What is the process for cleansing a very negative action? The 2019 Stack Overflow Developer Survey Results Are InWhat is the right time for seclusion?What are the ten courses of action (kamma)?Repeated blissful experiences in meditationExplaining non-attachment to the very attachedHow does kamma create a new set of aggregates for a rebirth; how do the mechanics of this process work?Confused about partner's practices. Need adviceIf you are/become very sensitive for sounds what could be the reason/cause?What does Buddhism say about dealing with negative people?Disguised negative emotions and the mindless brawl called an electionWhat are the characteristics of karmaless action?
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What is the process for cleansing a very negative action?
The 2019 Stack Overflow Developer Survey Results Are InWhat is the right time for seclusion?What are the ten courses of action (kamma)?Repeated blissful experiences in meditationExplaining non-attachment to the very attachedHow does kamma create a new set of aggregates for a rebirth; how do the mechanics of this process work?Confused about partner's practices. Need adviceIf you are/become very sensitive for sounds what could be the reason/cause?What does Buddhism say about dealing with negative people?Disguised negative emotions and the mindless brawl called an electionWhat are the characteristics of karmaless action?
Several years ago I did something that was totally legal, but very much against my upbringing, my world-view, and my ethics. It was a spur of the moment thing and I have regretted it massively ever since. However, it has haunted me mentally (and to an extent physically, due to tension) ever since.
I might add, this event didn't hurt anyone else.
What can I do from a Buddhist perspective, to completely cancel out this action and its resultant negative thought-stream once and for all?
personal-practice karma suffering
add a comment |
Several years ago I did something that was totally legal, but very much against my upbringing, my world-view, and my ethics. It was a spur of the moment thing and I have regretted it massively ever since. However, it has haunted me mentally (and to an extent physically, due to tension) ever since.
I might add, this event didn't hurt anyone else.
What can I do from a Buddhist perspective, to completely cancel out this action and its resultant negative thought-stream once and for all?
personal-practice karma suffering
add a comment |
Several years ago I did something that was totally legal, but very much against my upbringing, my world-view, and my ethics. It was a spur of the moment thing and I have regretted it massively ever since. However, it has haunted me mentally (and to an extent physically, due to tension) ever since.
I might add, this event didn't hurt anyone else.
What can I do from a Buddhist perspective, to completely cancel out this action and its resultant negative thought-stream once and for all?
personal-practice karma suffering
Several years ago I did something that was totally legal, but very much against my upbringing, my world-view, and my ethics. It was a spur of the moment thing and I have regretted it massively ever since. However, it has haunted me mentally (and to an extent physically, due to tension) ever since.
I might add, this event didn't hurt anyone else.
What can I do from a Buddhist perspective, to completely cancel out this action and its resultant negative thought-stream once and for all?
personal-practice karma suffering
personal-practice karma suffering
edited Apr 3 at 12:28
Peter Mortensen
1112
1112
asked Mar 31 at 21:23
EugeneEugene
161
161
add a comment |
add a comment |
4 Answers
4
active
oldest
votes
Nyom Eugene,
it's most needed to speak with an "admirable" friend", a teacher (one who actually knows), at least not only to know if it was a fault and which kind of. As your words here give much doubt in regard of whether it even wars or if "you world-view" has something to do with what is right or wrong, and since it is not a proper enviroment here, it's good when Nyom seeks for refuge at proper place.
All my person can offer are proper places here. Amends & confession or Uposatha/Sila ceremonies.
The pattern to come out of a fault is simple: recognize it clear as fault, be ashamed and express it, firm resolving not to ever engage into such again. That's it. Clean. Yet of course does not make deeds undone, but when effects ripe later, easy to bear and one can after cleaning move on, having been lifted out of the hole.
add a comment |
The Buddha taught every negative action arises from "the element of ignorance" rather than is performed by "the self". "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance". This is the path of cleansing of Noble Practitioners.
Refer to suttas SN 45.1, SN 12.17, Dhp 172 & 173 & MN 115.
