What Faith Means in Buddhism?
Unlike many other religious people in the world, Buddhists do not believe that there is an almighty god who is the creator of everything and has the ability to intervene in our lives. But like followers of other religions, the believers of Buddhism also have faith in their religion. Then, what does faith mean in Buddhism? Khenpo Sodargye discusses the question in this talk.
With Faith, We Can Attain Enlightenment Ultimately
Excerpt 1：What Is the Most Important Faith?
The most important faith is the one incorporated with wisdom of aspiring for spiritual progress. No matter which religion you believe in, your faith should be based on the pursuit of inner realization.
Excerpt 2：Not Making Snap Judgment of Any Religion
Every religion, including Buddhism and other religions, has profound knowledge. Without adequate investment of time in the research, study and exploration of any religion, you should never rashly reject nor disparage its philosophies or viewpoints. You may not be able to correct such a mistake for the rest of your life.
Excerpt 3: It Is Faith That Counts in Buddhism
Like a burnt seed that can never sprout, a person without faith can never create merit by practicing virtuous Dharma. Therefore, it is faith that counts in Buddhism. People without faith will encounter great difficulties in their practice of any virtuous deed, with little hope of any success.
Excerpt 4: Observation Comes Before Our Acceptance
In Buddhism, we are encouraged to cross-examine the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni. If, after careful examination, we find that the Buddha’s teachings are reasonable, we can accept them. Otherwise, we can reject them. This was taught by the Buddha himself in the sutras.
Excerpt 5: With Faith, We Can Attain Enlightenment Ultimately
With faith, we can ultimately attain enlightenment. Inner realization is of utmost importance to every person. If we can genuinely realize the nature of our mind, which is empty, luminous and eternal, then all the worldly afflictions, sufferings, anxieties and griefs will disappear completely.
Observation Comes Before Our Acceptance
In Buddhism, we are encouraged to cross-examine the teachings of Buddha Shakyamuni. If, after careful examination, we find that the Buddha’s teachings are reasonable, we can accept them. Otherwise, we can reject them. This was taught by the Buddha himself in the sutras.
With Faith, We Can Attain Enlightenment Ultimately
With faith, we can ultimately attain enlightenment. Inner realization is of utmost importance to every person. If we can genuinely realize the nature of our mind, which is empty, luminous and eternal, then all the worldly afflictions, sufferings, anxieties and griefs will disappear completely.
“Faith is not something so religious and unusual. Actually, everyone is familiar with the concept of faith, i.e. the absolute confidence in or a willingness to accept the existence of someone or something.”
