These different proponents try to support their theories with different reasons, but in the end they are quite vague. Another group says it was more than 2800 years. ![]() This accords with the popular Theravadin view, but according to some Tibetan scholars, Buddha appeared in the world more than 3000 years ago. I would now like to explain these points in greater detail from an evolutionary or historical point of view.Īccording to the viewpoint of the Kashmiri pandit Shakya Shri Bhadra, who came to Tibet, Lord Buddha lived in India 2500 years ago. This is the main feature of the tantric vehicle. By using the body's physical elements, we can expedite the process of realization, eliminating ignorance and its imprints. The highest vehicle is known as the tantric vehicle which comprises not only techniques for heightening your own realization of emptiness or mind of enlightenment, but also certain technique for penetrating the vital points of the body. When this view of selflessness gives rise to a profound understanding, we will be able to eliminate not only ignorance and the disturbing emotions derived from it, but also the imprints left by them. In this system, the view of selflessness is explained only in terms of the person not of phenomena, whereas in the great vehicle system, the view of selflessness is not confined to the person alone, but encompasses all phenomena. And the system containing methods for obtaining freedom from this cycle existence is referred to as the Hearer's or Solitary Realizer's vehicle. Methods for achieving such a state of liberation enable us to overcome ignorance, which is the root cause of our spinning in the cycle existence. ![]() Yet, these systems do not provide any method for achieving liberation, that is, freedom from suffering and the cycle of existence. Through such techniques one is able to attain the highest form of life possible within cyclic existence.įrom a Buddhist point of view, because these various systems bring great benefit to many living beings, they are all worthy of respect. The Buddha also spoke of another category of vehicle, the Brahma vehicle, which comprises techniques of meditation by which a person withdraws his or her attention from external objects and draws the mind within, trying to cultivate single-pointed concentration. By performing good deeds and refraining from negative actions we can lead righteous lives and be able to maintain a favorable rebirth in the future. Such a system highlights the importance of maintaining good behavior. The vehicles of human and divine beings here refer to the system which outlines the methods and techniques for bringing about a betterment within this life or attaining a favorable rebirth in the future as a human or god. These are referred to as vehicles, the vehicles of divine beings and human beings and the low vehicle (Hinayana), the great vehicle (Mahayana), and the vehicle of Tantra. In Buddhist writings many different systems of belief and tradition are explained. People of other religious traditions, who have an interest in Buddhism and who find such features of Buddhist practice as the meditative techniques for developing love and compassion attractive, could also benefit by incorporating them into their own tradition and practice. Trying to change yourself for the better is the point of view a Buddhist practitioner should adopt. Just as you might take your brain to a laboratory to examine your mental functions more deeply, so that you can reshape them in a more positive way. And in my own daily life, I find it very helpful to keep a check on my own motivation from morning until night.ĭuring these teachings, what I will be describing is essentially a kind of instrument with which to improve yourself. Although I haven't changed or improved myself much, I have a continuing wish to do so. ![]() If we live each day with mindfulness and alertness, we can keep a check on our motivation and behavior. We also constantly need to examine ourselves in day to day life, which is very helpful to give ourselves guidelines. Therefore, it is very important to examine our mental attitude. ![]() In addition, our own lives continually move on, so if something goes wrong, we cannot repeat it. Whether we behave well or not, time never waits for us, but goes on forever changing. Because quite a number of people have already received initiations, teachings and so on, they might find it helpful to have an explanation of the complete framework. In giving an overview of the Buddhadharma, as practiced by the Tibetans, I generally point out that the Buddhism we practice is an integrated form comprising teachings of the low, bodhisattva and tantric vehicles, including such paths as the Great Seal.
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