Author Topic: Buddhism (Read 1020 times)

EclecticWheel · « **on:** April 16, 2017, 10:08:35 pm »

I have studied Buddhism on and off for a few years now. Sometimes I still struggle with basics, but I have come to accept anatta due to my reading in psychology, especially in the area of behavior, and this has influenced how I relate to God(s) and saints as has sociology and anthropology.

But I am skeptical of nirvana. I don't see how I could be in a causeless unconditioned state while alive -- or dead for that matter. I am influenced most by Secular Buddhism.

I also have to be very careful with meditation due to anxiety. I have to create my own techniques and even then be careful. I can't sit zazen.

And I tend to think overall it's a bit world denying for my taste. Still, Buddhist thought informs my spiritual practice and daily life for sure.

Does Buddhism shape your path in any way?

Redfaery · « **Reply #1 on:** April 17, 2017, 03:41:35 am »

Quote from: EclecticWheel;204990

Does Buddhism shape your path in any way?

Yes. How much time do you have?

Buddhism is my primary point of reference. I especially am fond of Yogachara and Tathagatagarbha thought. I believe that the Buddha nature pervades everything.

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Castus · « **Reply #2 on:** April 17, 2017, 12:10:45 pm »

Quote from: EclecticWheel;204990

I have studied Buddhism on and off for a few years now. Sometimes I still struggle with basics, but I have come to accept anatta due to my reading in psychology, especially in the area of behavior, and this has influenced how I relate to God(s) and saints as has sociology and anthropology.

But I am skeptical of nirvana. I don't see how I could be in a causeless unconditioned state while alive -- or dead for that matter. I am influenced most by Secular Buddhism.

I also have to be very careful with meditation due to anxiety. I have to create my own techniques and even then be careful. I can't sit zazen.

And I tend to think overall it's a bit world denying for my taste. Still, Buddhist thought informs my spiritual practice and daily life for sure.

Does Buddhism shape your path in any way?

Buddhism is the first religion I formally converted to, at the ripe old age of 12. Eventually I moved away from it, in no small part due to being exposed to St John Paul II's articulate criticism of Buddhism, but I still retain a deep fondness for Buddhism. That having been said it does not influence my current religious practice at all -- although maybe it should.