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The uniqueness of Buddhism
Dear Little Rene',
Recently, some of my friends have introduced me to a foreigner who is really interested in
religions. I think it's really interesting, so I'll tell you what we've talked about.
"What's Buddhism like?"
"Well, I've just started studying it...
...So it's quite hard for me to convey my impression...
...By the way, if a free thinker would like to seek refuge in a religion. what would you
advise him?"
"Well, I would recommend that he should take refuge in
Buddhism...
...This is not because I'm Buddhist but because I have several reasons to support this
idea...
...First of all, Lord Buddha had neither forced nor comverted anyone to believe in his
Teachings...
...Conversely, He advised that one had to verify what He taught through one's own
experience...
...He also said that the taste of His Dhamma can be individually realised by the
practioner himself...
...Secondly, Buddhism puts emphasis on mind development...
...It is said in the Dhammapada that the mind precedes all things, that the mind is the
maker of all mental states...
...One will be happy or unhappy, good or bad. generous or cruel depending on one's
mind."
"What can you tell me about the Buddhist method for mind
development?"
"Well, by doing three main things simultaneously; to avoid bad, to do good, and to
purify the mind."
"How can one purify the mind?"
"By mediitation practice. The concept of this is to keep the mind form wandering or
to keep it steady at its place - the centre of the body where Mara cannot reach...
...Thirdly, Buddhism teaches the Four Noble Truths that have not been taught in any other
religions."
"I've heard that the Four Nobel Truths are the real heart of
Buddhism."
"That's right. Now, only three reasons will be enough for that
free thinker to make up his mind to take refuge in Buddhism, won't they?"
"Maybe, it's his duty to verify it himself."
That's all for now. Take care.
Love,
Zasha
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