[VladFal]

As a novice and rebel, I find it difficult to grasp only one of the different schools of thought. I understand that Buddhism is based on the teachings of Gautama Buddha, Are the different traditions not unlike the variations of Christianity and adapted to the various cultures and environments in it's long history? From what I've observed so far, Buddhism does not seem to have been as obscured as Christianity (for example: Catholism vs.Lutheranism vs. Mormonism). Don't all the Buddhist traditions observe the same basic truths? I understand that Zen is a hybrid of Taoism and Buddhism. I have always felt that "Truth is One and Paths are Many". But, I don't want to miss out on anything, either.

[BritneySpearsFun@@@]

Hi Dawn, in my opinion some of the Buddhist traditions are quite different to each other, For example having practised Tibetan Buddhism first and then Theravada Forest Tradition later, I see a lot of difference between the two.

I think its a good idea to investigate carefully first, because I think on reflection, if I'd done that to begin with myself, I would have probably made different choices.

There's quite a lot of useful information at this site:

http://buddhanet.net/

and you also might like to browse our study links section

Time for me to go to bed now! Goodnight.....

[JennaJJxoxoxo]

IMO - I agree with Aloka that you should investigate the different schools to see which is the best fit for you.

I am not a big fan of mixing traditions however. From my expeareance once you have made a choice it is best to maintain the tennets of that school.

Of course you should not feel stuch though. If over time you realise that it is not as good a fit as you first thought , there is no reason you cant change.

All the Best

[Efonukmp]

Hi Dawn,

Aloka and Karma Yeshe are giving a good advice. Traditions offer different means and tools toward awakening. Traditions differ and their teachers too.

To explore and to realize what best fits with you is a good idea.

I explored Zen and at the end it did not fit well at all with me so I leave it.

I have found the in the teachings of Buddha the inspiration and the fundamental knowledge so to practice his doctrine even when from time to time the teachings of the Thai Forest Tradition can gave a very fresh and good approach to this same teachings.

Being into the teachings of Buddha are bringing content, peace and joy.

[gambleingsites]

Thank you Aloka for the link! I thought I was overwhelmed before...it is now displayed proudly on my desktop.

Karma Yeshe...initially, I was introduced to Tibetan Buddhism. As, I suspect, is the case with the majority of Westerners. With technology today, I find it very accessible.

Kaarine, I will also take your advice and keep an open mind, and explore.

Thanks to all of you for your patience and wisdom.

[SoftrermaBioniaSat]

Dawn, I don't think you need to feel required to identify with or limit yourself to any single school or tradition. You can if you find one that you clearly think is best for you, of course, but joining a school or tradition is by no means required to be a Buddhist or to incorporate the Buddha's teachings into your life.

I no longer consider myself to be a "part of" any tradition. I collected most of the Pali Canon and other books on Buddhist history and philosophy and practice mostly in isolation from other Buddhists. Maybe in some people's opinion, I might not be a "good" Buddhist, tho!

[Qrhzbadu]

Just to clarify my post #2, I don't practice offline with two different traditions.
I left Tibetan Buddhism, and then after further investigation decided that the Western branch of the Theravada Thai Forest Tradition was the best place for me because of the very direct teachings and the lack of rituals and cultural superstitions.

Its worthwhile checking to see what's available locally in terms of meditation classes and offline groups, because sharing practice and feedback with others can be helpful when starting out on the path.

[Leczyslaw]

Greetings,

Even if you utilise teachings from various traditions, it is good to identify where they come from. This will help avoid confusion (in the event that they appear incompatible) and will help you decide in time which direction(s) make most sense to you.

Metta,
Retro.

[Wgnhqhlg]

Hello Dawn,

I tend to agree with FBM that you dont need to limit yourself to a particular tradtion. I would go a little bit further and say that you dont even need to limit yourself to Buddism as a source of Knowledge and wisdom.

As long as you adhere to the correct method of gaining knowledge then you will be able to differeniate between the good apple and the rotten one.

http://philosophy.hku.hk/think/

http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/epistemology/

Regards,
Bundokji

[Deseassaugs]

Hi Dawn,

Nothing is necessary. But I think it is good to walk through one door as opposed to peeking in many doors. I use this analogy here as a way to demonstrate the tenancy that a lot of Dharma practitioners have...including me!...it is just part of our habit of not being satisfied and wanting more and more. But when we find a method or a tradition that is suitable to our own conditions and capacities, I think it is best to focus on that otherwise we can just dance around a lot.

But do take your time, and you will find a good fit for yourself. You will know because beyond all the study and reading we may do; all of the teachings we may listen to; when something "click's" inside and you can notice a change in your day to day (or even moment to moment) experience, then it is proof that it is having a good effect.

I don't entirely disagree with previous comments, but I can say that in my own experience I've found that traditions may differ in the way they present the teachings, and even in the same traditions there may be different systems of thought. Though they essentially approach the same thing, I think it could be at the very least confusing and in the worst case can seem to be contradictory. Just my thoughts...

In my own experience, I did not search around too much to find my own fit. Direct experience resulting from practice told me all I needed to know.

Terma

[Honealals]

Thank you all for your guidance. I have always gleaned wisdom from various sources, philosphers, scientists, even personal experience. If I am not mistaken Buddha encouraged his pupils to ask questions and continue learning. Buddhism is appealing to my curious mind. I respect those who have the knowledge and ability to focus on only one school of thought, however I find that the beauty of an open mind and heart allows me to expand my personal spiritual growth. It is my wish that I do not appear foolish or ignorant, and that I may continue to ask questions.

[Zvmwissq]

I think that one thing that so many people miss, especially those who have been studying and practicing Buddhism for a long time is that it all comes down to the very essence of the Buddha's teaching, which is the freedom form suffering. I think just about all of us, when we first delve into Buddhism have a look at the "Four Noble Truths", this being the basis of the Buddha's teachings. As many move along and study more, it can be lost in the mix so-to-speak. I think it is good to remind ourselves that this is the basis for everything. No matter if one practices Theravada, Mahayana, or even Dzogchen, it can all be directly related back to the four noble truths.

(As an aside, I think this view is helpful for reducing sectarian views between the various vehicles, traditions, etc. Sometimes in our attempts to free ourselves from samsara, we only sink deeper...)

Speaking strictly from my own experience (and mostly talking to myself here...lol), I think it is good to study and understand the various teachings, but I think it is far more valuable to understand our own minds.




Terma

[invasuant]

Amen to your whole post, Terma.

[Yessaniloas]

Is it necessary to choose one of the several Buddhist traditions? No