In Zen Buddhism, we know that violence is wrong because it increases suffering for both the abused and the abuser. Whatever short-term satisfaction is achieved by violence, the long-term result is always harmful. If violent images such as the 9/11 attack promote a peaceful and nonaggressive response — such as interfaith dialogues, a more equitable distribution of the world’s wealth, a compassionate attitude toward other cultures — then there could be merit in viewing such images. Generally, though, violent images serve only to incite anger or a desire for revenge.
A Zen approach is to acknowledge violent images exist and rather than dwell on them, respond instead by working toward increasing peace and compassion by nonaggressive means. One doesn’t reduce violence by hatred. Violence is reduced by compassionate effort.
A lotus blossom
Has roots in mud. Yet it grows
Upward in beauty.
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