Buddhism in daily life - Mindfulness in every day tasks Archiv
364 Episoden
5 Minuten
People and mental problems
Buddhism and Mental Problems
In today's complicated world, many, if not very many, people have mental problems.
People are insecure, frightened, usually have enough to do but little time to take care of themselves, have developed neuroses, depression and mental problems.
Since the connection to the church is decreasing more and more, the spiritual component also comes less and less into play. Most people live like this, trying to take care of everything "by themselves".
Even psychiatrists or other trained helpers are hardly consulted, after all "the others have a quirk, but I don't".
The Bible states:
"WHY DO YOU SEE THE MOTE IN YOUR BROTHER'S EYE, BUT DO NOT NOTICE THE BEAM IN YOUR OWN EYE? " (MATTHEW 7:3)
Apparently, the problem is not really new, however, in our fast-paced times, a new accelerating factor is added (e.g., Internet).
If you tell people that something is wrong, that their behavior is sick, they usually get angry, turn away or even go on (verbal) attack.
Mental problems, in my opinion, are caused by too much (and wrong) thinking, already the historical Buddha said that this is why we are all sick, that thinking does us more harm than good.
If we look at the inmates of a mental institution, most of them have their disease because of thinking.
Our ego starts, we think about this and that, thoughts ramble on and on, the line between a strong ego and a mental problem are blurred.
Consciously track your thoughts, instruct your ego to refrain from superfluous thoughts (would have, would have, if, if, if), think only useful, positive thoughts, use the opportunities to think "nothing" once in a while.
We all have mental problems, the first step to recovery is to admit this to ourselves, to recognize it.
We are all sick, and we all have the opportunity to get well.
Don't you want to give it a try?
DURING THE DAY IT IS VERY EASY TO SEE THINGS SOBERLY AND UNSENTIMENTALLY. AT NIGHT, IT'S A WHOLE DIFFERENT STORY
- ERNEST HEMINGWAY - US WRITER - 1899 TO 1961
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and Mental Problems
In today's complicated world, many, if not very many, people have mental problems.
People are insecure, frightened, usually have enough to do but little time to take care of themselves, have developed neuroses, depression and mental problems.
Since the connection to the church is decreasing more and more, the spiritual component also comes less and less into play. Most people live like this, trying to take care of everything "by themselves".
Even psychiatrists or other trained helpers are hardly consulted, after all "the others have a quirk, but I don't".
The Bible states:
"WHY DO YOU SEE THE MOTE IN YOUR BROTHER'S EYE, BUT DO NOT NOTICE THE BEAM IN YOUR OWN EYE? " (MATTHEW 7:3)
Apparently, the problem is not really new, however, in our fast-paced times, a new accelerating factor is added (e.g., Internet).
If you tell people that something is wrong, that their behavior is sick, they usually get angry, turn away or even go on (verbal) attack.
Mental problems, in my opinion, are caused by too much (and wrong) thinking, already the historical Buddha said that this is why we are all sick, that thinking does us more harm than good.
If we look at the inmates of a mental institution, most of them have their disease because of thinking.
Our ego starts, we think about this and that, thoughts ramble on and on, the line between a strong ego and a mental problem are blurred.
Consciously track your thoughts, instruct your ego to refrain from superfluous thoughts (would have, would have, if, if, if), think only useful, positive thoughts, use the opportunities to think "nothing" once in a while.
We all have mental problems, the first step to recovery is to admit this to ourselves, to recognize it.
We are all sick, and we all have the opportunity to get well.
Don't you want to give it a try?
DURING THE DAY IT IS VERY EASY TO SEE THINGS SOBERLY AND UNSENTIMENTALLY. AT NIGHT, IT'S A WHOLE DIFFERENT STORY
- ERNEST HEMINGWAY - US WRITER - 1899 TO 1961
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
You can't stop the wave
Buddhism and the perfect wave
Have you ever seen surfing on TV or on the beach?
It's all about the right moment to "jump on" the wave, to ride it, to surf it.
And it all has to be in harmony with nature, we are a part of nature, but often we forget this.
We didn't make the wave, I didn't make the path, nature made the wave, I have to become a part of the wave, of the water.
If we are too tense, our body becomes hard. We can't be part of the wave then. Flexible like bamboo, hard yet soft, we should be, firm yet gentle, fast yet slow.
All we have to do is open our eyes, the rest comes by itself. Similar to the "enlightenment" that comes to those who desire it.
Like the perfect wave, our normal life is also a part of nature.
We have to go through fear, accept our destiny.
Similar to a boxing match, we are attacked, our body reacts "without thinking", automatically, out of the nature of things.
When the wave comes, see the reality of fear, open your eyes, we cannot "surf" against the wave, we must "go" with it.
Buddha said that you can't stop the waves.
So we can't change things in our daily life. When it rains, or the sun shines, we have to accept the weather, keep our eyes open, look realistically at the things around us, and enjoy the waves.
SOCIETY IS A WAVE. IT ITSELF MOVES FORWARD, BUT NOT THE WATER IT IS MADE OF.
- RALPH WALDO EMERSON - US PHILOSOPHER AND WRITER - 1803 TO 1882
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and the perfect wave
Have you ever seen surfing on TV or on the beach?
It's all about the right moment to "jump on" the wave, to ride it, to surf it.
And it all has to be in harmony with nature, we are a part of nature, but often we forget this.
We didn't make the wave, I didn't make the path, nature made the wave, I have to become a part of the wave, of the water.
If we are too tense, our body becomes hard. We can't be part of the wave then. Flexible like bamboo, hard yet soft, we should be, firm yet gentle, fast yet slow.
All we have to do is open our eyes, the rest comes by itself. Similar to the "enlightenment" that comes to those who desire it.
Like the perfect wave, our normal life is also a part of nature.
We have to go through fear, accept our destiny.
Similar to a boxing match, we are attacked, our body reacts "without thinking", automatically, out of the nature of things.
When the wave comes, see the reality of fear, open your eyes, we cannot "surf" against the wave, we must "go" with it.
Buddha said that you can't stop the waves.
So we can't change things in our daily life. When it rains, or the sun shines, we have to accept the weather, keep our eyes open, look realistically at the things around us, and enjoy the waves.
