Religion and faith .. A personal perspective.... Religion is inevitably something that demands faith, or belief from me. Given the variety of forms of religion, it is natural that definitions of faith are also various. One interpretation is to say that faith involves the sincere taking of our entire past as a foundation while simultaneously looking forward to the creation of a bright future. While this is a somewhat narrow perspective of the notion of faith, it reflects at least two essential points. One is that no one can rearrange his or her past. Whatever may be in our past, we have to accept it. The second point is that the thinking consciousness is operating while being continually subjected to the powerful influences of the manas [mind of self-attachment]. Even the wholesome mental factors are working under the severe constraints of a deeply embedded selfish attachment that is utterly bereft of the ability to take an unbiased perspective on anything. The only recourse I have is to consciously accept my past without a struggle, and from the position of leverage provided by this awareness, elevate, deepen, and broaden my inclination towards the world of the Buddha. This is the first religious step, the foundational form of faith.
Posted on: Sun, 20 Apr 2014 20:17:49 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015