Chapter 1: Personal Reflections on Buddhism

In my journey through spirituality, I often find myself drawn to various beliefs without fully committing to one. Although I am not a Buddhist, I have engaged with Buddhist teachings through travel, literature, and discussions. Recently, a friend invited me to join a Buddhist gathering, and after some persuasion, I decided to attend.

Despite my secular perspective on religion, I appreciate the insights that different philosophies offer. At the meeting, I found myself surrounded by individuals deeply connected to the teachings of the Buddha. I expressed my interest in spirituality but hesitated to adhere to any specific doctrine.

The gathering began with chanting, and I was struck by the unfamiliarity of the words. Curious about their meaning, I inquired from the principal chanter, who assured me she would explain later. However, as the chants accelerated, I felt increasingly disconnected, pondering the purpose behind the act of chanting without understanding its significance.

My understanding of Buddhism has primarily come from exploring its core principles, particularly during my visits to significant sites like Bodh Gaya and Sarnath. Here, I learned about Buddha's first sermon, where he introduced concepts like the Middle Way and the Four Noble Truths—collectively known as Dharma.

The chanting included the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum," a symbol of compassion, aimed at calming fears and soothing worries. Even though I struggled to focus during the chants, I found the vibrations comforting. Afterward, attendees shared personal stories about how Buddhism had impacted their lives, emphasizing a shift in mindset rather than a change in circumstances.

Section 1.1: Symbols and Practices

Throughout my travels to various Buddhist locations, I encountered key symbols such as the Bodhi tree, the Dharma wheel, and stupas, which are integral to Buddhist culture. These symbols, often seen in temples, represent the essence of Buddhist practice.

Subsection 1.1.1: The Life of Monks

Photo credit: Preeti Singh

My exploration also led me to observe the austere lives of Buddhist monks. Living with minimal possessions, they dedicate themselves to contemplation and prayer, adhering strictly to the Vinaya, which governs their way of life. This commitment to simplicity contrasts sharply with the elaborate temples and pagodas that I encountered during my travels.

Chapter 2: Questions Arising from Observations

As I reflect on the contrast between the simplicity of Buddhist teachings and the grandeur of its temples, two significant questions emerge:

1. How can the lavish displays of wealth be reconciled with the fundamental principles of Buddhism, which advocate for a life free from material attachments?
2. Despite the universal message of unity and love across various faiths, why do humans complicate these teachings by emphasizing differences?

In this enlightening video, Joseph Goldstein addresses questions posed by students regarding Buddhist teachings, providing insights into the core principles of Buddhism.

This video explores why certain questions in Buddhism remain unanswered, delving into the deeper meanings behind these inquiries and the essence of Buddhist philosophy.

As I navigate through different meditation groups and spiritual practices, I continue to believe that the essence of all philosophies points toward a similar path: to lead a life filled with kindness, simplicity, and compassion. Ultimately, it is about fostering love and sharing with those in need.

©Dr. Preeti Singh, 2023. To receive updates about my writings, subscribe to my content or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or via email: [email protected]