SOCIETY IS A WAVE. IT ITSELF MOVES FORWARD, BUT NOT THE WATER IT IS MADE OF.
- RALPH WALDO EMERSON - US PHILOSOPHER AND WRITER - 1803 TO 1882
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Yuima Sutra
Buddhism and the Yuima Sutra (Wéimójié - 佛說維摩詰經 - Vimalakīrtinirdeśa).
When people are drowning, the master must jump into the water and help. Nothing can be accomplished from the outside.
A master must not be proud, when people are suffering, he must assist these persons.
According to "Yuima" it makes no difference whether it is a prostitute or a minister; the master must "be with the people", otherwise he only gives empty advice.
"Yuima" was a lay monk in India, he was a disciple of the historical Buddha Siddhārtha Gautama, an ordinary person. His remarks were witty and witty, full of humor and wisdom.
The core message of the "Yuima Sutra" is that anyone can "awaken" and experience "enlightenment" if they sincerely try to do so. According to "Yuima", it does not matter whether one is rich or poor, intelligent or stupid, even whether one believes in Buddha. Even if one does not use the words of Buddha, one could find "salvation".
"Yuima" had no rules in this, he went everywhere; having no rules was his only rule. He even went to pleasure houses to enlighten people there. He walked on the paths of Chan (Zen), using the words of the people he met. In order to respond to their needs, he communicated with them, penetrating their minds.
He did this without caring about his own person, he went "through" the situations and incidents. As with the spirit of the historical Buddha, like parents taking care of their children.
Whether "Yuima" got into dirty water or into clean water, the point is that a master must go where people need him.
Helping not with "words" but by "doing and acting," comparable to Mother Theresa.
His remarks point out that the whole life is only a dream, that it is only about "awakening".
The lotus grows only in dirty water, but never gets dirty, that's why we call the lotus "Buddha's flower", that can be us too, whoever.
This is what Buddha and Yuima said, so why not try it.
THE THOUGHT LAYS THE FOUNDATION FOR THE DEED
- HELMUTH VON MOLTKE - PRUSSIAN FIELD MARSHAL - 1800 TO 1891
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and the Yuima Sutra (Wéimójié - 佛說維摩詰經 - Vimalakīrtinirdeśa).
When people are drowning, the master must jump into the water and help. Nothing can be accomplished from the outside.
A master must not be proud, when people are suffering, he must assist these persons.
According to "Yuima" it makes no difference whether it is a prostitute or a minister; the master must "be with the people", otherwise he only gives empty advice.
"Yuima" was a lay monk in India, he was a disciple of the historical Buddha Siddhārtha Gautama, an ordinary person. His remarks were witty and witty, full of humor and wisdom.
The core message of the "Yuima Sutra" is that anyone can "awaken" and experience "enlightenment" if they sincerely try to do so. According to "Yuima", it does not matter whether one is rich or poor, intelligent or stupid, even whether one believes in Buddha. Even if one does not use the words of Buddha, one could find "salvation".
"Yuima" had no rules in this, he went everywhere; having no rules was his only rule. He even went to pleasure houses to enlighten people there. He walked on the paths of Chan (Zen), using the words of the people he met. In order to respond to their needs, he communicated with them, penetrating their minds.
He did this without caring about his own person, he went "through" the situations and incidents. As with the spirit of the historical Buddha, like parents taking care of their children.
Whether "Yuima" got into dirty water or into clean water, the point is that a master must go where people need him.
Helping not with "words" but by "doing and acting," comparable to Mother Theresa.
His remarks point out that the whole life is only a dream, that it is only about "awakening".
The lotus grows only in dirty water, but never gets dirty, that's why we call the lotus "Buddha's flower", that can be us too, whoever.
This is what Buddha and Yuima said, so why not try it.
THE THOUGHT LAYS THE FOUNDATION FOR THE DEED
- HELMUTH VON MOLTKE - PRUSSIAN FIELD MARSHAL - 1800 TO 1891
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Buddhism and the clear view
University degrees, journeyman's certificates, master's certificates, accreditations, credentials, paper upon paper, web pages upon web pages, texts upon texts.
Blind faith in diplomas, certificates, bills and contracts, videos and podcasts.
But how do you recognize the person who can really help you? For example, a Chan master (Zen).
How can you find out the real masters among the many "experts"? And anyway, what makes a real teacher?
Our view of things is clouded, like dirty glasses, layers upon layers are stored on our perception.
Habits, upbringing, disposition, genes, all kinds of causes have led to the pollution on our "glasses".
A good Chan master clears our vision, he removes layer upon layer from our glasses, he enables us to see again, to recognize reality again.
He cleans our glasses, gently and calmly, without haste, always speaking the truth, leading slowly, but firmly and decisively.
Ink on paper is nothing, "emptiness is form", and "form is emptiness".
When we meet a person who can help us further, we notice that we suddenly see better again, it is simply easier for us to speak the truth openly (because what is true may be said, must be said).
Most people are looking for happiness, improvement, development of their person for the better.
What a great feeling when layer after layer falls off the glasses and we can truly SEE again.
YOU NEVER NOTICE WHAT HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE, YOU ALWAYS SEE ONLY WHAT REMAINS TO BE DONE
- MARIE CURIE - POLISH PHYSICIST - 1867 TO 1934
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
University degrees, journeyman's certificates, master's certificates, accreditations, credentials, paper upon paper, web pages upon web pages, texts upon texts.
Blind faith in diplomas, certificates, bills and contracts, videos and podcasts.
But how do you recognize the person who can really help you? For example, a Chan master (Zen).
How can you find out the real masters among the many "experts"? And anyway, what makes a real teacher?
Our view of things is clouded, like dirty glasses, layers upon layers are stored on our perception.
Habits, upbringing, disposition, genes, all kinds of causes have led to the pollution on our "glasses".
A good Chan master clears our vision, he removes layer upon layer from our glasses, he enables us to see again, to recognize reality again.
He cleans our glasses, gently and calmly, without haste, always speaking the truth, leading slowly, but firmly and decisively.
Ink on paper is nothing, "emptiness is form", and "form is emptiness".
When we meet a person who can help us further, we notice that we suddenly see better again, it is simply easier for us to speak the truth openly (because what is true may be said, must be said).
