the body , we spend our whole life decorating , looking after it , one day it decays and when energy and the elements dissipate then mental energy will build another house . Life started with mental energy and then birth occurs . Every single child cries , none smiles after birth . Life is suffering we are using whole amounts of energy to maintain this physical body , but one day we have to depart .Then leaves solidity and fluidity ~ 2 elements only , heat and motion has gone. 

Christians and Muslims are particular about the body as they believe in resurrection , we do not believe that there is anything in this physical body . Spend thousands on funerals , but the departed never get anything. Only way to support the departed , you must know how to make use of this life , that is why religion is needed to help us to cultivate compassion , sympathy and kindness and supporting others.

David Morris sent me a letter , he said there are 2 reasons to be happy as an old man , (1) he will be free from pain and suffering . (2) Ever since he became a Buddhist he has tried his best to maintain and uphold the 5 precepts , if there is another life it won't be an unfortunate one as he departs with confidence .
In the end the dying man takes no solace in dancing and singing , only meritorious deeds will you get confidence and this will support the kammic energy in the rebirth . Must know how to handle life , by doing service to others to help release their suffering . Many die with fear and confusion in mind , can't take rebirth in upper realm . Meditation is important to maintain purity . Prince Siddharta when he was born there were 5 astrologers invited to predict his fate, 4 said that he would either grow up to be a sage or monarch . Last one said definitely a sage . When craving and attachment is completely removed , mind is then completely pure .This body is not life . Its a house built by energy and 4 cosmic elements. Unfortunately in the past 2500 years , Buddhists in Asia have introduced a lot of rites and rituals, never introduced by the Buddha.Just keep away from evil by reducing anger, jealousy enmity , try to do meritorious deeds, try to develop the mind through understanding. Try to purify the mind.

If you are cruel hot tempered or stingy try your best to take this out . If you pray to God to take this out do you think God can do that? Buddha can't also , but he can tell you how to do that . War is declared by the human mind, peace also comes from our minds , not from heaven nor from God.
First by understanding without believing , when you develop a right understanding , then you can carry on a religious way of life . When you doubt , you think , investigate, accept or reject . Others say if there is doubt, then God will punish you.


All over the world different schools have sprung up and they follow their own traditions which they have maintained for a long time . Buddha had rejected old traditions , but it was introduced to the primitive narrow minded people . People in Asian countries don't study the dharma.
Next do Good . Reduce the anger and do something to train the mind through
right understanding . Change the mind , through your own experience you can understand right and wrong.
I have been in Malaysia for 53 years , used to have even no room to sleep. The Chinese were the main Buddhists here and through Buddhist societies we made them understand what Buddhism is.
My mind mental and life energy is still active but I am half way dead , you must know how to do this . Although the end of my life is now near , I have no fear. Arahants can disconnect mind from body to experience nibbanic bliss and at that time you cannot tell if they are dead or alive , their bodies are still warm and their complexions will remain ruddy . They can do that for 1 week at the most. Remember there are 4 kinds of happiness: (1)Happiness of Possession - In owing your own property , your house , land , business , bank account. (2)Happiness of Enjoyment - Using what you have earned you can enjoy good food , nice house,nice dress without abusing, bluffing, cheating others. (3)Happiness of Debtlessness - Try best not to borrow from others , spend within your own means, you gain self respect. (4)Happiness of Blamelessness - Try to lead life without doing harm to anybody.