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
add a comment |
I'm not a professional or anything like that. I don't have a bunch of garbage to text. Simply forgive yourself.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
add a comment |
According to SN 7.21 (quoted below), one could purify oneself of sins, not by water purification (as practised by Brahmins), but rather by dipping oneself in the lake of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) which has the shore of virtues (sila) - in order words, by practising the teachings, we can purify ourselves.
The Buddha said to Sangarava:
“Is it really true, brahmin, that you practice purification by water,
believing in purification by water; that you live committed to the
practice of immersing yourself in water at dawn and dusk?”
“Yes, Master Gotama.”
“But brahmin, for what reason do you practice purification by water?”
“It’s because, Master Gotama, whatever bad deeds I’ve done during the
day I wash off by bathing at dusk; and whatever bad deeds I’ve done
during the night, I wash off by bathing at dawn. That’s the reason why
I practice purification by water.”
“The teaching is a lake with shores of ethics, brahmin,
unclouded, praised by the fine to the good.
There the knowledge-masters go to bathe,
and cross to the far shore without getting wet.”
When he had spoken, Saṅgārava said to the Buddha:
“Excellent, Master Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may
Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge
for life.”
According to the Salt Crystal Sutta (quoted below), the notion of purification by practising the teachings is expounded further, through the explanation that one should be "developed in [contemplating] the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind, developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with the immeasurable". If you dive deep into what this phrase means, that's all you need to cleanse your negative past completely. You can find some useful commentary by Piya Tan here.
"Suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into a small amount of
water in a cup. What do you think? Would the water in the cup become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"Yes, lord. Why is that? There being only a small amount of water in
the cup, it would become salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit
to drink."
"Now suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into the River
Ganges. What do you think? Would the water in the River Ganges become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"No, lord. Why is that? There being a great mass of water in the River
Ganges, it would not become salty because of the salt crystal or unfit
to drink."
"In the same way, there is the case where a trifling evil deed done by
one individual [the first] takes him to hell; and there is the case
where the very same sort of trifling deed done by the other individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual takes him to
hell? There is the case where a certain individual is undeveloped in
the body, undeveloped in virtue, undeveloped in mind [i.e.,
painful feelings can invade the mind and stay there], undeveloped in
discernment: restricted, small-hearted, dwelling with suffering. A
trifling evil act done by this sort of individual takes him to hell.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual is
experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment? There is the case where a certain individual is
developed in the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind
[i.e., painful feelings cannot invade the mind and stay there],
developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with
the immeasurable. A trifling evil act done by this sort of individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
The teachings on the Brahmaviharas in particular are further elaborated in AN 10.219.
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
add a comment |
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4 Answers
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active
oldest
votes
4 Answers
4
active
oldest
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Nyom Eugene,
it's most needed to speak with an "admirable" friend", a teacher (one who actually knows), at least not only to know if it was a fault and which kind of. As your words here give much doubt in regard of whether it even wars or if "you world-view" has something to do with what is right or wrong, and since it is not a proper enviroment here, it's good when Nyom seeks for refuge at proper place.
All my person can offer are proper places here. Amends & confession or Uposatha/Sila ceremonies.
The pattern to come out of a fault is simple: recognize it clear as fault, be ashamed and express it, firm resolving not to ever engage into such again. That's it. Clean. Yet of course does not make deeds undone, but when effects ripe later, easy to bear and one can after cleaning move on, having been lifted out of the hole.
add a comment |
Nyom Eugene,
it's most needed to speak with an "admirable" friend", a teacher (one who actually knows), at least not only to know if it was a fault and which kind of. As your words here give much doubt in regard of whether it even wars or if "you world-view" has something to do with what is right or wrong, and since it is not a proper enviroment here, it's good when Nyom seeks for refuge at proper place.
All my person can offer are proper places here. Amends & confession or Uposatha/Sila ceremonies.
