For over thirty years I have been an ecumenist, not just relating to Christian denominations, but all religions. During the same time span I have studied Buddhism and found among its writings significant wisdom:
The essence of Buddhist teachings does not change; wherever it goes, it is suitable. ~ H.H. The Dalai Lama
Suffering I teach, and the way out of suffering… ~ The Buddha
The Dharama (the teachings of the Buddha) is not something to believe in, but something to do. ~ Stephen Bachelor
There is no way to happiness; happiness is the way. ~ Buddha Shakymuni
If my desires are unable to be fulfilled even by everything upon this earth, what else will satisfy them? ~ Shantideva
There are many different philosophies, but what is of basic importance is compassion, love for others. ~ H. H. The Dalai Lama
There is no evil like hatred, and no fortitude like patience. ~ Shantideva
Just like a dream experience, whatever things I enjoy become a memory. Whatever has passed will not be seen again. ~ Shantideva
The way to cessation of all suffering, which is liberation or freedom, is the fourth noble truth, the noble eightfold path. ~ Ayya Kerma
The Noble Eightfold Path:
Right View
Right Thought
Right Speech
Right Action
Right Livelihood
Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Concentration
Peace of mind, mental tranquility, may not necessarily be felt as a specific sensation, but can provoke a physical sensation of joy and happiness. ~ H. H. The Dalai Lama
We must train the mind to know the sense impressions and not get lost in them. To make it peaceful. Just this is the aim of all this difficult practice we put ourselves through. ~ Ajahn Chan
Mindfulness…makes us accessible to depths of awareness and clear seeing into the way things are. ~ Christopher Titmuss
To meet the perfect teacher is more valuable than gaining a kingdom. Look at how those with no devotion treat the teacher as their equal. ~ Patrul Rinpoche
You yourself must make the effort. Buddhas only point the way. Those who have entered the Path and who mediate will be freed from all the fetters of illusion. ~ The Dhammapada
When at last in a single flash you attain full realization, you will only be realizing the buddha-nature that has been with you all the time. ~ Huang-Po
Enjoyed the blog. Added you to my bloglist.
ReplyDeleteI would have been a year ahead of you at UK -- probably would have been with you in ROTC, except I transferred to FSU for my Jr. year. Majored in Anthro with Dr. Essene; minored in Comparative Religion, but didn't really get into it until Jr. year. Lived in Donovan Hall -- room 232, I think.
Interesting upwelling of memories.
Bill Webb
"There is no evil like hatred, and no fortitude like patience." I agree..
ReplyDeleteI like "There is no way to happiness; happiness is the way."
ReplyDeleteI love the Buddhist philosophies. The Dalai Lama always speaks of compassion. I wish we could all live that.
ReplyDeleteI have a Buddist "Bible"...these quotes are motivating me to take it out and read it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for these quotes!!! Buddhism is so much more peaceful and compassionate than the rantings I hear from the evangelical Baptists I grew up with.
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