Buddhism
Q&A for people practicing or interested in Buddhist philosophy, teaching, and practice
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7
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3
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683
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Question on the possibility of higher rebirth for animals
In the questions [Why not kill animals to hasten their rebirth?](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/2044/why-not-kill-animals-to-hasten-their-rebirth) and [Do the same rules of Karma apply to animals?](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/2190/do-the-same-rules-of-karma-apply-to-an...
In the questions [Why not kill animals to hasten their rebirth?](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/2044/why-not-kill-animals-to-hasten-their-rebirth) and [Do the same rules of Karma apply to animals?](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/2190/do-the-same-rules-of-karma-apply-to-animals) and others, it in part discusses how animals have a very difficult time to be reborn as humans, and stuck endlessly in a cycle as animals. As I understand it, because they are not capable of Meritorious Deeds on there own.
However, it seems to be possible for humans to transfer some good Karma to them, which may improve their chances of a higher rebirth.
If it is possible, how is this accomplished? Take this case:
Let's say there is a housefly in my house. Of course I could just grab a fly swatter and kill it. However, I choose to take 15 minutes to wait for it to fly to the screen door and then let it out.
If this provides some good Karma for me, can it be transferred to the fly which may be helpful upon its rebirth? Or am I the only beneficiary of saving it (or at least for not killing it)?
user3169
(315 rep)
Jul 22, 2014, 04:01 AM
• Last activity: Apr 10, 2015, 08:30 AM
4
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1
answers
138
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Identification of a Buddhist text written in classical Chinese or Japanese
While looking for an answer to [this question](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/7318/looking-for-negative-reference-to-women-in-the-avatamsaka-sutra) I found [a text that contains the quote in question](http://www.genshu.gr.jp/DPJ/database/bunken/goibun/f_tyu_b.htm), but I cannot find an...
While looking for an answer to [this question](https://buddhism.stackexchange.com/questions/7318/looking-for-negative-reference-to-women-in-the-avatamsaka-sutra) I found [a text that contains the quote in question](http://www.genshu.gr.jp/DPJ/database/bunken/goibun/f_tyu_b.htm) , but I cannot find any information about it.
* Is it written in classical Chinese or classical Japanese? (The two written languages were apparently quite similar)
* Is it a commentary to the Lotus Sutra as the title seems to indicate?
* When was it written and by whom?
* Are the divisions equivalent to the divisions of the Lotus Sutra?
* Do the line numbers also point to the lines of the sutra?
kami
(2732 rep)
Feb 13, 2015, 10:26 PM
• Last activity: Apr 8, 2015, 04:22 PM
2
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1
answers
163
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Ignorance of others when practising the teachings of the Buddha
[Ignorance is described as not knowing about dukkha.][1] If one knows dukkha and understands the cause of dukkha is starts with ignorance, how does one traverse ignorance of others? For example, the Buddha one would imagine would have had to experience the ignorance of others. Would he have ignored...
Ignorance is described as not knowing about dukkha. If one knows dukkha and understands the cause of dukkha is starts with ignorance, how does one traverse ignorance of others?
For example, the Buddha one would imagine would have had to experience the ignorance of others. Would he have ignored it? Would he have attempted to enlighten them? Would he have empathized with them?
Motivated
(1828 rep)
Apr 6, 2015, 06:25 PM
• Last activity: Apr 7, 2015, 10:28 PM
2
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1
answers
93
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Significance of hand placement in forming mudra
In Suzuki's "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" (online copy [here][1]), instruction is given on how to form the specific hand position (mudra) when meditating. He advocates "put[ting] your left hand on top of your right." This is the position I have been using in my short months of meditating, and is the p...
In Suzuki's "Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind" (online copy here ), instruction is given on how to form the specific hand position (mudra) when meditating. He advocates "put[ting] your left hand on top of your right." This is the position I have been using in my short months of meditating, and is the position also taught to me at my local Zen center.
However, this resource , by Ven. Mahathera Nauyane Ariyadhamma, advocates the opposite: "back of the right hand over the palm of the left."
Question: why the difference? and, Does it even matter?
Jeff Wright
(1047 rep)
Apr 7, 2015, 07:28 PM
• Last activity: Apr 7, 2015, 10:25 PM
10
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1
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What do buddhists do in a situation of war where all able-bodied men must become soldiers?
I was reading a chapter called [*"The Buddhist Stand on the Death Sentence"* on p. 390-393 in the book *"What Buddhists Believe"* by Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda.][1] In here it is written that the law is supreme and that buddhists must always respect and obey the laws of the country they live in and tha...