The pattern to come out of a fault is simple: recognize it clear as fault, be ashamed and express it, firm resolving not to ever engage into such again. That's it. Clean. Yet of course does not make deeds undone, but when effects ripe later, easy to bear and one can after cleaning move on, having been lifted out of the hole.
add a comment |
Nyom Eugene,
it's most needed to speak with an "admirable" friend", a teacher (one who actually knows), at least not only to know if it was a fault and which kind of. As your words here give much doubt in regard of whether it even wars or if "you world-view" has something to do with what is right or wrong, and since it is not a proper enviroment here, it's good when Nyom seeks for refuge at proper place.
All my person can offer are proper places here. Amends & confession or Uposatha/Sila ceremonies.
The pattern to come out of a fault is simple: recognize it clear as fault, be ashamed and express it, firm resolving not to ever engage into such again. That's it. Clean. Yet of course does not make deeds undone, but when effects ripe later, easy to bear and one can after cleaning move on, having been lifted out of the hole.
Nyom Eugene,
it's most needed to speak with an "admirable" friend", a teacher (one who actually knows), at least not only to know if it was a fault and which kind of. As your words here give much doubt in regard of whether it even wars or if "you world-view" has something to do with what is right or wrong, and since it is not a proper enviroment here, it's good when Nyom seeks for refuge at proper place.
All my person can offer are proper places here. Amends & confession or Uposatha/Sila ceremonies.
The pattern to come out of a fault is simple: recognize it clear as fault, be ashamed and express it, firm resolving not to ever engage into such again. That's it. Clean. Yet of course does not make deeds undone, but when effects ripe later, easy to bear and one can after cleaning move on, having been lifted out of the hole.
edited Apr 1 at 0:05
answered Mar 31 at 23:36
Samana JohannSamana Johann
112
112
add a comment |
add a comment |
The Buddha taught every negative action arises from "the element of ignorance" rather than is performed by "the self". "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance". This is the path of cleansing of Noble Practitioners.
Refer to suttas SN 45.1, SN 12.17, Dhp 172 & 173 & MN 115.
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
add a comment |
The Buddha taught every negative action arises from "the element of ignorance" rather than is performed by "the self". "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance". This is the path of cleansing of Noble Practitioners.
Refer to suttas SN 45.1, SN 12.17, Dhp 172 & 173 & MN 115.
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
add a comment |
The Buddha taught every negative action arises from "the element of ignorance" rather than is performed by "the self". "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance". This is the path of cleansing of Noble Practitioners.
Refer to suttas SN 45.1, SN 12.17, Dhp 172 & 173 & MN 115.
The Buddha taught every negative action arises from "the element of ignorance" rather than is performed by "the self". "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance". This is the path of cleansing of Noble Practitioners.
Refer to suttas SN 45.1, SN 12.17, Dhp 172 & 173 & MN 115.
edited Apr 1 at 2:52
answered Apr 1 at 2:46
DhammadhatuDhammadhatu
25.8k11044
25.8k11044
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
add a comment |
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
Excellent readings @dhammadhatu. Thank you for referring me to them. And the words "You" did not perform the negative action. What performed the negative action was "the element of ignorance" is an important truth for me to remember. I think I need to get that tattoo'd up my arm to make sure I never forget it.
– Eugene
Apr 1 at 14:07
add a comment |
I'm not a professional or anything like that. I don't have a bunch of garbage to text. Simply forgive yourself.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
add a comment |
I'm not a professional or anything like that. I don't have a bunch of garbage to text. Simply forgive yourself.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
add a comment |
I'm not a professional or anything like that. I don't have a bunch of garbage to text. Simply forgive yourself.
I'm not a professional or anything like that. I don't have a bunch of garbage to text. Simply forgive yourself.
answered Apr 1 at 4:04
user15082user15082
11
11
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
We're looking for long answers that provide some explanation and context. Don't just give a one-line answer; explain why your answer is right, ideally with citations. Answers that don't include explanations may be removed.
