Originally posted by Isis:Actually i think it is okay to quote from the sutra as long as the example is appropriate to the reader. A simple verse from the sutra can also enlightened somebody by chance or simply clarify somebody's doubts. Just as what happen to Hui neng who listen to the Diamond sutra and was suddenly enlightened. Though one must have very good roots in order to attain sudden enlightenment.
I have to agreed with both of you. For him who does not know his mind, there is no use learning Buddhism :)
Quote without understanding is not much difference from a parrot parroting what is being taught. Sutra is there as a reference to invoke one's thinking but it must be treated with care where these reference are applied in life context. Contrary to what Kirby K had mentioned, Shakyamuni Buddha had consulted people (hermetic) before he is awaken to the truth. (At the point of history there is no sutras so as to speak). It is difficult for modern people to just sit down and ponder all days long, Buddhism is Reason, it must be practical to solve all life problems even it includes expedient means.
Originally posted by macTea:Quote without understanding is not much difference from a parrot parroting what is being taught. Sutra is there as a reference to invoke one's thinking but it must be treated with care where these reference are applied in life context. Contrary to what Kirby K had mentioned, Shakyamuni Buddha had consulted people (hermetic) before he is awaken to the truth. (At the point of history there is no sutras so as to speak). It is difficult for modern people to just sit down and ponder all days long, Buddhism is Reason, it must be practical to solve all life problems even it includes expedient means.
"I have to agreed with both of you. For him who does not know his mind, there is no use learning Buddhism"
>> I have a different view of this statement, just to opinioned my thoughts. Learning Buddhism should not have a pre-requisite to it, it is definitely not an intellectual/academic stuff that only a privilege to the erudite type. Not all minds of people who come to Buddhism comes with a "prepared mind" or know his mind. It is here, in Buddhism, where we teach them the real tools for solving their problem by readjusting their raw minds to see the world in clarity. :)
interesting topic.