Most people are looking for happiness, improvement, development of their person for the better.
What a great feeling when layer after layer falls off the glasses and we can truly SEE again.
YOU NEVER NOTICE WHAT HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE, YOU ALWAYS SEE ONLY WHAT REMAINS TO BE DONE
- MARIE CURIE - POLISH PHYSICIST - 1867 TO 1934
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Closed eyes
Close your eyes
.... what you see then belongs to you!
Many people define themselves by what they own, what they buy, what they present to the outside world.
This is understandable, because the inside is not "showable" and it is difficult to explain or even to represent it.
As Buddhists, it is precisely not the outside that we find ourselves through, but our inner values that count, such as compassion, love and understanding.
When we leave this earth, we can take nothing with us, so nothing belongs to us. The last shirt has no pockets.
We have only borrowed things, they are not ours, everything we call "ours" does not belong to us, will decay, will turn to dust in thousands of years just like us.
When we close our eyes, what do we see?
NOTHING
And that is exactly what belongs to us, nothing.
If we realize this fact, then only one real solution remains, namely to take care of our inner being.
It would be a good idea to try the teachings of Buddha. What made this worldview so strong that it has been passed on by people for over 2500 years? What made this young Indian prince a role model for millions, an idol for thousands of years?
The historical Buddha found "enlightenment", he "awakened".
After giving up his meditative practices after six years, exhausted with not experiencing "enlightenment", that is exactly when he "awakened".
"Enlightenment" is the goal of every Buddhist.
And "enlightenment" is not an exclusive right of the historical Buddha, according to him, "awakening" is inherent in all of us, but is "buried", yet still there, within us.
Let's search for it together, within ourselves.
AN EYE FOR AN EYE - AND THE WHOLE WORLD WILL BE BLIND
- MAHATMA GANDHI - INDIAN LAWYER - 1869 TO 1948
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Close your eyes
.... what you see then belongs to you!
Many people define themselves by what they own, what they buy, what they present to the outside world.
This is understandable, because the inside is not "showable" and it is difficult to explain or even to represent it.
As Buddhists, it is precisely not the outside that we find ourselves through, but our inner values that count, such as compassion, love and understanding.
When we leave this earth, we can take nothing with us, so nothing belongs to us. The last shirt has no pockets.
We have only borrowed things, they are not ours, everything we call "ours" does not belong to us, will decay, will turn to dust in thousands of years just like us.
When we close our eyes, what do we see?
NOTHING
And that is exactly what belongs to us, nothing.
If we realize this fact, then only one real solution remains, namely to take care of our inner being.
It would be a good idea to try the teachings of Buddha. What made this worldview so strong that it has been passed on by people for over 2500 years? What made this young Indian prince a role model for millions, an idol for thousands of years?
The historical Buddha found "enlightenment", he "awakened".
After giving up his meditative practices after six years, exhausted with not experiencing "enlightenment", that is exactly when he "awakened".
"Enlightenment" is the goal of every Buddhist.
And "enlightenment" is not an exclusive right of the historical Buddha, according to him, "awakening" is inherent in all of us, but is "buried", yet still there, within us.
Let's search for it together, within ourselves.
AN EYE FOR AN EYE - AND THE WHOLE WORLD WILL BE BLIND
- MAHATMA GANDHI - INDIAN LAWYER - 1869 TO 1948
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
8 Minuten
My first book reading
For the celebration of Chinese New Year, I was, together with my brother Taema Jun, in Shaolin Temple Europe, "asked" in advance by the abbot Shi Heng Zong to read from the book "Shaolin Rainer".
I was aware of his desire to read from my book. However, I struggled with myself in advance about whether I should participate in the Chinese New Year at all. The idea of talking about my life, of making personal things public, was very uncomfortable for me.
The abbot called several times and asked when we would come, and whether we (including my brother) would contribute something to the Chinese New Year, he was not put off even by my multiple refusals.
I have been close friends with the abbot of Shaolin Temple Europe Shi Heng Zong for over 20 years, so I did not feel comfortable after my cancellations. I couldn't stop thinking about him and our time together. My temple brother Taema (he is visiting from Korea for 3 months) felt my inner turmoil, so he called the abbot again. Previously, we had agreed that if our room was not yet assigned further, we would go, and the room was still reserved for us.
In short, we drove, and on the way, I was very thoughtful. We arrived late at the temple and checked into our room.
On New Year's Day, we sat in the abbot's office, planning for the celebrations had been completed. Taema was to give a Dharma talk (and promote his Dharma seminar on 2/21-23, see below) and I was to read from my book after all.
The uncomfortable feeling continued to spread through me.
In this context, I must mention that I had very mixed feelings about my book from the beginning. Certainly, I am proud of the fact to have been the first foreigner in Shaolin Temple in China more than 30 years ago, to have received the order from the abbot to open Shaolin, to have also opened the temple (which still exists today), to have founded other temples all over Europe. However, there were also very difficult times in the course of my history with Shaolin, very painful events, which I also do not want to remember.
Precisely because I do not want to remember, I did not want to do this book "actually". For many years the author Karl Kronmüller asked me to write this book. I always refused, I didn't want to have "much to do with Shaolin anymore. I had broken off all contact with the temple, with the monks. Only with my master Shi Yan Zi, the founder of Shaolin Temple England, I was always in contact. With Taema, my brother, I had intense conversations, almost daily, in Korea. Even from my friend Shi Heng Zong I had almost withdrawn.
Whenever Karl asked me again whether he could not tackle "the book", I refused, saying that surely the subject was of no interest to anyone and that I did not want to be reminded of those times.
One day I said "yes" when Karl asked again, hoping that the book would never be finished anyway. 6 months later it lay finished on the table in front of me.
I must have been mistaken.
Now my book is in Shaolin Temple Europe in the office of the abbot, he "insisted" on a reading. And I did not want to disappoint him, to contribute to the celebration of the Chinese New Year.
The celebration was wonderful, the abbot created a dreamlike atmosphere, people love the temple, and the ceremony was entertaining yet dignified, just like him, he is a great person.
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
For the celebration of Chinese New Year, I was, together with my brother Taema Jun, in Shaolin Temple Europe, "asked" in advance by the abbot Shi Heng Zong to read from the book "Shaolin Rainer".
