Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article

To: af_vet_rr

I'm not a Buddha expert but isn't this something he wouldn't have approved of?


8 posted on 10/31/2006 7:50:20 AM PST by VeniVidiVici (In God we trust. All others we monitor.)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 7 | View Replies ]


To: VeniVidiVici
Yes. But just like the Jesus relics, they somehow become tools of the religion.
9 posted on 10/31/2006 7:53:57 AM PST by CarrotAndStick (The articles posted by me needn't necessarily reflect my opinion.)
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 8 | View Replies ]

To: VeniVidiVici
I'm not a Buddha expert but isn't this something he wouldn't have approved of?

Probably not. But it is also doubtful that he would have disapproved. It is easier to understand Buddhism if you look at the Buddha's teachings as guidance, good advice, and not as edicts. Also, honoring a teacher who has died in this way is a sign of respect and the trust you had in him/her not worship. He was the first and accordingly the highest teacher in this age so it does seem appropriate to me.

Properly absorbing all of his teachings would negate any tendency towards idol worship as well. There is a fine line of difference between honoring and worshipping but the meaning in that difference is profound.

15 posted on 11/01/2006 7:39:32 PM PST by TigersEye ("Everywhere I go there's a Predator in tow, life goes on without me!")
[ Post Reply | Private Reply | To 8 | View Replies ]

Free Republic
Browse · Search
News/Activism
Topics · Post Article


FreeRepublic, LLC, PO BOX 9771, FRESNO, CA 93794
FreeRepublic.com is powered by software copyright 2000-2008 John Robinson