These 4 kinds of happiness must be with you . Don't be lazy do some work , do not neglect what you have earned, maintain and protect what you have earned , then you can decide what to do including adopting a Buddhist way of life up to arahant , know how to adjust your way of life , how to associate with others , who are they ?Associate with good people ,not harmful wicked people .Support your father and mother ,look after your wife and children, don't neglect relatives, help them . Develop your mind to the extent that you are not shaken by the 8 winds of change, praise /blame , fame /shame , gain /loss , pleasure /pain and treat all the same , then at this stage nothing will affect you." All meetings end in partings
That which rises must fall
That which is collected will be dispersed
Birth ends with death

Beginning of humans

Question : (Unedited) what do buddhists believe about the orgin of people... what do buddhits say about where people came from into this world? My comment: 　 There is a discourse where the Buddha explained the "evolution" or the "beginning" of life. However this "beginning" was  just the beginning of endless cycles of existence stretching for an unimaginable and incalculable long periods of time; for lack of a better word it is called an aeon for one such cycle. 　Unless you are familiar with Buddhist teachings, you are not going to believe this. 　Be that as it may, the story goes like this: 　Long long ago, luminous beings having descended to earth from a higher plane of existence, found that on the surface of the planet was a layer of very aromatic substance. 　They decided to taste it and subsequently was addicted to it. 　 After a long time they lost their luminosity and supernatural powers, and their forms evolved into what we are today. This was the result of having tasted the "forbidden elixir"....sounds familiar?? Smile from justinchoo :-)

Survey on 911 tragedy (Buddhist perspective)

 

This came via email:

 

Hi there Justin, and “Sawasdee Kha” as we say in my home country of Thailand (although I live in the USA now).

This is Srisuda Hongthai from The Buddha Garden and I wanted you to know that we are conducting a survey on Buddhism in the ten years since the 9/11 Tragedies. I don't know what impacts the 9/11 attacks had on your home country of Malaysia. But here in the USA, many people found solace in the teachings of Buddhism after 9/11. The survey is at:

http://www.thebuddhagarden.com/911survey/

Wouldn’t it be great to know why so many people become interested in Buddhism after the 9/11 attacks? Does Buddhism still play a role in their lives ten years after the attacks? How do the attitudes of new Buddhists differ from those who were Buddhists before 9/11?

No matter how long you have been interested in Buddhism, we encourage you to take this survey yourself. The fact that you DON'T live here in the USA is even better, since it will help to add diversity to the responses.

We also kindly ask that you will join other webmasters like you by telling your readers about the survey and encouraging them to take it as well. You would be doing a great service to the Dharma community.

Will you kindly let us know if you will be joining hundreds of like-minded bloggers and webmasters by linking to the survey, or mentioning it on FaceBook or Twitter?

Thank you, and Sawasdee Kha,

Srisuda Hongthai
The Buddha Garden

Harder to teach Buddhism to a Westerner?

Question : (Unedited)

I heard someone say it is harder to teach Buddhism to a Westerner, Why is that?

My comment:

Hi W,

For someone new to Buddhism, it is like a first-time traveller discovering new and strange places, some totally alien and opposed to one's experiences. 　Buddhist doctrines will be totally alien to a stereotyped Caucasian who has been brought up in a Christian environment. 　This is because Buddhist concepts are very different from Christian doctrines. 　It will take some time for him to think "outside the box" and experience a paradigm shift in order to appreciate and understand what the Buddha taught.

A stereotype Western mindset in terms of religion is that there must be a creator god and the devil; a hell and a heaven; punishment and reward by god. 　Everything is centred on the fear of this all-powerful and all-knowing god. 　This is the greatest hindrance to a Western mind to understand the teachings of the Buddha. 　It is a "religious shock" to learn that Buddhism is totally different from Christianity. 　So long as the Western mindset is not changed, this person will have difficulty learning Buddhism. 　The only way is to leave aside all the indoctrinated ideas and set oneself to learn Buddhism with an "open mind".

On the positive side, once the Westerner begins to understand Buddhism, he can practise better than an Asian. 　Asians are afffected by their ingrained superstitions and the fear of ghosts. 　

Don't worry be happy. Enjoy your movie.

Question : (Unedited)

Can you help understand what the Buddhist definition of "desire" is?

If I desire to watch a movie and enjoyed it, will it lead to suffering?

Thanks.

My comment:

Hi W,

Thank you for asking me.

