Unfair to say Thai Buddhism isn’t ‘true’
In recent days some interesting and provocative letters to the editor have been published about Buddhism.
Ye Olde Pendant was right in exposing the arrogance in JC Wilcox’s letter, which distinguished between “true Buddhism” and Thai Buddhism.
Ewan meanwhile opined that Buddhism is a philosophy. I can’t agree, because philosophy involves systematic critical thinking about the general nature of the world, our beliefs and our conduct in life. I believe a better description of Buddhism is a “doctrine”.
Wilcox stresses self-awareness and general awareness, concentration and meditation as the most important of the Buddha’s teachings in creating a better world. He states that only “true Buddhism” can teach these, so evidently he believes these elements are lacking in Thai Buddhism. I have to disagree. The quintessence of every form of Buddhism is the four gems – suffering, the cause of the suffering (attachments, desires), avoidance of suffering by conquering egoist desires, and conquering desires by following the eightfold path. Thai Buddhism teaches these tenets, so it cannot be set apart from “true Buddhism”.
The four aspects of thinking mentioned by Wilcox are found among the eightfold path, which Thai Buddhism also teaches, particularly to every Thai male spending time as a novice.
Not just Buddhists but all human beings have awareness of themselves and their surroundings and the ability to concentrate on their studies and meditate on their problems. The way to create a better world, implicit in the Buddha’s teachings, is to teach people to be happy with what they have and not be envious or jealous of others. Buddhist teachings are a boon to the world, but the belief in reincarnation should not lead to a lethargic life and kill ambition.
Last but not least, love, empathy and affection are essential in life. Without attachments – to partners, children, parents and even pets – it’s not possible to create a better world.
Egon
