Sunday, January 15, 2012

Last Sunday’s discussion circled around the issue of Buddhist ethics at the edge of the precepts.  We can all agree about the value of non-violent action, and can see the value of Gandhi’s non-violent teaching of Satyagraha, or truth-force.  But then the question arises as to how much can we rely on these approaches when the potential for destruction has become so magnified through technology? In other words, what does it mean to uphold the precepts in this time of such global, and perhaps irreversible, environmental devastation?  And what does it mean to uphold the precepts in light of the unspeakable violence being inflicted on so many of our sisters and brothers, and on so many children of the world?
These questions generated considerable interest, so it was suggested not only that we continue with it next week (Sunday the 22nd), but that we create a weblog where others can join in and post any further thoughts or questions.  We are aware that passions can run deep when trying to speak to some of these complex issues; please be sure your postings are well-considered, and stay focused within the bounds of the precepts. (We would not want to create false impressions regarding the spirit of practice at our center.)

4 comments:

  1. During last Sunday's discussion, someone mentioned a relevant discussion in the most recent issue of Buddhadharma Magazine. If you have a copy it is under the 'Ask the Teachers' column.

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  2. I hope our discussions can focus on developing a few good, concrete ideas for projects we could undertake to make a difference in the community/state/country/world according to Buddhist values. Dana mentioned Habitat for Humanity, which I think is an excellent organization doing useful work in helping to alleviate suffering. We might consider as a sangha how we could contribute to it. Mike Wright

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  3. “Violence is the refuge of the incompetent” -- Isaac Asimov in "Foundation". Mike Wright

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  4. Here are some links with information on violence and Buddhism. Only a brief Google search turns up a lot more.

    http://thebuddhistblog.blogspot.com/2005/05/buddhism-and-violence.html

    http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism/buddhistethics/war.shtml

    http://www.sangam.org/articles/view/?id=118

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criticism_of_Buddhism#War_and_violence

    Mike Wright

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