Has anyone ever wondered what Nisargadatta meant by this quote?
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I often get asked, "if there is no free will in the Buddha's teachings then why does he include ethical precepts and teachings (ie 8-fold path). Here's some thoughts on this. The notion of free will as an absolute, unrestricted ability to make choices is seen as an illusion. Instead, Buddhism emphasizes the concept of conditioned arising, suggesting that our actions are determined by various factors such as past experiences, mental states, and external conditions. These factors shape our decisions and actions, negating any free will.
However, Buddhism also recognizes the importance of cultivating ethical conduct and developing wisdom to make skillful choices that lead to well-being and liberation from suffering. The practice of mindfulness and insight meditation allows individuals to observe their thoughts, feelings, and intentions, fostering a greater awareness of the conditioning factors that influence their actions. By understanding and working with these conditions, practitioners can cultivate more wholesome intentions and actions. Let me know if you found this helpful.
I have a video on this topic as well. https://youtu.be/aCpwicDOtsw
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Have you ever wondered what the Buddha meant by realizing the deathless?
Here is everything you ever wanted to know about enlightenment and the deathless https://youtu.be/g2Un7583Bl4
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Are you interested in awakening to your loving and compassionate true nature? Here you'll find the complete talks and Q & A associated with my weekly meditation group, as well as extra videos during the week. The videos bring together information and experiential practices on how to transform your life and awaken, introducing material from Buddhism and other spiritual traditions told from a modern, secular perspective: focusing on direct practices for reducing suffering in your daily life AND AWAKENING.
The person known as Steven Hick has a PhD in social work, nine book publications, publications in scholarly journals, and over 30 years of Buddhist practice in the Zen and Theravāda traditions. He is the founder and director of the Ottawa Insight Meditation Community and Dharma Teacher with True North Insight.
1 November 2006