Buddhism – Religion or Philosophy

I am asked this question almost as much as I am asked about a Buddhist view or belief regarding death and life. This writing will certainly not put the issue to rest, I am not even sure it is possible for anyone to completely answer it. I would like to, however, offer some points I feel are important regarding the practice and application of Buddhism to our lives. If we look at a set of…

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Karma

The following article was taken from a writing that Ryuei McCormick Shonin did in November 2007. This article was prepared with his permission. ——————– The law of cause and effect on it’s most basic level is not the monopoly of Buddhism. “As you sow, so shall you reap” is pretty much a given in just about any religious tradition. You are responsible for your actions and your actions will have consequences both here and in…

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Tokudo At Myosho-ji 19 March 2011

Today we held the Tokudo Service for Shami Jisho. This is the initial taking of vows by a novice as they begin the training to become a priest. The following is the text of my Dharma Talk given at the beginning of the Tokudo Service. ——–Begin Dharma Talk Text————- Good afternoon, thank you all for coming to the temple today. Thank you to the visiting Nichiren Shu priests, Ryuoh Shonin from Boston and Myokei Shonin…

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Non-Violence in Buddhism

“We should treasure all life from the greatest sage on high to the lowliest mosquito or gnat. Therefore, depriving any being of life is the greatest of crimes. When the Tathagata appeared in the world he made compassion for all life the basis [of his teaching]. In order to show his compassion for all life he made non-killing and providing sustenance the first precept.”

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