I was aware of his desire to read from my book. However, I struggled with myself in advance about whether I should participate in the Chinese New Year at all. The idea of talking about my life, of making personal things public, was very uncomfortable for me.
The abbot called several times and asked when we would come, and whether we (including my brother) would contribute something to the Chinese New Year, he was not put off even by my multiple refusals.
I have been close friends with the abbot of Shaolin Temple Europe Shi Heng Zong for over 20 years, so I did not feel comfortable after my cancellations. I couldn't stop thinking about him and our time together. My temple brother Taema (he is visiting from Korea for 3 months) felt my inner turmoil, so he called the abbot again. Previously, we had agreed that if our room was not yet assigned further, we would go, and the room was still reserved for us.
In short, we drove, and on the way, I was very thoughtful. We arrived late at the temple and checked into our room.
On New Year's Day, we sat in the abbot's office, planning for the celebrations had been completed. Taema was to give a Dharma talk (and promote his Dharma seminar on 2/21-23, see below) and I was to read from my book after all.
The uncomfortable feeling continued to spread through me.
In this context, I must mention that I had very mixed feelings about my book from the beginning. Certainly, I am proud of the fact to have been the first foreigner in Shaolin Temple in China more than 30 years ago, to have received the order from the abbot to open Shaolin, to have also opened the temple (which still exists today), to have founded other temples all over Europe. However, there were also very difficult times in the course of my history with Shaolin, very painful events, which I also do not want to remember.
Precisely because I do not want to remember, I did not want to do this book "actually". For many years the author Karl Kronmüller asked me to write this book. I always refused, I didn't want to have "much to do with Shaolin anymore. I had broken off all contact with the temple, with the monks. Only with my master Shi Yan Zi, the founder of Shaolin Temple England, I was always in contact. With Taema, my brother, I had intense conversations, almost daily, in Korea. Even from my friend Shi Heng Zong I had almost withdrawn.
Whenever Karl asked me again whether he could not tackle "the book", I refused, saying that surely the subject was of no interest to anyone and that I did not want to be reminded of those times.
One day I said "yes" when Karl asked again, hoping that the book would never be finished anyway. 6 months later it lay finished on the table in front of me.
I must have been mistaken.
Now my book is in Shaolin Temple Europe in the office of the abbot, he "insisted" on a reading. And I did not want to disappoint him, to contribute to the celebration of the Chinese New Year.
The celebration was wonderful, the abbot created a dreamlike atmosphere, people love the temple, and the ceremony was entertaining yet dignified, just like him, he is a great person.
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
6 Minuten
The coronavirus and thinking
The coronavirus and thinking
Right now China is facing a big challenge, our thoughts are with the people in the People's Republic.
In videos, you can see countless people standing in front of hospitals, totally frightened and looking for help. In panic and with faces distorted by fear, am I sick, am I going to die?
We will all die, the question is how we deal with it.
Buddhists have a different philosophy of life and death, they also believe in rebirth. However, the situation is always different when you have affected yourself, then it is certainly more difficult to keep calm.
During the last wave of SARS, I was in China and traveled through the country with the abbot of the Shaolin Temple Shi Yong Xin. I asked the abbot if he had any fear or doubt about the disease.
He wisely replied:
"I BELIEVE IN KARMA, I BELIEVE THAT I WILL FALL ILL IF THIS IS MY DESTINY, AND THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN PROTECT ME THEN. IF IT IS MY DESTINY TO STAY HEALTHY, THEN THAT IS HOW IT WILL BE!"
If you believe in the teachings of Buddha, destiny is already fixed, you have to swim with the wave, and you cannot "swim" against the waves of destiny.
But thinking is what torments us, in our thoughts we already imagine how we will be taken away by the disease, how we will suffer, and die terribly. Our ego makes us think these things and imagines the strangest stories, which later never happen as we imagined them.
Therefore, such thinking does not help us, it harms us.
The Corona Virus can even help us. It helps us to see how finite our existence really is, how small and insignificant we are, and that life as we know it today can be over tomorrow.
Remember that this can be a good opportunity to reflect on your existence, and perhaps spend some time with your "enlightenment", pondering the topic of "awakening".
Just as her first great love came into her life, so can "enlightenment" come into her life.
Think back to the time of your first great love, how you kept thinking about your beloved, so it is with enlightenment.
If you are open to enlightenment, "enlightenment" will come into your life.
And here is the great misfortune of the coronavirus can be an impetus to realize the transience of life and to seek "enlightenment" NOW, not tomorrow because we do not know if tomorrow will come.
Illness is the most fearsome tyrant
- Albert Camus - French writer and philosopher - 1913 to 1960
The cure is worse than the disease
- Francis Bacon - English philosopher, statesman, and natural scientist - 1561 to 1626
There is only one disease, as there is only one health
- Ernst Jünger - German writer - 1895 to 1998
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
The coronavirus and thinking
Right now China is facing a big challenge, our thoughts are with the people in the People's Republic.
In videos, you can see countless people standing in front of hospitals, totally frightened and looking for help. In panic and with faces distorted by fear, am I sick, am I going to die?
We will all die, the question is how we deal with it.
Buddhists have a different philosophy of life and death, they also believe in rebirth. However, the situation is always different when you have affected yourself, then it is certainly more difficult to keep calm.
During the last wave of SARS, I was in China and traveled through the country with the abbot of the Shaolin Temple Shi Yong Xin. I asked the abbot if he had any fear or doubt about the disease.
He wisely replied:
"I BELIEVE IN KARMA, I BELIEVE THAT I WILL FALL ILL IF THIS IS MY DESTINY, AND THERE IS NOTHING THAT CAN PROTECT ME THEN. IF IT IS MY DESTINY TO STAY HEALTHY, THEN THAT IS HOW IT WILL BE!"
If you believe in the teachings of Buddha, destiny is already fixed, you have to swim with the wave, and you cannot "swim" against the waves of destiny.
But thinking is what torments us, in our thoughts we already imagine how we will be taken away by the disease, how we will suffer, and die terribly. Our ego makes us think these things and imagines the strangest stories, which later never happen as we imagined them.