I was reading a chapter called *"The Buddhist Stand on the Death Sentence"* on p. 390-393 in the book *"What Buddhists Believe"* by Ven. K. Sri Dhammananda. In here it is written that the law is supreme and that buddhists must always respect and obey the laws of the country they live in and that if they break the law they must also accept the punishment.
Then in the end of the chapter he talks about the situation where war breaks out and all able-bodied men are to be conscripted as soldiers by law of that nation.
Being a soldier requires one to maybe engage in killing of other beings or maybe become forced to commit unwholesome actions that one does not want to do since it will break the buddhist ethical code and precepts. But if they choose not to do it they will be breaking the law of that nation.
What do buddhists do in that situation?
Thank you for your time.
Lanka
user2424
Apr 6, 2015, 09:21 PM
• Last activity: Apr 7, 2015, 02:38 AM
5
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1
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Zen's concern with "reality" vs. being in the present
In "Zen Mind" Suzuki says: "The true purpose is to see things as they are, to observe things as they are, and to let everything go as it goes". To see things as they are... doesn't that involve an understanding of past and future? Past and future are part of what it is... no? So my question is... if...
In "Zen Mind" Suzuki says: "The true purpose is to see things as they are, to observe things as they are, and to let everything go as it goes". To see things as they are... doesn't that involve an understanding of past and future? Past and future are part of what it is... no? So my question is... if Zen is so concerned with seeing things as they are, why is it only concerned with the present? Isn't the past and future part of what it is? If your mind is in the moment, doesn't it miss the future and past?
jason
(543 rep)
Apr 4, 2015, 12:31 AM
• Last activity: Apr 6, 2015, 01:32 PM
2
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3
answers
284
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Can Metta improve one's luck?
Since one can benefit so much from practicing Metta, can it also helps improving one's luck?
Since one can benefit so much from practicing Metta, can it also helps improving one's luck?
Sunset_Limited
(539 rep)
Apr 4, 2015, 03:52 PM
• Last activity: Apr 5, 2015, 04:55 AM
2
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1
answers
1993
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What is the link between calligraphy and Zen?
Often the Zen books I've read such as Zen Mind Beginners Mind are illustrated by calligraphy oftentimes by the author themselves. Also Zen figures such as the hermit and poet Ryokan are also known for their calligraphy. Is there a particular link between Zen and calligraphy? Are the two practice's m...
Often the Zen books I've read such as Zen Mind Beginners Mind are illustrated by calligraphy oftentimes by the author themselves. Also Zen figures such as the hermit and poet Ryokan are also known for their calligraphy.
Is there a particular link between Zen and calligraphy? Are the two practice's mutually supportive in some way or is the link purely a matter of both Zen and calligraphy being important in Japanese culture - the link been purely coincidental?
Crab Bucket
(21199 rep)
Apr 3, 2015, 04:35 PM
• Last activity: Apr 3, 2015, 08:13 PM
4
votes
4
answers
1495
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Trouble understanding the notion of interconnectedness
I started meditating regularly a few months agowith the aim of practising mindfulness, primarily using Headspace. I also read Sam Harris' Waking Up and listened to the Science of Mindfulness lectures by Ronald D. Siegel. I find a lot of the ideas very compelling (living outside of the present moment...
I started meditating regularly a few months agowith the aim of practising mindfulness, primarily using Headspace. I also read Sam Harris' Waking Up and listened to the Science of Mindfulness lectures by Ronald D. Siegel.
I find a lot of the ideas very compelling (living outside of the present moment as a source of unhappiness, the impermanence of all things) and I am also beginning to see the benefit of meditation for my mental state.
The only concept I have trouble taking on board is the interconnectedness of all beings. I have read various descriptions, some coming from the modern, Western take on mindfulness and this notion still doesn't resonate with me. My reaction remains 'we're not connected whether we believe in separate selves or not.' So perhaps I'm taking this too literally. Is interconnectedness just a way of saying 'we're all in the same boat and will have a run of bad luck in the end' rather than some sort of mystic connection?
I'm not sure how clearly I stated what my confusion is but I would appreciate any insight.
Greg Slodkowicz
(141 rep)
Apr 1, 2015, 06:26 PM
• Last activity: Apr 3, 2015, 04:28 PM
5
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3
answers
393
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Should Buddhists use statues with an imagined likeness of the Buddha for veneration?
Should Buddhists use statues with an imagined likeness of the Buddha for veneration? The Buddha discouraged making images in his likeness (Kalinga Bodhi jataka), and has said that the Buddha cannot be likened to a statue.
Should Buddhists use statues with an imagined likeness of the Buddha for veneration? The Buddha discouraged making images in his likeness (Kalinga Bodhi jataka), and has said that the Buddha cannot be likened to a statue.
