Famous
People comment on The Buddha and His Teachings
By Ven. S. Dhammika
Published By The Buddha Dhamma Mandala Society
ISBN 981-00-0332-3
Fifth Edition 1991
INTRODUCTION
Anyone who is considering changing
their religion, or adopting a religion for the first time is about to
do something that may have a profound effect upon their life. It is not
the sort of thing that should be done in a rush, nor should it be done
under the influence of heightened emotions. If the truth is to be discovered
time must be taken, all the facts must be examined and questions must
he asked and different points of view considered. We try to do all this
before making most important decisions in our life, so why shouldn't we
do it before making the most important decision in our life - that
concerning our religious convictions?
To blindly and unquestionably accept
the opinions of others would, be foolish but to neglect their opinions
altogether would he foolish also. The insights and experiences of others,
especially the wise, may help us deepen our understanding and put us in
a better position to make the right choice. With the increased knowledge
of Buddhism in the last hundred years a large number of Western intellectuals,
including many Nobel Prize winners, have expressed a deep interest in
and admiration for this ancient religion. A small but growing number are
actually becoming Buddhists.
Some have been impressed by Buddhism's
clear, rational thought, others by its gentle tolerance. Some have been
surprised by how closely it resembles the discoveries of modern science
while others have been attracted by its idea of an ethical life without
the need to believe in a supreme god. The quotations collected in this
booklet are of interest for several reasons.
Firstly, they show the universal
appeal of Buddhism, its ability to speak to psychologist and poet, philosopher
and mathematician. Is it not telling that the words of a man who lived
so long ago could still he relevant and meaningful to a scientist like
Einstein, a poet like Eliot or a philosopher like Russell? Again, they
tell us as much about the people who wrote them as they do about Buddhism
itself.
We read what some of the great minds
of our time have to say about the Buddhist concept of detachment and love,
about the rational element in Buddhism and about the Buddha's place in
human history. They compare Buddhism with other religions, highlight its
emphasis on reason and tell us how it may influence modern psychology.
It is hoped that what is said in this booklet and who said it will motivate
the reader to look deeper into the teachings of the Buddha, and, if intellectual
satisfaction results, put its principles into practice.
As
the Buddha himself says:
When
you yourself know:
'These things are good; these things
are not blameable;
These things are praised by the
wise;
Undertaken and observed,
These things lead to your welfare
and happiness',
Then enter upon and abide in them.