Therefore, such thinking does not help us, it harms us.
The Corona Virus can even help us. It helps us to see how finite our existence really is, how small and insignificant we are, and that life as we know it today can be over tomorrow.
Remember that this can be a good opportunity to reflect on your existence, and perhaps spend some time with your "enlightenment", pondering the topic of "awakening".
Just as her first great love came into her life, so can "enlightenment" come into her life.
Think back to the time of your first great love, how you kept thinking about your beloved, so it is with enlightenment.
If you are open to enlightenment, "enlightenment" will come into your life.
And here is the great misfortune of the coronavirus can be an impetus to realize the transience of life and to seek "enlightenment" NOW, not tomorrow because we do not know if tomorrow will come.
Illness is the most fearsome tyrant
- Albert Camus - French writer and philosopher - 1913 to 1960
The cure is worse than the disease
- Francis Bacon - English philosopher, statesman, and natural scientist - 1561 to 1626
There is only one disease, as there is only one health
- Ernst Jünger - German writer - 1895 to 1998
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
6 Minuten
Many Buddhists live by precise rules
Buddhism and rules
Many Buddhists live by precise rules.
Buddhists should not eat meat, should not have sex, should do this, should not do that, should pray this way or that way; rules upon rules.
The study of sutras, the interpretation of words, and the precise meditation are at the heart of many Buddhist traditions.
But where do most of these precepts come from?
These rules were established mainly by monks and Buddhist "scholars" after the Buddha's death, similar to the myriad rules and regulations issued by the Catholic Church long after the death of Jesus Christ.
Can these later-established Buddhist rules and regulations be reconciled with the values of the historical Buddha?
I say no!
Buddha meditated for years to experience enlightenment and failed. Even Wikipedia states that Buddha did not achieve "enlightenment" through meditation and asceticism (rules).
When he had "given up" emaciated and close to death, he took a bath on the bank of the Neranjara River.
Then, settling down on the river bank, he experienced "enlightenment."
Only when the historical Buddha had completely let go, already completely given up, did he awaken.
Today we hear again and again that as a Buddhist one has to meditate in such and such a way, to imitate Buddha, to follow such and such rules.
Buddha himself could not explain how he experienced "enlightenment", Buddha has left no text from which it would be evident how one can experience "enlightenment".
In his "Dharma talks" he instructed his followers not to meditate, but to search for "enlightenment" within themselves.
His way was to limit the ego of his followers, to abolish one bad habit after another in them.
All rules are nothing but opinions and instructions.
However, it is not about following rules, but about achieving "enlightenment", about "awakening".
Most of the rules were created by the people who themselves were "not awakened" and did not really understand Buddha.
What made the historical Buddha so famous, so popular, that he is still a role model for millions of people today?
RULES?
NO!
Buddha is a household name to us because he experienced "enlightenment," not because he meditated for six years.
Although he explicitly said that he did not achieve his "enlightenment" through meditation, countless people meditate in hopes of awakening through it.
Rules upon rules!
THAT TASTE IS GOOD WHICH AGREES WITH THE RULES WHICH HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED BY REASON
- JOHANN CHRISTOPH GOTTSCHED - GERMAN WRITER - 1700 TO 1766
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and rules
Many Buddhists live by precise rules.
Buddhists should not eat meat, should not have sex, should do this, should not do that, should pray this way or that way; rules upon rules.
The study of sutras, the interpretation of words, and the precise meditation are at the heart of many Buddhist traditions.
But where do most of these precepts come from?
These rules were established mainly by monks and Buddhist "scholars" after the Buddha's death, similar to the myriad rules and regulations issued by the Catholic Church long after the death of Jesus Christ.
Can these later-established Buddhist rules and regulations be reconciled with the values of the historical Buddha?
I say no!
Buddha meditated for years to experience enlightenment and failed. Even Wikipedia states that Buddha did not achieve "enlightenment" through meditation and asceticism (rules).
When he had "given up" emaciated and close to death, he took a bath on the bank of the Neranjara River.
Then, settling down on the river bank, he experienced "enlightenment."
Only when the historical Buddha had completely let go, already completely given up, did he awaken.
Today we hear again and again that as a Buddhist one has to meditate in such and such a way, to imitate Buddha, to follow such and such rules.
Buddha himself could not explain how he experienced "enlightenment", Buddha has left no text from which it would be evident how one can experience "enlightenment".
In his "Dharma talks" he instructed his followers not to meditate, but to search for "enlightenment" within themselves.
His way was to limit the ego of his followers, to abolish one bad habit after another in them.
All rules are nothing but opinions and instructions.
However, it is not about following rules, but about achieving "enlightenment", about "awakening".
Most of the rules were created by the people who themselves were "not awakened" and did not really understand Buddha.
What made the historical Buddha so famous, so popular, that he is still a role model for millions of people today?
RULES?
NO!
Buddha is a household name to us because he experienced "enlightenment," not because he meditated for six years.
Although he explicitly said that he did not achieve his "enlightenment" through meditation, countless people meditate in hopes of awakening through it.
Rules upon rules!
THAT TASTE IS GOOD WHICH AGREES WITH THE RULES WHICH HAVE BEEN ESTABLISHED BY REASON
- JOHANN CHRISTOPH GOTTSCHED - GERMAN WRITER - 1700 TO 1766
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Are you a realist?
A true Buddhist can only be a realist!
There are the most different people with the most different views.
One group sees the world as it should be in their imagination, the "dreamers".
Another group sees everything quite black and gloomy, the "melancholics".
Still, other people see the world in a kinky and weird way, the "perverts".
There are also people who see everything through a fog of alcohol and/or drugs, the "stunned".
Still, other people see everything in the world as fun, the "funny ones."
Others only ever want to help, the "Mother Theresa types."
Another group sees the world from the position of a leader, the "leader".
In today's totally disturbing world, very few people see the world as it really is, realistically.
Buddha exhorted us to take the right knowledge as the basis of our actions and to follow it with the right speech, action, and behavior. Simply put, to be a realist, not to want to bend things to fit our particular views, but to accept them as they really are.
HENCE MY QUESTION:
ARE YOU A REALIST?
Can you try for just one day to check all your views, decisions, and actions to see if they correspond to reality?
