"Here there is no talk of the world's affairs - those matters that make wild the hearts of men." Chia Tao (779-843); trans. Mike O'Connor

Saturday, September 4, 2010

My Zen View and Haiku - A Theocracy? - September 4, 2010

To create a nation founded on a single religion’s principles may seem noble. After all, the major religions state their faith promotes peace, respect, and compassion. Invariably, though, the reality devolves into the Orwellian version of “all religions are equal, but some religions are more equal than others.” Are Christians treated equitably in Iran? Are Muslims treated with respect in America? The nobility of inclusion quickly becomes one of exclusion, as it is decided the “other” is just wrong or evil. The perpetual struggle of trying to maintain a theological supremacy as a governing form would only bring harm.

From a Zen Buddhist perspective, the struggle is not with another’s faith but with our own delusions, attachments, and aversions. Nations come and go. Our focus should be on love, compassion, and service.

Tree limbs do not fight.
They all connect to one trunk
And one source of love.

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