Originally posted by neutral_onliner:
We are [b]encouraged to think for ourselves.
Buddhism is not
dogmatic, depends on reason, does not
expect blind faith, does not
contradict science.
http://www.thubtenchodron.org/AudioLibrary/audio_OtherArticles/WhyBuddhism_1-4_19.ram
We are encouraged to integrate the teachings into our
life. Buddhism provides a step-by-step method for working with
our mind to achieve internal peace.
http://www.thubtenchodron.org/AudioLibrary/audio_OtherArticles/WhyBuddhism_2-4_21.ram
We have the power and ability to change
our lives - we create the causes for what we
experience. Everybody is equal; nobody is inherently evil.
Emphasizes respect for all religions and their followers. Shows how
to go beyond the happiness and suffering of this life.
http://www.thubtenchodron.org/AudioLibrary/audio_OtherArticles/WhyBuddhism_3-4_24.ram
thubten chodron in
Singapore
Questions
asked:
Buddhism is more demanding and requires more effort from its
followers compared to some other religions where if one accepts the
dogma, one will be guaranteed a place in heaven. Please
comment.
- Is there a God?
- Do Buddhists believe in miracles?
- How does Buddhism help a person who suffers from anxiety
disorder?
- Is there discrimination against women in Buddhism?
- You mentioned in last night's talk that karma is not cast in
stone. What do you mean? How does one change or purify one's
karma?
- What is the Buddhist view on financial planning, retirement
planning, and financial freedom?
- When we go to the temple and pay respect to the Buddhas and
bodhisattvas, instead of asking for something like wealth, what
state of mind should we have?
- What's the difference between reasoning and realizations? Do the
two come together?
- Buddhism seems quite dogmatic, because as Buddhists, we believe
in the Three Jewels, law of cause and effect, emptiness and
dependent origination.
Could you explain why you said it's not dogmatic?
- What should be the right motivation for taking refuge?
- If we do not have a teacher, are books on Buddhism enough to
guide us?
http://www.thubtenchodron.org/AudioLibrary/audio_OtherArticles/WhyBuddhism_4-4_25.ram[/b]
