In the West we think of religion as a part of our identity. But in Thailand, when they want to know your religion, they ask, “What religion do you respect?” Here it’s, “What religion are you?”
We mix religion up with identity. We use religion to justify our opinions, our preferences, things we want to do. So we keep recreating religion to suit us. But if you take the Thai approach you clear up a lot of questions. Thai people, for example, like to wear Buddha amulets partly as protection, partly as a reminder of the Buddha’s teachings.
But I have a number of Thai friends who, when they do something they know is against the teachings, take their amulets off. They’re honest enough and have the humility to admit it when they can’t manage a Buddhist response. Instead of trying to use the teachings to justify their decisions, they acknowledge their own shortcomings, and give up the expectation of any kind of protection from following the dharma. Also, the act of taking off the amulet makes them think twice about what they plan to do.
- I think we have to set limits on what our responsibilities as individuals are. The government didn’t ask me if they should go to war. I don’t feel responsible for that choice.
There’s a passage in the Pali canon where the Buddha talks about himself as a doctor. And I see that as a good role for Buddhists. If there’s going to be a war, we can see ourselves as spiritual medics caring for the spiritually wounded. I think that’s probably our best role.
Buddhism is tremendously helpful in resisting the temptation to make snap judgements. Even though the government and the media may be stirring up emotion, I think it’s our duty not to let ourselves get swept up in the mood of the moment.
Systemic change takes time. Look back at the Buddha. He had lots of interesting political ideas, but when kings came to see him he never talked to the kings about them. He was always talking to people in general, to plant the seed in their minds. And then two hundred years later, you’ve got King Ashoka.
- Part of the path is virtue and generosity, and generosity can include political action. But you have to see what your priorities of intention are.
I think it’s wise to place highest priority on our ultimate personal goal—awakening.
Thanissaro Bhikkhu
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