The Zen Studies Podcast 40 - Being Beneficial Instead of Right: The Buddhist Concept of Skillful Means
11 snips
Dec 7, 2017 This podcast explores the Buddhist concept of skillful means to effectively share wisdom with others. It emphasizes the importance of patience, compassion, and creativity in this process. The podcast also discusses the Lotus Sutra and its use as a strategy for positive change. Additionally, it explores the practice of unconditional respect and the optimistic approach of Mahayana Buddhism in contemporary times.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Difficulty Sharing Enlightenment
- Sharing wisdom requires patience, creativity, and compassion for others to accept and act on it.
- Buddha himself doubted many would understand or accept enlightenment.
Apply Skillful Means Stepwise
- To help others, consider if they can hear, accept, understand, and are ready to change.
- Adapt your methods kindly and creatively instead of assuming others must just listen.
Parable of Lost Son
- The Lotus Sutra’s parable of the lost son shows gradual, patient help helps someone fearful accept their true identity.
- The father helps his son step-by-step from doubt to inheritance without revealing truth too soon.