Mon 30 Apr 2007
I am working on the Introduction to Buddhism, but I am tired, and must rise early to meditate in the morning. Rest assured, there will be an overview of beliefs and practices posted by May 2 at the latest.
May 1 or May 2 (depending which calendar you reference) is a full moon, which in the Theraveda tradition would be a holy day. However, not only is it too early in the month for me to feel comfortable joining in temple ceremonies, I haven’t decided which variation of Buddhism I am following.
At the very least, I expect to follow the Five Precepts, summarized thusly:
- No intentional destruction of life
- No stealing
- No sexual misconduct
- No lying
- No intoxication
For further reading while I am getting my act together, I suggest UrbanDharma.org.
May 7th, 2007 at 11:32 am
There are so many variations of Buddhism out there, yet my favourite one is Pure Land Buddhism, perhaps because it seems to be closest on viewing Buddha as something greater than just a man, but God Himself; that be chanting His name, He shall take mercy upon em and raise em in death into Paradise.
I say, just choose a variety or sect of Buddhism that you are comfortable with. If you wish to come closer to Buddha Himself (He becomes almost even like a Saviour), then the Mahayana tradition is wonderful. If you wish something rather on self-focus, then the Theravada tradition suffices. Or something unique and with physical techniques, the Vajrayana tradition.
Of course, I am no expert in Buddhism, just a lurker within the religion. However, I wish blessings on your endeavours, and seek with you if Buddhism in the end of the Year of Faith becomes your own. :)
May 9th, 2007 at 10:23 am
[…] In our lives as Buddhists this month, we will try to abide by the instructions of the Eightfold Path. At the very least this means following the Five Precepts as I laid out before. Additionally: […]
May 9th, 2007 at 10:30 am
Kevyn,
Thanks for that quick summary of Buddhist traditions, I hadn’t thought of the divisions that way before. Of course, I have only done the briefest of surveys of the texts so far. I certainly hope to explore more this month.
Thank you for your good wishes, and blessings be on whichever path you walk.