Joseph Goldstein On: Karma, Rebirth, And Other Planes Of Existence
Mar 18, 2024
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Explore mystical concepts with Joseph Goldstein as he discusses karma, rebirth, and free will. Delve into the intricate connections between past lives and actions, and the importance of skepticism in understanding esoteric concepts.
Karma is not deterministic but a guide for future actions, emphasizing the influence of present choices on outcomes.
Practicing kindness and generosity shapes karmic outcomes positively, illustrating the profound impact of simple acts of goodwill.
Openness to esoteric teachings like rebirth expands with verified experiences, emphasizing the value of exploring beyond immediate understanding.
Deep dives
Understanding the Buddhist Cosmology
The podcast episode explores the willingness of the meditation teacher, Joseph Goldstein, to discuss esoteric concepts like karma, rebirth, and other realms of existence. He explains why he has become more open to discussing these mystical ideas as he has aged, emphasizing that karma is not a deterministic principle governing all aspects of life. Goldstein delves into the connection between karma, past lives, free will, and the importance of skeptics maintaining a mindset of the willing suspension of disbelief.
The Influence of Generosity and Kindness
Goldstein highlights the significance of generosity and kindness in shaping karmic outcomes, illustrating how positive actions lead to positive results. He stresses the power of cultivating kindness in daily interactions, emphasizing that small acts of kindness, such as holding the door open for someone, can have profound effects. By practicing kindness and goodwill, individuals can positively influence the outcomes in their own lives and the lives of others.
Development of Openness to Esoteric Teachings
Goldstein shares his personal journey of becoming more receptive to the esoteric aspects of Buddhism. Through verified experiences in his practice, encounters with teachers like Deepa Ma who exhibited extraordinary capacities, and contemplation on the immaterial nature of consciousness, Goldstein's openness to considering the validity of teachings on rebirth and other realms of existence expanded. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open mind and a willingness to explore teachings beyond one's immediate experience.
Understanding Psychic Powers and their Relevance to Awakening
Psychic powers have been demonstrated by numerous teachers, not limited to specific traditions, and are viewed as an esoteric aspect of natural laws rather than magic. While fascinating, these powers are not essential for enlightenment or awakening, as they can be misused without wisdom, as highlighted in Buddhist texts. The Buddha differentiated between mundane and super mundane powers, emphasizing the latter's significance in attaining enlightenment and understanding the truth.
The Empowering Interpretation of Karma for Future Actions
Karma is viewed as a guide for shaping future actions rather than an explanation for past circumstances, emphasizing the importance of understanding how our present actions influence future outcomes. By likening actions to planting seeds with unknown but impactful results, individuals are encouraged to prioritize wholesome choices that lead to positive consequences, providing a sense of agency in determining the course of their lives through intentional actions.