The Greek philosopher Epicurus (341-270 BCE) wrote an interesting debate about God: “Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able? Then he is not omnipotent. Is he able, but not willing? Then he is malevolent. Is he both able and willing? Then whence cometh evil? Is he neither able nor willing? Then why call him God?”
For a Zen Buddhist, this discussion presupposes the existence of a deity actively engaged in world events or one who allows horrible suffering to occur. Either way, it is irrelevant as it falsely attributes the cause and cessation of suffering to an external source. Humans cause suffering through attachments and delusions. Humans can reduce suffering by right practice and behavior and actively working to reduce the causes of suffering.
An ancient question.
Why does suffering exist?
We believe our delusions.
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