We can say that the teachings of the Buddha are of 2 levels. 　One is for the lay people. 　The other is for those who pursue the ultimate release or salvation, generally refers to monks and nuns. 　The teachings are no different, but the intensity of practice and realization is different. 　If we really want to seek ultimate release or salvation it is very difficult to live as worldly persons because being worldly we are subject to worldly problems, worldly needs, and worldly temptations. 　

As a worldly person you would agree with me that it is impossible to live without the necessities of human comfort (and a little bit of sensual gratification). 　The Buddha's contention is not so much of ridding material possessions or depriving oneself of any form of sense gratifications, but not to be over crazy with our desires. 　We practise a lifestyle of CONTENTMENT with what we already have. 　This does not prevent us from further improving our material well being, or enjoying ourselves. 　The skill in right-living is to be contented here and now. 　Otherwise, we will be like crazy fools chasing after more and more material gains and sense desires without ends.

These sensual desires are unquenchable. 　It is the very nature of physical senses. 　Take for example, hunger. 　Once the hunger is satisfied with intake of food; the process of depletion starts, and after some time one feels hungry again. 　Another aspect of sense desire is the stronger feeling of craving. 　One's craving to satisfy one's desire is itself a catalyst to crave for more. 　When this craving goes unchecked, one becomes crazy! 　So the option is opened to anyone who follows the Buddha's teachings: 　to continue feeding these desires with more craving, or to come to one's senses to reduce this crazy cycle of on-going "madness".

It is important to understand that the Buddha never asked us to live a layman's life like zombies. 　We must have the wisdom to live a skilful life with moderation, to enjoy and be peaceful and be happy.

Please enjoy your movies and other happy activities!!

Hope this clears your doubt.

Training The Mind (Part 2 of 2)

Question : (Unedited)

By the way, what do you think of Vipassana meditation cause I'm thinking of participating in a ten-day course of Vipassana meditation this year. Some people say that Vipassana is difficult.
I also heard of Natural Stress Relief, what do you think about it, if you ever heard of it?
thanks

My comment:

Hi L,

First, if you have to pay a fee, then do not go. 　Buddhist meditation conducted by true Buddhists should be free. As for "Natural Stress Relief" I think it sounds very commercial! 　

As I said before, there are as many types of meditation as there are sandwiches. 　As for Buddhist meditation, there are two relevant suttas explaining meditation by the Buddha. They are briefly described below, with references where you can click for details.

The most relevant is the Anapanasati Sutta.
(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anapanasati_sutta)
This sutta points out the method to calm our mind by being mindful of our breathing. Another good reference is here:
(http://www.dhammasukha.org/Study/Books/Pdf/anapana-%203-2003.pdf)

With a certain level of this mindfulness and focus, the mind achieves full concentration or samadhi 　　　(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samadhi). 　At this level, the mind experiences tranquility which is Samatha. 　And the resulting experience from this state of mind is 　mental rapture or absorption which is called jhana (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jhana). The mind is now ready for further training to experience true insight into the true nature of things, vipassana 　　　　(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vipassana). 　The practice of Vipassana is based on the "Foundation of mindfulness Sutta" or Satipathana Sutta (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satipatthana_Sutta).

So you see, the whole process is pretty complicating; and added to differing interpretations, it becomes mind boggling. 　As far as I am concerned, I practise Anapanasati which is mindfulness of breathing, and let the rest takes its course. 　It's that simple and easy!! 　To summarize: To achieve concentration is just like a person learning to drive a car; he needs full concentration to maneuver the car safely; this is samadhi. 　After a while he gains experience and can be relaxed while driving; this is samatha. 　Later, while concentrating and relaxing on his driving he can even enjoy the scenery around him and also engage in conversation; this is vipassana. 　Later he may become over-confidence and the danger comes!

As a parting comment, please remember that the above is my personal interpretation to the best of my experience and knowledge. 　There will be others who will disagree with me. 　So, please remember the Buddha's advice: use your own intelligence and common sense to decide.