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
add a comment |
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
3
3
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Hello and welcome to Buddhism SE. For information on how to write a good answer, please see "How do I write a good answer?". Answer needs to be revised and provided with further context and explanation.
– Lanka♦
Apr 1 at 17:06
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
Don't really like what you're implying with "I don't have a bunch of garbage to text." It comes off like you're looking down on people who give long answers, which isn't cool.
– Jess STJ
Apr 3 at 2:41
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
My bad didn't mean to hurt your feelings. That's not what I was implying. I read the question and the answer to me was simple. But I am not that person and it may not be simple for him. I was implying that I don't need to type a ton of stuff for such a simple answer. Apparently there are rules for that. I don't like rules made by man. They are useless.
– user15082
Apr 3 at 3:20
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
I am curious, @user15082. When you say that you "don't like rules made by man", does that includes the teachings of the Buddha? If so, curious that you would be here in this exchange. If not, I did not understand your answer. (Note: I am not 'baiting' you, I am genuinely trying to find out what you meant.) Best, Jim
– GVCOJims
Apr 5 at 23:52
add a comment |
According to SN 7.21 (quoted below), one could purify oneself of sins, not by water purification (as practised by Brahmins), but rather by dipping oneself in the lake of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) which has the shore of virtues (sila) - in order words, by practising the teachings, we can purify ourselves.
The Buddha said to Sangarava:
“Is it really true, brahmin, that you practice purification by water,
believing in purification by water; that you live committed to the
practice of immersing yourself in water at dawn and dusk?”
“Yes, Master Gotama.”
“But brahmin, for what reason do you practice purification by water?”
“It’s because, Master Gotama, whatever bad deeds I’ve done during the
day I wash off by bathing at dusk; and whatever bad deeds I’ve done
during the night, I wash off by bathing at dawn. That’s the reason why
I practice purification by water.”
“The teaching is a lake with shores of ethics, brahmin,
unclouded, praised by the fine to the good.
There the knowledge-masters go to bathe,
and cross to the far shore without getting wet.”
When he had spoken, Saṅgārava said to the Buddha:
“Excellent, Master Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may
Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge
for life.”
According to the Salt Crystal Sutta (quoted below), the notion of purification by practising the teachings is expounded further, through the explanation that one should be "developed in [contemplating] the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind, developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with the immeasurable". If you dive deep into what this phrase means, that's all you need to cleanse your negative past completely. You can find some useful commentary by Piya Tan here.
"Suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into a small amount of
water in a cup. What do you think? Would the water in the cup become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"Yes, lord. Why is that? There being only a small amount of water in
the cup, it would become salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit
to drink."
"Now suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into the River
Ganges. What do you think? Would the water in the River Ganges become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"No, lord. Why is that? There being a great mass of water in the River
Ganges, it would not become salty because of the salt crystal or unfit
to drink."
"In the same way, there is the case where a trifling evil deed done by
one individual [the first] takes him to hell; and there is the case
where the very same sort of trifling deed done by the other individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual takes him to
hell? There is the case where a certain individual is undeveloped in
the body, undeveloped in virtue, undeveloped in mind [i.e.,
painful feelings can invade the mind and stay there], undeveloped in
discernment: restricted, small-hearted, dwelling with suffering. A
trifling evil act done by this sort of individual takes him to hell.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual is
experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment? There is the case where a certain individual is
developed in the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind
[i.e., painful feelings cannot invade the mind and stay there],
developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with
the immeasurable. A trifling evil act done by this sort of individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
The teachings on the Brahmaviharas in particular are further elaborated in AN 10.219.
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
add a comment |
According to SN 7.21 (quoted below), one could purify oneself of sins, not by water purification (as practised by Brahmins), but rather by dipping oneself in the lake of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) which has the shore of virtues (sila) - in order words, by practising the teachings, we can purify ourselves.
The Buddha said to Sangarava:
“Is it really true, brahmin, that you practice purification by water,
believing in purification by water; that you live committed to the
practice of immersing yourself in water at dawn and dusk?”
“Yes, Master Gotama.”
