kılıç_mehmet wrote
How do you explain the hundreds of years old of priesthoods and monestaries where they pray to idols of buddha?
That's a fair question. I own a few different statues of buddhas and other relics of worship myself. I think that Buddha is revered for his wisdom and compassion, and the "idols" of him are presented to set an ambiance or atmosphere conducive to meditation and contemplation for followers throughout the world. There is a mystical and transcendental side to buddhism that is part of the human experience when one meditates regularly. I have gone to a temple in NY state a few times that houses many statues and paintings and such. I found it interesting and inspirational in a natural and cultural sense. There are many religous elements and rituals in buddhism that are meant to heighten awareness and serenity. But the Buddha, at least in the great majority of eastern traditions, is not viewed as a god or 'the one and only' God, yet is seen as 'godlike' by embodying boundless compassion and wisdom. There are monasteries within the institution of buddhism of course for people who choose to fully immerse themselves in the teachings, meditation practices and community service. I am just a layman who studies it and strives to meditate more for growth and peace of mind. It has truly opened my mind in many ways and set a solid groundwork for more knowledge and deeper understanding of nearly everything in my life and in the world today. I would recommend anyone to read and find out more on their own for sure. It is actually very fascinating and intense!
Nebuloso mentioned that the concept of reincarnation turned him off from it, which is very understandable. I don't know if I totally agree or understand it myself, but I don't see it as very important or pertinent to my practice. I generally have a very liberal idea of reincarnation in that it simply just suggests constant change or evolutionary transformation of matter. Rebirth can be symbolic of mental states and feelings within. Basically, Buddhism for me, teaches better self control and points to a spiritual path of greater personal freedom and happiness. It is an ancient scientific method for attaining Nirvana! Thx, peace!
How do you explain the hundreds of years old of priesthoods and monestaries where they pray to idols of buddha?
That's a fair question. I own a few different statues of buddhas and other relics of worship myself. I think that Buddha is revered for his wisdom and compassion, and the "idols" of him are presented to set an ambiance or atmosphere conducive to meditation and contemplation for followers throughout the world. There is a mystical and transcendental side to buddhism that is part of the human experience when one meditates regularly. I have gone to a temple in NY state a few times that houses many statues and paintings and such. I found it interesting and inspirational in a natural and cultural sense. There are many religous elements and rituals in buddhism that are meant to heighten awareness and serenity. But the Buddha, at least in the great majority of eastern traditions, is not viewed as a god or 'the one and only' God, yet is seen as 'godlike' by embodying boundless compassion and wisdom. There are monasteries within the institution of buddhism of course for people who choose to fully immerse themselves in the teachings, meditation practices and community service. I am just a layman who studies it and strives to meditate more for growth and peace of mind. It has truly opened my mind in many ways and set a solid groundwork for more knowledge and deeper understanding of nearly everything in my life and in the world today. I would recommend anyone to read and find out more on their own for sure. It is actually very fascinating and intense!
Nebuloso mentioned that the concept of reincarnation turned him off from it, which is very understandable. I don't know if I totally agree or understand it myself, but I don't see it as very important or pertinent to my practice. I generally have a very liberal idea of reincarnation in that it simply just suggests constant change or evolutionary transformation of matter. Rebirth can be symbolic of mental states and feelings within. Basically, Buddhism for me, teaches better self control and points to a spiritual path of greater personal freedom and happiness. It is an ancient scientific method for attaining Nirvana! Thx, peace!
You, yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.
There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting.
Buddha
There are only two mistakes one can make along the road to truth; not going all the way, and not starting.
Buddha
Namaste Bgood 
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