If there were inexpensive, local classes where you could learn about and practice enlightenment, would you participate?
2007-03-28 06:19:11 · 5 answers · asked by Paul P 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Most people think of enlightenment as a kind of magical attainment, a state of being close to perfection. At this level, one can perform amazing feats, see past and future lives of others, and tune in to the inner workings of the universe. This may be possible for a number of special beings, but for most of us enlightenment is much more in line with what Suzuki Roshi describes. It means having a quality of "beginningness," a fresh, simple, unsophisticated view of things. To have "beginner's mind" in how we approach things is a major teaching. In many ways, the process of enlightenment is clearing away the thoughts, beliefs, and ideas that cloud our ability to see things as they really are in their pristine form.
2007-03-28 07:22:32 · answer #1 · answered by sista! 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Community colleges have plenty of classes about the Enlightenment.
The period is facinating: the writings of limunaries such as John Locke, Russo, Jefferson, Adams, and Voltaire are great. And such a dramatic time the French and American revolutions are great reading!
Good Luck!
2007-03-28 13:31:09 · answer #2 · answered by adphllps 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Could be, probably but it would depend on the definition of enlightenment. If it's scientology then forget it.
2007-03-28 13:31:29 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Depending on how YOU define the term... Buddhism teaches for free... if you can donate, then you do so.
_()_
2007-03-28 13:31:07 · answer #4 · answered by vinslave 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Jesus taught them for free.
2007-03-28 13:23:51 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