THE UTOPIAN SEES PARADISE, THE REALIST PARADISE PLUS SNAKE
- FRIEDRICH HEBBEL - GERMAN DRAMATIST - 1813 TO 1863
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
A true Buddhist can only be a realist!
There are the most different people with the most different views.
One group sees the world as it should be in their imagination, the "dreamers".
Another group sees everything quite black and gloomy, the "melancholics".
Still, other people see the world in a kinky and weird way, the "perverts".
There are also people who see everything through a fog of alcohol and/or drugs, the "stunned".
Still, other people see everything in the world as fun, the "funny ones."
Others only ever want to help, the "Mother Theresa types."
Another group sees the world from the position of a leader, the "leader".
In today's totally disturbing world, very few people see the world as it really is, realistically.
Buddha exhorted us to take the right knowledge as the basis of our actions and to follow it with the right speech, action, and behavior. Simply put, to be a realist, not to want to bend things to fit our particular views, but to accept them as they really are.
HENCE MY QUESTION:
ARE YOU A REALIST?
Can you try for just one day to check all your views, decisions, and actions to see if they correspond to reality?
THE UTOPIAN SEES PARADISE, THE REALIST PARADISE PLUS SNAKE
- FRIEDRICH HEBBEL - GERMAN DRAMATIST - 1813 TO 1863
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Is a Buddhist allowed to have sex?
Can a Buddhist have sex?
Buddha had a son, Rahula.
Before his "awakening," Siddhartha Gautama lived as the son of a noble family in northern India. His father wanted to raise him to be his successor, so he shielded him in the palace and kept him with him.
For this purpose, he is said to have made his son's life "as pleasant as possible", and also to have supplied him with several pretty young women. This was quite common in noble circles at that time, so it seems plausible in the case of Buddha.
Also, according to the legends, the Buddha's father already feared at that time that his son could become a monk (Brahma).
When the historical Buddha was confronted with the reality of life on his excursions outside the palace, he realized the futility of his previous actions.
When he was about 29 years old, Buddha left his family and first became an ascetic, later he practiced meditation in a concentrated way.
At that time (until his "awakening" at the age of 35) sexual contact with the opposite sex was unlikely.
After his "awakening", Buddha taught both men and women for another 45 years.
What is certain is that the Buddha drafted the laws of sangha for the Buddhist monastic community. Monks were prohibited from intimate contact with the opposite sex.
Unlike monks, lay people were not prohibited from such contact.
Therefore, the question arises, is it permissible for Buddhists (lay people) to have sexual relations outside of marriage?
In my opinion, yes!
However, a Buddhist should consider the consequences of his actions at all times, so the following should apply: no adultery and no sexual debauchery.
Sexuality is given to us, it is nothing to be ashamed of.
LOVE IS A GREAT DISEASE - TWO MUST ALWAYS GO TO BED AT THE SAME TIME
- ROBERT LEMBKE - GERMAN JOURNALIST AND TELEVISION PRESENTER - 1913 TO 1989
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Can a Buddhist have sex?
Buddha had a son, Rahula.
Before his "awakening," Siddhartha Gautama lived as the son of a noble family in northern India. His father wanted to raise him to be his successor, so he shielded him in the palace and kept him with him.
For this purpose, he is said to have made his son's life "as pleasant as possible", and also to have supplied him with several pretty young women. This was quite common in noble circles at that time, so it seems plausible in the case of Buddha.
Also, according to the legends, the Buddha's father already feared at that time that his son could become a monk (Brahma).
When the historical Buddha was confronted with the reality of life on his excursions outside the palace, he realized the futility of his previous actions.
When he was about 29 years old, Buddha left his family and first became an ascetic, later he practiced meditation in a concentrated way.
At that time (until his "awakening" at the age of 35) sexual contact with the opposite sex was unlikely.
After his "awakening", Buddha taught both men and women for another 45 years.
What is certain is that the Buddha drafted the laws of sangha for the Buddhist monastic community. Monks were prohibited from intimate contact with the opposite sex.
Unlike monks, lay people were not prohibited from such contact.
Therefore, the question arises, is it permissible for Buddhists (lay people) to have sexual relations outside of marriage?
In my opinion, yes!
However, a Buddhist should consider the consequences of his actions at all times, so the following should apply: no adultery and no sexual debauchery.
Sexuality is given to us, it is nothing to be ashamed of.
LOVE IS A GREAT DISEASE - TWO MUST ALWAYS GO TO BED AT THE SAME TIME
- ROBERT LEMBKE - GERMAN JOURNALIST AND TELEVISION PRESENTER - 1913 TO 1989
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google, or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Change the words - or change yourself
Change the words - or change yourself
People have the habit of constantly complaining about others, I'm always right, others are wrong.
But what if all people are right, not just me?
If I change my thinking so that I also pay attention to the others and their feelings, maybe they are right.
The dog barks, that's its job. Children cry, mothers always have something to say. Everybody has an opinion. Newspapers, television, radio, constantly we are confronted with different views of other people.
That's nature, if you don't accept that, you can't make peace with your family, with your environment.
So we should put ourselves in other people's point of view before we judge, maybe look at others' position, include their worries and hardships in our worldview.
If I am always complaining about others, being against this and that, then my life will not be beautiful, I will always be fighting against others instead of at least trying the Buddha's way.
The Buddha's way is the middle way, it is balancing and just, appreciates the point of view of others, is concerned about balance.
Give it a try; this behavior can also be an important building block on the path to "enlightenment."
I am not saying that we have to put up with everything, sometimes we will automatically speak against it. We don't have to put up with everything, what is true may be said.
When sometimes enough is enough and I can't hear the "Bla Bla Bla" anymore, then also my patience has reached its limit.
Therefore: I am right - but all others are also right!
WORDS ARE THE MOST POWERFUL DRUG THAT MANKIND USES
- JOSEPH RUDYARD KIPLING - BRITISH WRITER - 1865 TO 1936
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Change the words - or change yourself
People have the habit of constantly complaining about others, I'm always right, others are wrong.
But what if all people are right, not just me?
If I change my thinking so that I also pay attention to the others and their feelings, maybe they are right.
