"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

Monday, December 12, 2011

Zen and Angels

Buddhist angels are the only TRUE angels. Just kidding. This question goes to the heart of faith and belief and can be gauged as either experiential or dogmatic. If you have experienced an angelic encounter then it is as true for you as your breath. If you have not experienced meeting an angelic being, then you are relying on the teachings of others and may choose to believe or not. 

There are some Buddhist teachings that discuss spiritual beings called “Devas.” They are considered more evolved and peaceful than other beings but they are not immortal. You can believe in them, or not, and still be a good Buddhist. In Zen Buddhism, the issue is not whether angels exist. Rather, it is focused toward an experiential understanding where knowing replaces dogma.

The hug of a child
Is a holy gift of love.
No faith is needed.

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