Tolerance for 'relativism'?

Devil1976 SG

I'm not posting this up for against Buddhism.. In fact, it's here because I feel this forum has a wider space for such tolerance of open discussion... Smile

From what I've read within the other thread in here...

'Relativism' is part of the practice of Buddhism...? Then how far can one wander off in pondering... From the roots / thoughts / beliefs of Buddhism... Where would be the line beyond to cross...? Which... One would be reminded to be too far off....? And at those moments, would those who have wandered be told that they have 'strayed' in their thoughts...? And if yet so, why allow for 'relativism' in the 1st place... Question

casino_king SG

Are those really your eyes?

An Eternal Now SG

Anyone can have deep respect for the Buddha and his teachings, but to become a Buddhist you will have to take refuge in the Triple Gems. There are no other ways to become a disciple of the Buddha and a Buddhist.

To be a Buddhist one has to be committed to his refuge and refuge vows, which includes not relying on external sources of refuge/taking refuge in deities and gods, since they have not transcended samsara and will not lead one towards freedom from samsara. More info: http://www.khandro.net/Buddhist_becoming.htm

As for 'relativism'? Can you explain in details? Does it mean if you think it is true, then it is true? If thats the case, of course not.. you mean what those psychotically delusional believes is true? Laughing In fact nothing we can grasp conceptually is absolute. It can only be known through awakening. Therefore Buddhism is ultimately beyond theories.

casino_king SG

OK What happened to your eyes?

neutral_onliner SG

where's the lovely eyes huh?

why gone liao? Smile

ICanOnlyHope SG

What eyes? Question

Isis SG

'Relativism' isn't part of the practice...

neutral_onliner SG

Yes 'Relativism' isn't part of the practice rather it is the practise of Tolerance Cool

Devil1976 SG

Hmm... Ok... In that case, what's the tolerance level Buddhism has for 'relativism'...?

I shall explain a bit more in my next post?

Devil1976 SG

Belief that there is not only one absolute creator to be defined but just a matter of how you look at things... That relatively different perceptions can be accepted or tolerated under the arms of buddhism...?

An Eternal Now SG

Very sorry! I have absolutely no idea how come I forgot to check on this topic again...

In Buddhism, we already do not have a belief in an absolute creator. So what do you mean by relatively different perceptions?

An Eternal Now SG

It is not a matter of tolerance. Because there is nothing for us to tolerate. You are free to believe what you want to believe. We do not say 'Since you do not believe in the things I do, you are going to hell'. But generally Buddhists should avoid the false views that Buddha listed if we want to become enlightened like the Buddha quickly.

But if you claim to be a Buddhist by believing in all other weird stuff that has nothing to do with Buddhism, then obviously that is wrong and will give people misunderstanding of what Buddhism is.

But generally Buddhists who has taken refuge in the Triple Gems do not rely on other samsaric beings (beings still unenlightened/in samsara) for refuge.

laoda99 SG

If u can hold these views for Buddhism, why can't u see Christianity is also the same. A Christian who claim to be a Christian cannot believe in all other weird stuff that has nothing to do with Christianity.

A Christian is one who believe in the triune God, salvation by faith alone in Jesus Christ and belief that Christ died for our sins and was raised on the 3rd day, and his work of redemption is FINISHED on the cross. Anything else would be extra-biblical.

An Eternal Now SG

Hmm thats because your definition is that whatever Jesus taught is only in the bible and 4 gospels. Some others have different views.

As for Buddhism, this was never an issue.

laoda99 SG

That's not MY definition. This is what is found in mainstream Christianity. U wouldn't call Fa Lun Gong or Nichiren Buddhists right?

Same for Christians won't call gnostics Christians. Tien Dao also believe in Christ but as a spiritual leader and it is a cult.

Buddhism do not have this problem becoz it is "ambiguous" with dogma.

An Eternal Now SG

I never said those gospels are recognised by mainstream Christianity. But actually some of those gospels still cannot be ruled out.

Similarly nowadays I try to refrain any controversial sects as being labelled as a cult unless their behaviors really have cult elements/brainwashing, etc.

laoda99 SG

Mainstream Christianity took the 4 gospels as authentic, while categorising the others into "apocryha". U can recognise mainstream Christianity by the views I stated in my previous posts.

Jehovah Witness, and mormons, are clear-cut Christian cults. Read more abt them in wikipedia if u want to know why.

An Eternal Now SG

I see.. anyway I do not support JW and mormons.. hehe

Devil1976 SG

It's ok. Mr. Green

Devil1976 SG

Can you explain a bit more on this part about taking refuge in other samsaric beings? Are you talking about 'teachings' only..? Or are you saying that they should not seek any help from other samsaric beings?

What if one day, they come across a samsaric being who give them an advice which is meaning but yet contradicts to the Buddhist's belief? (pls don't tell me this won't happen, we're just making an assumption here...) For whatever or however reason that it seems to make perfect sense to follow the samsaric being's words...

Should they really be choosing to shut their eyes (from evil?) and follow strictly to the buddhist's practice..? Or would they really be encouraged to EXPLORE Question