Why Buddhism?

I have been roughly acquainted with Buddhism since I was 20 years old, now more than 40 years. Initially I was put off by the mysticism, "reincarnation" or other misunderstandings of Buddhism. Most of the mystery I found previously in Buddhism was apparently due to the foreign language issue, because the teachings generally are quite frank, practical and transparent. There are mysterious teachings in each of the most active traditions, but these can either be accepted or viewed as aesthetic expressions of the mysteries inherent in life and human nature. The esoteric practices are cosmological traditions that have grown up without the benefit of modern 20th century scientific discoveries (as with the development of Christianity.) The art, the icons, the symbolism of Buddhism, as well as for any religious tradition, can appear mysterious. However, these human creations are most often devices to help devotees remember and incorporate the teachings into their lives. Art can be viewed as another kind of language, when we know the meanings the mysterious nature usually disappears. Now after having done a general study and prepared these lessons [having written the Buddhist Sutras,] I have an heightened appreciation for the spirituality of the people in Southern Asia and their practice of the religion of Buddhism. More importantly, I understand the benefit that can accrue to those schooled in Western philosophy, or Christianity of any stripe of religion, from following this course of study.



The goal of Buddhist dharma – Teachings -- as well as the Buddhist Sutras, is to make a transformation in the mind of the participants and thus have a significant and positive impact on each person’s life. “There is, of course, an enormous diversity within Buddhism and no fixed standard of orthodoxy. Nevertheless, even differing conceptions of the authentic tradition – and each school has some notion of orthodoxy – reveal a common ground of discussion.” (de Bary, pg. i) Thus there is some flexibility about what one can accept as part of a Buddhist practice, and I take from the different traditions according to what seems consistent in several different teachings, and what seems most authentic for my personal needs.
It is important to emphasize that the practice beyond any course of study is the essential ingredient of Buddhist training. “There are both direct and indirect ways of transforming the mind. Meditation is the most direct method, because in meditation the mind changes itself. But many other activities can have a positive, even transforming, effect through less direct means: friendship, Right Livelihood, and [participation in] the arts can all be seen as practices in this sense…” (Vishvapani, pg. 45) Furthermore it is possible to rigorously test one’s self-discipline, growth in awareness, development of compassion, ethical choices, and non-attachment when one engages in meaningful activities with family and friends.
“…The mind is always moving, always processing new ideas, new perceptions, and new sensations. That’s its job. Meditation is about learning to work with the mind as it is, not about trying to force it into some sort of Buddhist straitjacket.” (Mingyur, pg. 196)
One central purpose of any religion is to improve the lives of the adherents by influencing and being a catalyst for change. This is often considered the essence of Buddhism (at least for Theravada Buddhism) and this is an essential step toward enlightenment. The virtue of abiding by moral principles and the discussion of ethical requirements of Buddhism were traditionally a central focus of Buddha’s lessons. I try to make improvements in my life, not everyone sees that of course. ;-)But moral conduct and rules of the Sangha (group of adherents) are outlined and discussed with this as a goal.