theos-talk.com

[MASTER INDEX] [DATE INDEX] [THREAD INDEX] [SUBJECT INDEX] [AUTHOR INDEX]

[Date Prev] [Date Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next]

RE: Buddha on WAR and the present

Aug 28, 2004 04:20 AM
by W.Dallas TenBroeck


August 18 2004

RE: Buddha on WAR -- and the present 

Dear Friends:

You ask:

"In that case, what should we do about tyranny, terrorism, and every

kind of selfishness?

According to Buddha, what do we do when our only choices are
inexcusable?" 


I would suggest that each student of Theosophy makes up their own minds on
this. And take what actions they sense are correct, dignified and fit.

What is "inexcusable" to one may not be so to another.  

What are the basic principles involved?

What would "right action" (universal and impartial) be?

Buddha suggests always the "middle path" of moderation. 

To begin, he suggests getting accurate information. Then on the basis of
fair and valid principles he suggests making moral and virtuous decisions
for ones' self. One can never go wrong on those. But this does not mean
"following the leader." 

A practitioner of "non-violence," like Gandhi, finds a way of actively
protesting, and liberates his country, in time. He discovers the weak-point
of oppression and advertises and exposes it. Others join him of their own
free will. Yes it is not suffering-free. 

The Principles of THEOSOPHY are plain. The Path of decision, and the
applications thereof, give each aspirant and student the opportunity of
actively participating in their own, and their country's elevation and
progress. Is this not the ever-present line of self-elevation, and Karmic
progress -- for self and all? 

Since this is a matter for private consideration and decision, no one is
entitled to criticize or demand explanations of another's actions. 

A country, community or nation declines when fear of consequences to one's
involvement in protesting unfair and unjust practises and impositions,
elicits no protest or action. There are no "leaders" in such matters as
each has to make decisions as free citizens for themselves. 

But when righteous suggestions are made, several can join and, maintaining
their independence, jointly contribute to ameliorate the condition and
position of their country or community. 

In this case, inertia provides the field for further tyranny, and this
proceeds to systematically overcome the indignation of individuals who
witness abuse of the foundation principles of such a promising country as
America is. By doing nothing they have chosen to contribute to further
degradation. 

It becomes the duty of every citizen to demand fair and just applications,
and the rule of Justice and Law. 

Evil flees when exposed. Evil has however a sly response: it seeks to
compromise individuals by getting them to make bad choices under threats and
coercion. It has always been so. 

It is a good idea to re-read the BHAGAVAD GITA. The subject is dealt with
there in full. 

Best wishes, 

Dallas
 
===================================

-----Original Message-----
From: Bart 
Sent: Friday, August 27, 2004 8:44 PM
To: 
Subject: Re: Buddha on WAR


W.Dallas TenBroeck wrote:

> 4	Ironing out difficulties and misunderstandings does not entail
> violence or war. The curious and unanswerable question is: Why should I
or
> anyone else, try to kill a perfectly unknown person or persons? Who
> benefits by death or the maiming of others? 
> 
> 5	On the face of it, war is inexcusable, as also tyranny, terrorism,
> and every kind of selfishness.

In that case, what should we do about tyranny, terrorism, and every 
kind of selfishness?

According to Buddha, what do we do when our only choices are
inexcusable?
	





[Back to Top]


Theosophy World: Dedicated to the Theosophical Philosophy and its Practical Application