Vedanta - Interlocking Many Faiths
THE DALAI LAMA
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In the 20th century , great changes took place as a result of experiments and developments in a broad range of human activities. These experiences have made us appreciate the importance of freedom, and the significant contributions of individual enterprise.So, in the 21st century , there have been positive developments in our approach to problems. This is a source of hope.Our different religious traditions have an important role to play, and they should engage in a common effort to contribute to human welfare.
The 25,000-year-old Buddha Dharma has a special role to play. Buddhism uniquely propounds the concept of interdependence, which accords closely with the fundamental notions of modern science.
When I was young and studying in Tibet, like every Tibetan I regarded India as the Aryabhumi, the Holy Land. Like every devout Buddhist, I associated Bodh Gaya with the highest achievements of the spiritual path. It was a place I longed to visit and, fortunately , an opportunity arose in 1956 with an invitation from the Mahabodhi Society to attend the Buddha Jayanti. When I finally stood in the presence of the seat of enlightenment, I was profoundly moved.
Reflecting on Shakyamuni Buddha's great accomplishment here, I also remembered his overwhelming kindness to all sentient beings. Not only did he achieve perfection himself, but he also revealed that each of us has such potential. I believed then, as I do now, that the teachings of the Buddha could lead not only to inner peace in the lives of individuals, but also to peace between nations.
The 25,000-year-old Buddha Dharma has a special role to play. Buddhism uniquely propounds the concept of interdependence, which accords closely with the fundamental notions of modern science.
When I was young and studying in Tibet, like every Tibetan I regarded India as the Aryabhumi, the Holy Land. Like every devout Buddhist, I associated Bodh Gaya with the highest achievements of the spiritual path. It was a place I longed to visit and, fortunately , an opportunity arose in 1956 with an invitation from the Mahabodhi Society to attend the Buddha Jayanti. When I finally stood in the presence of the seat of enlightenment, I was profoundly moved.
Reflecting on Shakyamuni Buddha's great accomplishment here, I also remembered his overwhelming kindness to all sentient beings. Not only did he achieve perfection himself, but he also revealed that each of us has such potential. I believed then, as I do now, that the teachings of the Buddha could lead not only to inner peace in the lives of individuals, but also to peace between nations.
