Del,
The human ability for rationalization is indeed quite amazing. I don't think this is just a Christian trait - it seems to be present in all religions, as well as atheists, too.
I had once considered the Buddhist philosophy, but I am turned off by group mentality and ritual.
I am also turned off by group mentality. I think there are a lot of ways of exploring Buddhism that don't require group mentality. Have you read the book If you Meet the Buddha on the Road, Kill Him? Many Buddhist teachings try to bring forth your own innate wisdom, which is sometimes referred to as your Buddha nature. "Buddha" means awakened one, so the purpose of these teachings are for you to awaken. Wake up! Don't you agree that it is impossible to awaken to your own inner wisdom if you're just part of the herd? There's no images of sheep-like followers of a shepherd Buddha in Buddhism, at least none that I'm aware of. In fact, one of the teaching stories is about a monk who decided to have a big party while the abbot was out of town during a retreat. He took the temple's only cow to the village and sold it, and used the money to buy drinks and other party supplies. They had a great time, and everyone was asleep on their cushions when the abbot returned the next morning. Needless to say, the abbot wasn't too happy to see the cow missing as well as everyone sleeping on the job. Everyone looked at the monk who instigated the party, so the abbot asked him "Where is the cow?" The monk got on his hands and knees, turned his head towards the abbot, and mooed. At this point the abbot just turned and walked out, and everyone resumed the retreat.
Craig |