The dog barks, that's its job. Children cry, mothers always have something to say. Everybody has an opinion. Newspapers, television, radio, constantly we are confronted with different views of other people.
That's nature, if you don't accept that, you can't make peace with your family, with your environment.
So we should put ourselves in other people's point of view before we judge, maybe look at others' position, include their worries and hardships in our worldview.
If I am always complaining about others, being against this and that, then my life will not be beautiful, I will always be fighting against others instead of at least trying the Buddha's way.
The Buddha's way is the middle way, it is balancing and just, appreciates the point of view of others, is concerned about balance.
Give it a try; this behavior can also be an important building block on the path to "enlightenment."
I am not saying that we have to put up with everything, sometimes we will automatically speak against it. We don't have to put up with everything, what is true may be said.
When sometimes enough is enough and I can't hear the "Bla Bla Bla" anymore, then also my patience has reached its limit.
Therefore: I am right - but all others are also right!
WORDS ARE THE MOST POWERFUL DRUG THAT MANKIND USES
- JOSEPH RUDYARD KIPLING - BRITISH WRITER - 1865 TO 1936
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Is a Buddhist allowed to eat meat or fish?
Buddhism and diet
Can a Buddhist eat meat or fish?
Buddha explained that in order to protect all living beings, meatless foods are to be preferred.
But Buddha did not know about modern meat factories. The so-called "modern diet" with "hamburgers" on every corner, "kebab" in every underpass, this was certainly not imaginable at the time of the historical Buddha.
How can a follower of the Buddhist philosophy in the Western world eat today? Without meat or meat products there is almost nowhere to eat. If you travel, for example, you can hardly eat vegetarian food.
As a Shaolin you are allowed to consume meat when you are training, Shaolin martial monks are exempt from the obligation to be vegetarian.
Personally, I eat meat and fish, but I pay attention to the quality. I strive to use it correctly, meaning that no piece should be wasted or thrown away. Animal welfare is an important issue for me. I also make sure that meat is "only" rarely and always a small portion on the plate.
The most important thing is that I dignify the animal I consume.
If you think about the animal when you eat it, you will automatically have a different relationship with meat and fish, you will be grateful to the animal, honor it, and generally be thankful for its food.
This gratitude makes a big difference, just try it!
Spend more money on the animal products you consume, eat meat (and fish) more consciously, in smaller quantities, gratefully and thoughtfully.
IF MODERN MAN HAD TO KILL THE ANIMALS HE USES FOR FOOD HIMSELF, THE NUMBER OF PLANT EATERS WOULD INCREASE IMMEASURABLY.
- CHRISTIAN MORGENSTERN - GERMAN POET - 1871 TO 1914
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and diet
Can a Buddhist eat meat or fish?
Buddha explained that in order to protect all living beings, meatless foods are to be preferred.
But Buddha did not know about modern meat factories. The so-called "modern diet" with "hamburgers" on every corner, "kebab" in every underpass, this was certainly not imaginable at the time of the historical Buddha.
How can a follower of the Buddhist philosophy in the Western world eat today? Without meat or meat products there is almost nowhere to eat. If you travel, for example, you can hardly eat vegetarian food.
As a Shaolin you are allowed to consume meat when you are training, Shaolin martial monks are exempt from the obligation to be vegetarian.
Personally, I eat meat and fish, but I pay attention to the quality. I strive to use it correctly, meaning that no piece should be wasted or thrown away. Animal welfare is an important issue for me. I also make sure that meat is "only" rarely and always a small portion on the plate.
The most important thing is that I dignify the animal I consume.
If you think about the animal when you eat it, you will automatically have a different relationship with meat and fish, you will be grateful to the animal, honor it, and generally be thankful for its food.
This gratitude makes a big difference, just try it!
Spend more money on the animal products you consume, eat meat (and fish) more consciously, in smaller quantities, gratefully and thoughtfully.
IF MODERN MAN HAD TO KILL THE ANIMALS HE USES FOR FOOD HIMSELF, THE NUMBER OF PLANT EATERS WOULD INCREASE IMMEASURABLY.
- CHRISTIAN MORGENSTERN - GERMAN POET - 1871 TO 1914
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
4 Minuten
Buddhism and politics
Buddhism and Politics
More and more often I receive letters asking me to comment on this or that topic in politics. Especially I should "show the flag" when it comes to the controversial opinions on political topics around the People's Republic of China.
Exactly that I will not do! Here applies "no politics"!
This blog is about Buddhism, not politics. If readers think they want to express their views, I would like to politely ask them to write to the responsible member of the Bundestag.
This is a guide for people who are interested in the teachings and philosophy of the Buddha and strive for enlightenment. In contrast to various religions, a Buddhist should also not judge, but only observe.
Also, I do not want to comment on distant events from my desk in Stuttgart, because it is not my place to do so.
This blog is from people for people, should be a help in daily life, and should be a support in the implementation of Buddhist philosophy.
I also do not want to be "harnessed" by supposed do-gooders.
Please refrain from such letters.
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and Politics
More and more often I receive letters asking me to comment on this or that topic in politics. Especially I should "show the flag" when it comes to the controversial opinions on political topics around the People's Republic of China.
Exactly that I will not do! Here applies "no politics"!
This blog is about Buddhism, not politics. If readers think they want to express their views, I would like to politely ask them to write to the responsible member of the Bundestag.
This is a guide for people who are interested in the teachings and philosophy of the Buddha and strive for enlightenment. In contrast to various religions, a Buddhist should also not judge, but only observe.
Also, I do not want to comment on distant events from my desk in Stuttgart, because it is not my place to do so.
This blog is from people for people, should be a help in daily life, and should be a support in the implementation of Buddhist philosophy.
I also do not want to be "harnessed" by supposed do-gooders.
Please refrain from such letters.
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
5 Minuten
Buddhism and the Gods
Buddhism and the Gods
Since earliest times, people have prayed to various gods. In the caves of our ancestors you can find idol statues, figurines and religious devotional objects.
It was always a matter of speaking to a "god". Praying has always been talking to a "higher authority".
In the course of the changeful history there were thousands of gods, often the deity even resembled each other, repeated the characters and characteristics (e.g. the different "sea gods").
Often armies faced each other in wars, the respective priests prayed for the victory of their troops.
