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**outfinofulpv** · 03-06-2012, 04:42 PM

There are a number of factors that show the end result of following Buddhism would be the realisation of its limitations and therefore its cessation.

Hi Joshu,
I can see where you are coming from. There is the simile of the raft, ie. once you cross the river you no longer need it. This is very clearly stated in Buddhism and marks a transition (perhaps gradual) from a beginner's complete reliance on scripture, to a follower who has direct experience of the actual contents of those scriptures.

Since everyone has different needs at different times, the complete spectrum of approaches has relevance.

I think though it's a mistake to discard teachings up front - as some seem to propose (not saying you do btw) in favour of an assumed 'direct approach'. Like throwing a newbie in at the deep end and saying 'just swim'. May work for a few but many more will drown.

The basic sutta teachings (if used practically rather than dogmatically) are a foundation and roadmap for all that follows. They put our journey into context until we no longer need anything to be put into context.

03-06-2012, 04:42 PM	#29
outfinofulpv Join Date Oct 2005 Posts 398 Senior Member	There are a number of factors that show the end result of following Buddhism would be the realisation of its limitations and therefore its cessation. Hi Joshu, I can see where you are coming from. There is the simile of the raft, ie. once you cross the river you no longer need it. This is very clearly stated in Buddhism and marks a transition (perhaps gradual) from a beginner's complete reliance on scripture, to a follower who has direct experience of the actual contents of those scriptures. Since everyone has different needs at different times, the complete spectrum of approaches has relevance. I think though it's a mistake to discard teachings up front - as some seem to propose (not saying you do btw) in favour of an assumed 'direct approach'. Like throwing a newbie in at the deep end and saying 'just swim'. May work for a few but many more will drown. The basic sutta teachings (if used practically rather than dogmatically) are a foundation and roadmap for all that follows. They put our journey into context until we no longer need anything to be put into context.
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