BUDDHISTS CONCEPT OF GOD AND GODS
It is interesting to note here the Buddha's attitude to the concept of godhead. He did not reject the belief in one god or many gods. He accepted that the condition of a god is that of a being who through moral development is reborn in a happy state. There are many levels of this state, loosely translated as 'heavens'. The beings who inhabit these realms are called 'devas' which literally means 'beings of light'. There is a hierarchy whereby those with very strong karmas are born in the highest realms while those with relatively weaker karmas are born in the lower planes. They live for immensely long periods of time, but they are not eternal, for they must eventually die and be reborn in other states when their store of good karma is expended. This happens because these gods are not perfect.
The gods are powerful and can help human beings in many ways and are entitled to our respect and devotion. However they are Incapable of effecting our salvation. They are capable of anger, revenge, pride and even jealousy Rather than relying on gods, each being must work to purify his or her own mind, through Intense self-effort. Not even a Buddha can give salvation. The Dharma was taught by the Buddha as a means for us to gain our salvation. One must study the Teachings, understand them and above all PRACTISE them sincerely to the best of our ability.
Belief in the gods, therefore is not condemned by the Buddha. They do exist, but while we may appeal to them for help in satisfying some of our desires, we must rely only on ourselves to effect salvation by purifying the mind. Those who believe in a creator God condemn non believers as sinners and discriminate against them although they lead a noble life. Buddhists however do not condemn the believers of God as sinners although buddhists do not agree with certain beliefs and practices that they maintain.
It follows from this that Buddhists can take a very tolerant view of other beliefs. First they are encouraged to recognize the teachings in other religions which conform to their own beliefs and secondly to recognize the gods in other religions and pay them due respect. It must be stressed here that this does not mean a blind acceptance of everything that is believed by everyone else. The Kalama Suttra referred to earlier insists 'when you know, of yourselves that these teachings are good etc'. This means we must be discerning and guard against accepting false views'. But Buddhists are never allowed to condemn others because at all times they must practise compassion and understanding and respect for others.
loading..