Kaveenga Wijayasekara
(1663 rep)
Mar 31, 2015, 12:42 AM
• Last activity: Apr 2, 2015, 12:13 AM
7
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4
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If A is killed by B due to A's past karma of killing B, will B suffer from this karma of killing A?
I am trying to deepen my understanding of the law of karma. Let's say: 1. A killed B. 2. B killed A in next life. Is this particular karma of A considered "completed", that B will not suffer since this is just the effect of A's karma? Or does B still create new karma when killing A, and will suffer...
I am trying to deepen my understanding of the law of karma. Let's say:
1. A killed B.
2. B killed A in next life.
Is this particular karma of A considered "completed", that B will not suffer since this is just the effect of A's karma?
Or does B still create new karma when killing A, and will suffer unwholesome result?
fxam
(991 rep)
Oct 11, 2014, 02:00 PM
• Last activity: Apr 1, 2015, 02:22 PM
3
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1
answers
1657
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Did the Buddha give any advice on how to manage economy?
I was wondering if the Buddha did give any advice on how to manage personal economics? I assume that the advice would be the middle way as applied to everything else in Buddhism. To stay away from the extremes meaning e.g. spending all of ones money on one thing and instead divide ones amount of mon...
I was wondering if the Buddha did give any advice on how to manage personal economics?
I assume that the advice would be the middle way as applied to everything else in Buddhism. To stay away from the extremes meaning e.g. spending all of ones money on one thing and instead divide ones amount of money in an equal way.
I remember once reading something about dividing one portion of ones money to food, bills, medicin etc., then one portion to enjoyment, then one portion to charity, then one portion to savings. Unfortunately i have no idea where i read it or if its actually really advice that came from the Buddha.
Thank you for your time.
Lanka
user2424
Mar 31, 2015, 03:13 PM
• Last activity: Mar 31, 2015, 04:32 PM
23
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6
answers
7611
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Is Nirvana the goal for all Buddhist?
If I understand it correctly, Nirvana is the liberation from the endless cycle of rebirth, thereby terminating all sufferings. Is Nirvana a goal which every Buddhist must achieve? Is there any other things more important than attaining Nirvana?
If I understand it correctly, Nirvana is the liberation from the endless cycle of rebirth, thereby terminating all sufferings.
Is Nirvana a goal which every Buddhist must achieve?
Is there any other things more important than attaining Nirvana?
Mawia
(781 rep)
Jul 7, 2014, 12:29 PM
• Last activity: Mar 31, 2015, 04:13 PM
2
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1
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254
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Work, Love, and Buddhism in the modern setting
I am curious as to what the stance of Buddhists would be towards a couple of issues. Would it be possible to maintain a career, one that you dedicate a lot of time towards and that you actively pursue, while still devoting your life to Buddhism? Would it be possible to maintain a physical and emotio...
I am curious as to what the stance of Buddhists would be towards a couple of issues.
Would it be possible to maintain a career, one that you dedicate a lot of time towards and that you actively pursue, while still devoting your life to Buddhism?
Would it be possible to maintain a physical and emotional relationship with someone?
On both of these issues I want to make a clear distinction between applying Buddhist principles towards life, and being a practicing Buddhist. I am concerned with the latter, treating the Buddhist teachings as your primary goal and giving it the utmost importance.
In essence, I am wondering if one can gain true enlightenment while remaining an active participant in the modern workspace and relationship environment, just with different principals?
As an additional tidbit, would pursuing other education or outside pleasures be possible as a monastic Buddhist?
Thank you for any help!
mrybak834
(131 rep)
Mar 30, 2015, 03:07 PM
• Last activity: Mar 31, 2015, 12:26 PM
9
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3
answers
2760
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Buddhist monk education level
I saw that many of the western monks like Ajahn Brahm, Ajahn Shumedho, Ajahn Sucitto etc. have an university degree. I'm 24 years old from Switzerland and I only finished secondary school with 15 years old. I tried many times to make an apprenticeship as an information scientist but failed due to my...
I saw that many of the western monks like Ajahn Brahm, Ajahn Shumedho, Ajahn Sucitto etc. have an university degree. I'm 24 years old from Switzerland and I only finished secondary school with 15 years old. I tried many times to make an apprenticeship as an information scientist but failed due to my strong depressions. I was a few times in a psychiatric clinic because I tried to kill myself. The last 2 years i was just staying at home with no goals in life.
I started to read about Buddhism and meditation. I really think that this would help me out in my difficult life. I even thought about to join a monastery and become a Theravada Buddhist monk. I just worry about my education level. I saw the youtube videos from the monks mentioned above. They seem very intelligent when they speak due to their education in an university. I feel pretty dumb compared to them.
