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Faith

Zen & Faith

Faith is an interesting concept. Without faith, we are left with nonsensical string theories and big bangs originating from nothingness. Well Buddhism teaches us about nothingness, the absence of existence.

Is there a God? Yes, of course there is, but not in the sense of a superhuman living in a cloud above us. That idea is silly and set aside for placating childish curiosity.

Should the existence of a superior life form casting judgement over us be the reason we act with goodness? I hope not, but unfortunately it seems to be the only motivator in a world of God-fearing instead of God-loving beings.

If you are good only because you know being bad will lead to negative consequences, then you are not being good for the right reasons, and therefore, not being good at all. This mentality is the same as being evil. Reject the idea of heaven as reward and then still focus on altruistic intentions, and you take the first step on a path of piety.

Buddhism is interesting, because the first commandment of Judeo-Christian laws is frequently implied through some of Buddhism's koans and teachings.

The very concept of Nirvana and the teaching of that concept are both compatible with the teaching of not worshipping false idols, not expecting entrance to heaven for being good, and other such moral dilemmas.

Essentially, Buddhism is the philosophical answer to the question of how to follow those laws of the Judeo-Christian Ten Commandments regarding being good to yourself, speaking truth, doing good onto others, worshipping properly, what not to worship, and others that are revealed as you continue along the proper path. There is not one person on this planet who is not selfish, including me. We have been taught greed and hate, but somehow expect others to follow the rules we ignore. Heaven is not a place where you can be evil as everyone else is good to others and naive to your intentions. In fact, if I were to describe hell, well, I'd use this planet as an example.

Stop worshiping Jesus, and for once, for the first time, be Jesus yourself. Perhaps then you will see where heaven truly resides.