Gods came and gods went, according to the spirit of the times and the taste of the people.
You can also pray to a "fish head" if you only believe in it.
Buddhism is completely different here. It is not about the search for a bringer of salvation, a figure from outside, but about the striving for "enlightenment" (according to Buddha, the solution for this lies within us).
No god, no person, no one can bring us this state, only we ourselves can search for it, within us, not outside.
THIS QUOTE SEEMS TO COME FROM THE HISTORICAL BUDDHA:
WHAT IS THE POINT OF PRAYING TO GODS? IS IT NOT FOOLISH TO BELIEVE THAT ANOTHER CAN BRING US BLISS OR MISERY?
WHEN YOU TALK TO GOD, YOU ARE RELIGIOUS. WHEN GOD TALKS TO YOU, YOU ARE INSANE.
- DR. GREGORY HOUSE - FICTIONAL DOCTOR IN A US TELEVISION SERIES
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
Buddhism and the Gods
Since earliest times, people have prayed to various gods. In the caves of our ancestors you can find idol statues, figurines and religious devotional objects.
It was always a matter of speaking to a "god". Praying has always been talking to a "higher authority".
In the course of the changeful history there were thousands of gods, often the deity even resembled each other, repeated the characters and characteristics (e.g. the different "sea gods").
Often armies faced each other in wars, the respective priests prayed for the victory of their troops.
Gods came and gods went, according to the spirit of the times and the taste of the people.
You can also pray to a "fish head" if you only believe in it.
Buddhism is completely different here. It is not about the search for a bringer of salvation, a figure from outside, but about the striving for "enlightenment" (according to Buddha, the solution for this lies within us).
No god, no person, no one can bring us this state, only we ourselves can search for it, within us, not outside.
THIS QUOTE SEEMS TO COME FROM THE HISTORICAL BUDDHA:
WHAT IS THE POINT OF PRAYING TO GODS? IS IT NOT FOOLISH TO BELIEVE THAT ANOTHER CAN BRING US BLISS OR MISERY?
WHEN YOU TALK TO GOD, YOU ARE RELIGIOUS. WHEN GOD TALKS TO YOU, YOU ARE INSANE.
- DR. GREGORY HOUSE - FICTIONAL DOCTOR IN A US TELEVISION SERIES
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
6 Minuten
The right acquisition of life
The "right" acquisition of life is also the focus of life in Buddhism.
But what is "right" life acquisition?
I know people who have inherited a lot of money. Since then they have not worked and are bored beyond measure, occupying themselves with trivialities, going 'shopping', wasting their money on luxury, amusement, alcohol and drugs. They are usually in a bad mood, have no drive and define themselves only by material things.
Then I know other people who (despite working diligently) never really have any money, but are always in a good mood, take pride in their work, are dutiful and punctual.
Generally speaking, right livelihood must come from a source of income that is not to the detriment or oppression of others.
In this day and age, however, it is very difficult to delineate exactly what is harmful to other people or living beings and what is not.
The butcher, who slaughters animals on a continuous basis in order to supply mankind with food, is he harming other living beings, or is he just doing the work for the general public?
The lawyer who defends guilty criminals and obtains an acquittal for them, is he harming people?
The politician who does things just to get re-elected, what about him?
My opinion is that every person knows best for himself what he does, what consequences his actions have for other people and living beings. Everyone should evaluate their own work, fairly admit what they are doing.
As a Buddhist, one should realize that there can be no "black" and "white", not even in our work; everything is "gray". Only "good" does not exist, also only "bad" is not possible.
When one takes stock of one's actions, the good side should predominate, one should try to do "mainly" good.
Work is part of life, without it it quickly becomes boring; a meaningful occupation is very important, keeps us "afloat".
PERSONALITIES ARE NOT FORMED BY NICE SPEECHES, BUT BY WORK AND OWN PERFORMANCE.
- ALBERT EINSTEIN - THE MOST IMPORTANT THEORETICAL PHYSICIST IN THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE - 1879 TO 1955
THE MORE PLEASURE YOU GET FROM YOUR WORK, THE BETTER IT PAYS
- MARK TWAIN - AMERICAN WRITER - 1835 TO 1910
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
The "right" acquisition of life is also the focus of life in Buddhism.
But what is "right" life acquisition?
I know people who have inherited a lot of money. Since then they have not worked and are bored beyond measure, occupying themselves with trivialities, going 'shopping', wasting their money on luxury, amusement, alcohol and drugs. They are usually in a bad mood, have no drive and define themselves only by material things.
Then I know other people who (despite working diligently) never really have any money, but are always in a good mood, take pride in their work, are dutiful and punctual.
Generally speaking, right livelihood must come from a source of income that is not to the detriment or oppression of others.
In this day and age, however, it is very difficult to delineate exactly what is harmful to other people or living beings and what is not.
The butcher, who slaughters animals on a continuous basis in order to supply mankind with food, is he harming other living beings, or is he just doing the work for the general public?
The lawyer who defends guilty criminals and obtains an acquittal for them, is he harming people?
The politician who does things just to get re-elected, what about him?
My opinion is that every person knows best for himself what he does, what consequences his actions have for other people and living beings. Everyone should evaluate their own work, fairly admit what they are doing.
As a Buddhist, one should realize that there can be no "black" and "white", not even in our work; everything is "gray". Only "good" does not exist, also only "bad" is not possible.
When one takes stock of one's actions, the good side should predominate, one should try to do "mainly" good.
Work is part of life, without it it quickly becomes boring; a meaningful occupation is very important, keeps us "afloat".
PERSONALITIES ARE NOT FORMED BY NICE SPEECHES, BUT BY WORK AND OWN PERFORMANCE.
- ALBERT EINSTEIN - THE MOST IMPORTANT THEORETICAL PHYSICIST IN THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE - 1879 TO 1955
THE MORE PLEASURE YOU GET FROM YOUR WORK, THE BETTER IT PAYS
- MARK TWAIN - AMERICAN WRITER - 1835 TO 1910
Copyright: https://shaolin-rainer.de
(Please also download my app "Buddha-Blog English" from the Apple and Android stores)
Please rate us on Apple, Google or Spotify podcast to help us promote the show