“But brahmin, for what reason do you practice purification by water?”
“It’s because, Master Gotama, whatever bad deeds I’ve done during the
day I wash off by bathing at dusk; and whatever bad deeds I’ve done
during the night, I wash off by bathing at dawn. That’s the reason why
I practice purification by water.”
“The teaching is a lake with shores of ethics, brahmin,
unclouded, praised by the fine to the good.
There the knowledge-masters go to bathe,
and cross to the far shore without getting wet.”
When he had spoken, Saṅgārava said to the Buddha:
“Excellent, Master Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may
Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge
for life.”
According to the Salt Crystal Sutta (quoted below), the notion of purification by practising the teachings is expounded further, through the explanation that one should be "developed in [contemplating] the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind, developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with the immeasurable". If you dive deep into what this phrase means, that's all you need to cleanse your negative past completely. You can find some useful commentary by Piya Tan here.
"Suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into a small amount of
water in a cup. What do you think? Would the water in the cup become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"Yes, lord. Why is that? There being only a small amount of water in
the cup, it would become salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit
to drink."
"Now suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into the River
Ganges. What do you think? Would the water in the River Ganges become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"No, lord. Why is that? There being a great mass of water in the River
Ganges, it would not become salty because of the salt crystal or unfit
to drink."
"In the same way, there is the case where a trifling evil deed done by
one individual [the first] takes him to hell; and there is the case
where the very same sort of trifling deed done by the other individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual takes him to
hell? There is the case where a certain individual is undeveloped in
the body, undeveloped in virtue, undeveloped in mind [i.e.,
painful feelings can invade the mind and stay there], undeveloped in
discernment: restricted, small-hearted, dwelling with suffering. A
trifling evil act done by this sort of individual takes him to hell.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual is
experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment? There is the case where a certain individual is
developed in the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind
[i.e., painful feelings cannot invade the mind and stay there],
developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with
the immeasurable. A trifling evil act done by this sort of individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
The teachings on the Brahmaviharas in particular are further elaborated in AN 10.219.
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
add a comment |
According to SN 7.21 (quoted below), one could purify oneself of sins, not by water purification (as practised by Brahmins), but rather by dipping oneself in the lake of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) which has the shore of virtues (sila) - in order words, by practising the teachings, we can purify ourselves.
The Buddha said to Sangarava:
“Is it really true, brahmin, that you practice purification by water,
believing in purification by water; that you live committed to the
practice of immersing yourself in water at dawn and dusk?”
“Yes, Master Gotama.”
“But brahmin, for what reason do you practice purification by water?”
“It’s because, Master Gotama, whatever bad deeds I’ve done during the
day I wash off by bathing at dusk; and whatever bad deeds I’ve done
during the night, I wash off by bathing at dawn. That’s the reason why
I practice purification by water.”
“The teaching is a lake with shores of ethics, brahmin,
unclouded, praised by the fine to the good.
There the knowledge-masters go to bathe,
and cross to the far shore without getting wet.”
When he had spoken, Saṅgārava said to the Buddha:
“Excellent, Master Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may
Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge
for life.”
According to the Salt Crystal Sutta (quoted below), the notion of purification by practising the teachings is expounded further, through the explanation that one should be "developed in [contemplating] the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind, developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with the immeasurable". If you dive deep into what this phrase means, that's all you need to cleanse your negative past completely. You can find some useful commentary by Piya Tan here.
"Suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into a small amount of
water in a cup. What do you think? Would the water in the cup become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"Yes, lord. Why is that? There being only a small amount of water in
the cup, it would become salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit
to drink."
"Now suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into the River
Ganges. What do you think? Would the water in the River Ganges become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"No, lord. Why is that? There being a great mass of water in the River
Ganges, it would not become salty because of the salt crystal or unfit
to drink."