**tl;dr**
I went to:
- 1-6 primary school
- 7-9 secondary school
Is this enough to become a monk?
Paul
(99 rep)
Mar 30, 2015, 09:57 AM
• Last activity: Mar 31, 2015, 01:04 AM
4
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1
answers
286
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How important is the Sixth Precept to monks and nuns?
*I can only speak from the Mahayana world but I'd be very interested in the Theravada side. I'm suspect it will be enlightening.* How important is the Sixth Precept to monks and nuns? In my experience the few that profess a claim to follow it refer to "noon" as something nebulous or in a different t...
*I can only speak from the Mahayana world but I'd be very interested in the Theravada side. I'm suspect it will be enlightening.*
How important is the Sixth Precept to monks and nuns? In my experience the few that profess a claim to follow it refer to "noon" as something nebulous or in a different time zone. Every monastic I know eats after noon. Also if it doesn't have to be followed then why? It seems the bending of precepts can be a dangerous thing or like the proverb says "Hell is full of good meanings, but heaven is full of good works".
Thank you so much for your time.
Brian
(368 rep)
Mar 30, 2015, 05:13 PM
• Last activity: Mar 30, 2015, 07:30 PM
3
votes
1
answers
1086
views
Does consensual sex break the five precepts?
Is it considered breaking the five precepts under these circumstances: 1. Both are in a relationship, unmarried and it's purely consensual. 2. Both are single and it's purely consensual.
Is it considered breaking the five precepts under these circumstances:
1. Both are in a relationship, unmarried and it's purely consensual.
2. Both are single and it's purely consensual.
Sunset_Limited
(539 rep)
Mar 29, 2015, 02:39 PM
• Last activity: Mar 30, 2015, 01:02 PM
4
votes
2
answers
276
views
What exactly were the parks that the Buddha spent time in?
Whe I read the Pali Canon the BUddha seems to spend a lot of his time in parks in various locations. Often in the suttas these 'parks' are mentioned in the introduction to the text. For instance the [Alagaddupama Sutta][1] (The Water-Snake Simile) begins > I have heard that on one occasion the Bless...
Whe I read the Pali Canon the BUddha seems to spend a lot of his time in parks in various locations. Often in the suttas these 'parks' are mentioned in the introduction to the text. For instance the Alagaddupama Sutta (The Water-Snake Simile) begins
> I have heard that on one occasion the Blessed One was staying in
> Savatthi, at Jeta's Grove, Anathapindika's park
I've even read park keepers being mentioned in some sutta I've read. This as always struck me as achronistic. The notion of parks where the Buddha can spend time seems odd. If they were pieces of land owned by Kings and nobility I would have expected the translation to be rendered private gardens or the like. To me the word park gives the impression of some kind of public or communal ownership.
So what were the parks that existed 2500 years ago in India. Were there really
pieces of land with some kind of common ownership that anyone could go to. Is it a translation issue and there are other possible translations to this that don't give the impression of a communal kind of ownership? Is it just me that finds this odd?
Crab Bucket
(21199 rep)
Mar 29, 2015, 05:10 PM
• Last activity: Mar 30, 2015, 01:38 AM
2
votes
1
answers
89
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Specific sutta in the Majjhima Nikaya: Where is past and future discussed?
Im looking for a specific sutta in the *Majjhima Nikaya*. In the sutta *past and future* is being discussed and also how a practitioner on the insight path can gain seclusion from the 5 aggregates. Help would be much appreciated. Lanka
Im looking for a specific sutta in the *Majjhima Nikaya*.
In the sutta *past and future* is being discussed and also how a practitioner on the insight path can gain seclusion from the 5 aggregates.
Help would be much appreciated.
Lanka
user2424
Mar 19, 2015, 05:46 PM
• Last activity: Mar 29, 2015, 08:29 PM
2
votes
1
answers
253
views
Specific sutta in the Tipitaka: Where did the Buddha compare leaves in the forest to his knowledge?
I'm trying to find the sutta in where the Buddha is walking through a forest with his disciples. He then picks up a handful of leaves and says that what he teach is comparable to the leaves in his hand and what he did not teach is comparable to the amount of leaves in the forest. Help would be much...
I'm trying to find the sutta in where the Buddha is walking through a forest with his disciples. He then picks up a handful of leaves and says that what he teach is comparable to the leaves in his hand and what he did not teach is comparable to the amount of leaves in the forest.
Help would be much appreciated.
Lanka
user2424
Mar 19, 2015, 06:06 PM
• Last activity: Mar 29, 2015, 08:28 PM
Showing page 433 of 20 total questions