BE 2554 JULY 2010
Next/......
Sunday, July 25 - Start of a series of talk on Kamma in Abhidhamma Perspective by Bhikkhu Kheminda
Friday, July 23 - Start of New Basic Buddhism Class - 7.30-9.30 every Friday. Total of 10 lessons. Conducted by TY Lee.
Registration necessary.
Monday, July 26 - Asalha Puja Day - 7.00 p.m.. Click to see program
Wise people will go into examining the gem. Buddhism is like the unattractively wrapped gem because of traditions. Fact is Buddhism is more needed in modern society than before. The Dhamma is vital in present day conditions - just look at the suicide rate, mental hospitals and crimes around the world now. Buddhism, especially with its meditation techniques can treat such sickness. The wars and crimes are affecting the health of societies and Buddhism’s aid to these is the introduction of “metta” and the precepts for a peaceful and noble society. In fact, Buddhism is not at all old fashion. On the contrary it’s scientific and practical. Discussing on why very few youths found in Buddhism, Venerable said it is necessary to be more creative and change tendencies in line with their interests. Most youths look upon Buddhism as superstitious because of the lack of right understanding and this lies in the parents’ fault. Once they understand the Dhamma, they will follow the traditions naturally because they understand the reason for the various practices. Today’s topic coincide with an interview Abbot did last month with Brother Jeffrey Poh, editor of For You Buddhist Magazine. Read article.
Abbot enhanced the interesting talk further with his comments. He believed that the topic is very relevant to UBT. He felt that UBT is too conservative. He stressed there’s a need to learn to differentiate between traditions and Dhamma. It is necessary to contemplate and look beyond the surface, seek the hidden meaning in all practices. Superficially many practices may appear superstitious but contemplate and search deeply one will be able to see the Teaching. He gave the example of the 4-Faced Brahma and the Pita Image in the temple. The 4-Faced Brahma (and not 4-Faced Buddha as it has been wrongly referred to) actually represents the 4 Brahma Vihara - Metta, Karuna, Mudita and Upekkha (Loving-kindness, Compassion, Joy and Equanimity). The Pita (black image with hands covering the face and ears) is a teaching of closing up the senses - the trouble makers. Worshipping with right understanding is beneficial, otherwise its as good a nothing. Another example is amulets which UBT founder is very famous for. With the proper understanding of Dhamma, one would see the positive side of these amulets as a reminder of good behaviour and the benefits of meritorious deeds. This was perhaps the founder’s way of indirect teaching. Buddha also taught in indirect ways encompassing the local cultures and mental capability. It is therefore important for all dhamma practitioners to think in logical way beyond the superficial meaning.
UBT is currently in the process of doing a bi-monthly newsletter which will be distributed to all devotees either by post or via email. It will also be made available via our website. The email version will be in color. It is now still in it’s preparation stage and it is hoped to be ready for distribution end July.
Abbot enhanced the interesting talk further with his comments. He believed that the topic is very relevant to UBT. He felt that UBT is too conservative. He stressed there’s a need to learn to differentiate between traditions and Dhamma. It is necessary to contemplate and look beyond the surface, seek the hidden meaning in all practices. Superficially many practices may appear superstitious but contemplate and search deeply one will be able to see the Teaching. He gave the example of the 4-
UBT is currently in the process of doing a bi-