"In the same way, there is the case where a trifling evil deed done by
one individual [the first] takes him to hell; and there is the case
where the very same sort of trifling deed done by the other individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual takes him to
hell? There is the case where a certain individual is undeveloped in
the body, undeveloped in virtue, undeveloped in mind [i.e.,
painful feelings can invade the mind and stay there], undeveloped in
discernment: restricted, small-hearted, dwelling with suffering. A
trifling evil act done by this sort of individual takes him to hell.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual is
experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment? There is the case where a certain individual is
developed in the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind
[i.e., painful feelings cannot invade the mind and stay there],
developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with
the immeasurable. A trifling evil act done by this sort of individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
The teachings on the Brahmaviharas in particular are further elaborated in AN 10.219.
According to SN 7.21 (quoted below), one could purify oneself of sins, not by water purification (as practised by Brahmins), but rather by dipping oneself in the lake of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) which has the shore of virtues (sila) - in order words, by practising the teachings, we can purify ourselves.
The Buddha said to Sangarava:
“Is it really true, brahmin, that you practice purification by water,
believing in purification by water; that you live committed to the
practice of immersing yourself in water at dawn and dusk?”
“Yes, Master Gotama.”
“But brahmin, for what reason do you practice purification by water?”
“It’s because, Master Gotama, whatever bad deeds I’ve done during the
day I wash off by bathing at dusk; and whatever bad deeds I’ve done
during the night, I wash off by bathing at dawn. That’s the reason why
I practice purification by water.”
“The teaching is a lake with shores of ethics, brahmin,
unclouded, praised by the fine to the good.
There the knowledge-masters go to bathe,
and cross to the far shore without getting wet.”
When he had spoken, Saṅgārava said to the Buddha:
“Excellent, Master Gotama! Excellent! … From this day forth, may
Master Gotama remember me as a lay follower who has gone for refuge
for life.”
According to the Salt Crystal Sutta (quoted below), the notion of purification by practising the teachings is expounded further, through the explanation that one should be "developed in [contemplating] the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind, developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with the immeasurable". If you dive deep into what this phrase means, that's all you need to cleanse your negative past completely. You can find some useful commentary by Piya Tan here.
"Suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into a small amount of
water in a cup. What do you think? Would the water in the cup become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"Yes, lord. Why is that? There being only a small amount of water in
the cup, it would become salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit
to drink."
"Now suppose that a man were to drop a salt crystal into the River
Ganges. What do you think? Would the water in the River Ganges become
salty because of the salt crystal, and unfit to drink?"
"No, lord. Why is that? There being a great mass of water in the River
Ganges, it would not become salty because of the salt crystal or unfit
to drink."
"In the same way, there is the case where a trifling evil deed done by
one individual [the first] takes him to hell; and there is the case
where the very same sort of trifling deed done by the other individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual takes him to
hell? There is the case where a certain individual is undeveloped in
the body, undeveloped in virtue, undeveloped in mind [i.e.,
painful feelings can invade the mind and stay there], undeveloped in
discernment: restricted, small-hearted, dwelling with suffering. A
trifling evil act done by this sort of individual takes him to hell.
'Now, a trifling evil act done by what sort of individual is
experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment? There is the case where a certain individual is
developed in the body, developed in virtue, developed in mind
[i.e., painful feelings cannot invade the mind and stay there],
developed in discernment: unrestricted, large-hearted, dwelling with
the immeasurable. A trifling evil act done by this sort of individual
is experienced in the here & now, and for the most part barely appears
for a moment.
The teachings on the Brahmaviharas in particular are further elaborated in AN 10.219.
edited Apr 3 at 16:05
answered Apr 3 at 14:58
ruben2020ruben2020
16k31243
16k31243
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
add a comment |
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
An excellent and very appropriate answer for me personally @ruben2020. I do not always do my best to focus on the dharma on a daily basis. If I read correctly what the sutras you have quoted say then I can dilute my 'evil deed' to the point of non-existence (like the salt in the Ganges) by expanding my immersion in the teachings. Is the right?
– Eugene
Apr 4 at 17:31
add a comment |
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