Smile from justinchoo :-)

Training the mind (Part 1 0f 2)

QUESTION: (Unedited)

Hello, how are you?

I'd like to ask you about meditation.
I've noticed that there can be either internal or external meditation. Some people proclaim that it's better to keep your eyes open while meditating, others to keep them closed and focus on your inner world, to watch what appears in front of your eyes when they are closed. Which is better according to you? Which one do you practice?

Thank You!

My comment:

 Hi L,


In Buddhist meditation, the normal thing to do is to meditate with closed eyes. 　Of course the problem with this is that we quite often fall asleep. 　It is with diligent and effort that we practise through, irrespective of results. 　Of course with eyes slightly open, the problem of sleeping through is minimized. 　Certain spiritual groups practise it, and one of them is Brahmakumaris (http://www.brahmakumaris.com/).

I have personally practised Brahmakumaris method; but the object of their meditation is different.

Coming back to Buddhist meditation, the object is two fold. 　First to tame the wandering mind, then to train the mind to see the true nature of things and feelings. 　It is commonly treated as two separate types, namely tranquility meditation (Samatha), and insight meditation (Vipassana). 　My personal interpretation is that I will need tranquil mind in order to achieve insight. 　As far as I am concerned, I just meditate to stay focused or "one-pointedness" and let "nature" takes over. 　I feel that if one can project the mind to focus on one point for a long period, then one will experience insight. 　

Please remember, meditation is a very "controversial" subject. 　But I am just happy doing what I feel benefits me.

Smile from justinchoo :-)

A Pleasant Conversation (Part 4 of 4)

Question : (Unedited)
Hi again,
I hope you are fine.

You have said “The appearance of a Buddha is very very rare.  When the Dhamma or universal truth is lost, then a Buddha will appear and re-discover it.  This will take an unimaginable long period of time...an aeon or several aeons.”
The Buddha was a human being and he was able to see and experience the Dhamma straightly. Why do you say that the Dhamma can be seen or experienced only after it is lost? According to your saying, the Dhamma is a natural and universal law (or a combination of laws) like (Force = Mass * Acceleration). This law can be experienced and proved by any scientist now. It isn't necessary that the law disappears and then it can be proven again. If the Dhamma is a natural and universal law and in fact we define it this way then it should be experiencable at any time, any place. The Dhamma is the central teachings of the Buddha and according to Venerable S.Dhammika
“There are aspects of Buddhism that would not fit into science but the central teachings of Buddhism, the Four Noble Truths, most certainly would. Buddhism dispenses with the concept of a Supreme Being, as does science, and explains the origins and workings of the universe in terms of natural laws. All of this certainly exhibits a scientific spirit. Once again, the Buddha's constant advice that we should not blindly believe but rather question, examine, inquire and rely on our own experience, has a definite scientific ring to it. He says:
"Do not go by revelation or tradition, DO NOT GO by rumor, or the SACRED SCRIPTURES, do not go by hearsay or mere logic, do not go by bias towards a notion or by another person's seeming ability and do not go by the idea 'He is our teacher'. But when you yourself know that a thing is good, that it is not blamable, that it is praised by the wise and when practiced and observed that it leads to happiness, and then follow that thing."
A.I, 188
So we could say that although Buddhism is not entirely scientific, it certainly has a strong scientific overtone and is certainly more scientific than any other religion."
Taken from: http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/qanda01.htm

According to Buddha's saying we should not follow Dhamma only because Buddha has taught it to us. We should continue to follow it after seeing and experiencing that it is true and it leads to happiness.

You have said “To be liberated, one need not have to become a Buddha. 　As I said if one is completely rid of greed, hatred and delusion, then the person has cut away the craving of attachment, there are no more rebirths. 　During this period where the Dhamma has been revealed, there will not be any Buddha. 　We need only to practice his teachings to gain liberation; such a person is called an arahat (arahant), in English for lack of a better term, "a saint". 　The Buddha had revealed the way to liberation. 　It is up to the person whether to practice it or not.”
To Become a Buddha means to be awakened to the Truth (Dhamma). Obviously Ven.S.Dhammika disagrees with you on this point because he says
“The name Buddhism comes from the word 'budhi' which means 'to wake up' and thus Buddhism is the philosophy of awakening.”
And because Buddhism is a practical philosophy, its goal is to awaken people to Dhamma. You yourself certainly know that knowing by seeing or experiencing is different from knowing by just-hearing. And if Buddhism is scientific according to what Ven.S.Dhammika said, its central teaching (the Dhamma) should be experiencable by everyone who practices it.

A Somehow New Question
Imagine a person who is practicing Buddha's teaching. How can he become sure if he has reached Nirvana or not? I mean what's the sign of reaching Nirvana for a person who practices Buddha's teaching? How will he feel like after reaching Nirvana? Isn't reaching Nirvana simultaneous with reaching some special knowledge?

Anyway I really thank you for your answers.

My comment:
Hi A,

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The "Dhamma" in this context means the Four Noble Truths. 　According to the Buddha, these Four Noble Truths were known before but through time, they were "lost and forgotten". 　It will happen again and in the distant future as well. 　What I mean is that when the Dhamma is lost again, it will then take a Buddha to rediscover this Truth when the conditions are right. At present the Dhamma is here for us to follow. (Ven Dhammika is a very learned monk but a little "controversial" amongst the Theravada community.) 　He was quoting the famous and popular Kalama Sutta, "the freedom of enquiry".

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Buddhism is more scientific than any science. 　What scientists are just discovering had been revealed by the Buddha. 　Especially in the science of "mind and consciousness" Western science is still in the dark ages. 　In the field of the cosmos, astro physicists are just peeping through the mysteries of the universe; whereas the Buddha had already explained the evolution of the universe.

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"Buddha" means "The Fully Awakened One". "Buddha" and "Budhi" come from the Pali root word "Budh" meaning "to awaken". 　Apart from that a Buddha is a very "special" being. 　It takes a person aeons of difficult spiritual cultivation and having passed through 10 types of "perfection". (Refer here for deatis:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paramita). 　　

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You are correct.

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I will be lying to you if I claim I can answer this question. 　Unless the person has attained liberation, how can anyone know? 　As you are aware, it is through realization and attainment. 　If I have not gained this realization and attainment, I cannot know. 　Only in theory and "book knowledge" that we can just conjecture what it is like to attain Nibbana. As I said before, the best bet is to assume that when one is completely rid of greed, hatred and delusion (the three roots of evil), can one assume that one has attained liberation.

A Pleasant Conversation (Part 3 of 4)

Question (Unedited)

Hi again my dear friend,
I hope you are fine. Let`s go straight to the discussion.

In our last discussion you said

That is why he WAS the Buddha. 　He need not have to govern a country!!
I don`t understand. I didn`t say that Buddha needed to govern a country. I said if he was to govern a country how would he have ruled that country? It`s strange to me, you are making governing a country like a taboo. What`s wrong with governing a country? Or maybe Buddhists think that a country doesn`t need a governor?
I myself think if the government acts in proper ways, most of the problems of people will never even come to be.

You have said The monks are the GUARDIANCE and TEACHERS of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings).
I ask If they are the guardiance of Dhamma why aren`t they allowed to defend themselves and Dhamma when the government wants to destroy them?

You have said As lay people we have to lead a balanced life based on wisdom.The wisdom to weigh the facts and consequences and then to make the best of the choices.
The final goal of those who follow Buddhism is to reach nirvana. If a lay person defends himself then he will create bad kamma for himself. Then this action is opposite to the final goal. Thus, Buddhist wisdom tells you not to defend yourself.

You have said It is not unwholesome to save the life. It is unwholesome to kill. 　In the final analysis one has to use WISDOM to decide. 　It is not a clear-cut yes/no option.

Imagine a situation in which a criminal is beating an innocent person. You have two choices ahead of yourself. You may either pass away or stay to defend the innocent person. If you pass away you have lowered your spirituality [I mean the Brahma-Vihara, the Karuna (Compassion)] and thus you have caused bad kamma. If you defend that innocent, according to your saying, you will again cause bad kamma for yourself. In conclusion, in both choices you will cause bad kamma for yourself and bad kamma is inevitable. What should one do in these situations?

Like Hindus and Jainists, Buddhists believe in ahimsa, the compassionate principle of not harming others. Many Buddhist scriptures provide examples of ahimsa in practice.
For example, five years after becoming enlightened, Siddhartha returned to his home town. His mother's

tribe, the Koliyans, was at war with the father's tribe, the Shakyas, because of a dispute over irrigation water for their farms. Siddhartha interposed himself as a battle was about to begin. He explained to them that water was not worth the life of even a single person, and the war ended.
One question: If they hadn`t come to an agreement, what would Siddhartha have done then? Don`t you agree that by acting so, Siddhartha showed his interset in taking part in politics? (I mean to use his power in politics in order to spread the Dhamma and peace like what Ashoka did.)

One text from the TherevAda Pali Canon (originally written in Pali, a Sanskrit dialect, in ancient India) tells of a king who refused to resist invaders. He threw open the gates of the city, were captured, and thrown in a dungeon. In the dungeon, he focused his mind on kind thoughts toward his captor. As a result, the captor was seized by so much physical pain that he released the king, who regained his throne.

The weight of Buddhist scriptures favors a pacifist understanding of ahimsa.
Mahayana's Upaya-kaushalya sutra (Skillful Means) tells the story of a Bodhisattva who saved hundreds of people by killing a murderous thief.
Other Mahayana scriptures explain that such a defensive killing prevents the murderer from bringing more bad karma on himself, and creates good karma for the defender, providing that the defender acts in the spirit of compassion.

One question: Doesn`t the Therevada Tradition of Buddhism agree with Mahayana in this case?

The Brahmajala Sutra is a Mahayana text providing ten major rules and fortyeight minor rules of good conduct. The very first rule prohibits killing. But other rules requires Buddhists to protect all living things and to protect the Buddha, the Sangha (the Buddhist community), and the Dharma (law or teaching). So Buddhists have interpreted the Brahmajala Sutra to require them to use force when necessary to protect...............

My comment:

Hi A,

You certainly is very persistent to get a "yes" or "no" answer. 　It is very difficult to make a stand like that. 　I must admit that what I commented were just my understanding of the Buddha's teachings. 　I may be wrong and stand corrected. 　I am here to share my understanding of the Buddha's teachings. 　It does not mean that I am a real expert at it, although this site use the term "Expert". 　Let's keep it as friendly discussions and hope we can learn from each other.

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I wholeheartedly agree with you. 　I never said otherwise. 　What I inferred was that if we wanted to be involved with worldly affairs then we had to live a layman's life and not to become a monk.

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It is in the Vinaya rules...227 rules for monks.

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If you study my comments carefully, you would notice that there are two separate issues: protecting self and action against others. 　We must also bear in mind the workings of kamma. 　Our previous bad kamma may be the cause of our present problems. 　There may be other ways to resolve our problems. 　"Life and death" situations are mostly hypothetical assumptions. 　Most of us are fortunate enough not to have to face such scenario.


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You have to decide for yourself.


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My first paragraph stands.


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Such question will never be "satisfactorilly" answered.

 One question: What`s the idea of TTB about the rule for protecting all living beings in Mahayana?
I practise according to the Theravada tradition. 　I am in no position to comment on Mahayana text. 　By the way the (Theravada) Tipitakka has a "Brahmajala Sutta" (click here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brahmajala_sutta).

Well, this much I can comment. 　If you are happy with them, you are most welcome to post further questions. 　By the way, may I know where you are located?

A Pleasant Conversation (Part 2 of 4)

QUESTION: (Unedited)

Hi again my dear friend,
I am very happy to see your answer. You know, I had been looking for someone whom I can ask my questions about Buddhism for two years and now i`m very happy that I have finally found you.
After reading your answer, i`ve come to these conclusions, if any of my conclusions are wrong, please correct them:
1. Monks in NO conditions are allowed to kill (or act as apposed to the ten percepts) which means:
They are not allowed to defend themselves or their families (father, mother, sister or brother) against the murderers. They are not allowed to defend their country (If another country attacks their country, they only sit and watch or maybe also feel sorry for the people who have been killed.)
2. Lay people are in different conditions. Their actions on this matter (self-defense) can be optional. This means that if they want to be completely free from pain, they should kill nobody in any condition. (For example if a killer comes to his/her house and wants to kill him/her or his/her mother, if he/she wants to be free from pain (or reach nirvana), he/she should not defend him/her self or his/her mother.) But if they are ready to tolerate different pains, they are allowed to defend themselves or their countries. Because kamma will punish them for defending their family or their country.

Now, new questions have come to my mind.

You have said: â

€œThe Buddha did not COMMAND his followers NOT to break precepts. It is generally translated as "I undertake to observe the precept".”

I think putting “undertake” instead of “command”, is playing with words. To be honest with ourselves we must accept that Buddha said that if you want to reach nirvana, this is the way and you must act not opposed to the five percepts. If you do so, you won`t reach nirvana.

You have said: “Killing is unwholesome. The act of killing means a being has to die due to this act of killing. The law of kamma is amoral. It does not take mitigation for a lesser crime.”
I think the percept of kamma is going “immoral” instead of “amoral” in this case.
If, by killing a person you will be able to save the life of someone else why should that killing bring bad kamma for you? In fact that killing can even be called “wholesome”.

You have said: “As lay Buddhists, we are always confronted with this conflict of principles against the onslaught of worldly evils. That was ................................

My comment:

Hi A,

Welcome back.

Your last comment first: about quoting Tipitaka. 　I am sorry I am not skilled in interpreting and quoting the Tipitaka. 　What I share with you are mostly from the books I read and from the talks delivered by learned Buddhist speakers, especially by my late teacher, the Ven Dhammananda (http://www.ksridhammananda.com).

<<1. Monks in NO conditions are allowed to kill ...>>
Please remember in Buddhism there are no such terms as "MUST" or "ALLOWED". 　The Buddha merely lead us to the path of truth, embodied in the Noble Eightfold Path. 　It is up to us whether to follow or not. 　No one is forced to obey any commandment.  If a person wishes to live as he likes, then he does not have to be a monk.

<<2. Lay people are in different conditions. Their actions on this matter (self-defense) can be optional....>>
As lay people we have to lead a balanced life based on wisdom. 　The wisdom to weigh the facts and consequences and then to make the best of the choices.


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By just following the five precepts, one will experience a happier life, but not reach Nibbana. 　One will have to cultivate much much more to attain salvation. 　


<< The law of kamma is amoral. It does not take mitigation for a lesser crime....>>
It is like elctricity, if you touch a life-wire you are dead. 　The reason(s) for your touching is irrelevent.

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If they want to fight the government, they just need to disrobe. 　No one is forcing them to be monks; but to be monks then they will have to keep their precepts strictly without any compromise.
"Self-defence" is a natural instinct of all life forms. 　As I said before, the reasons may be justified, but the act is a different issue. 　You may have saved your own life; but in the process you have killed one or many. 　That is why it is a very unsatisfactory condition to exist in this world...The First Noble Truth...Dukkha.

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That is why he WAS the Buddha. 　He did not have to govern a country!!

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Monks (genuine monks) are the holy order of the Buddha. 　They are the GUARDIANCE and TEACHERS of the Dhamma.  That is their "profession".  They "produce" peace of mind and contentment in  life.