Alan Watts Being in the Way Ep. 31 – Religion of No Religion
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Jul 29, 2024 
Alan Watts, a renowned spiritual teacher and writer, dives deep into the idea of a 'Religion of No Religion.' He explores how the highest Buddha can appear like an ordinary person and critiques how religious expressions often become clichés. Watts emphasizes the balance between the spiritual and the worldly, underscoring our interconnectedness in the universe. Through Zen poetry and philosophy, he illustrates the integration of the material with spiritual experiences, urging listeners to prioritize self-care while recognizing the profound simplicity of life.
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Secular Zen
- Zen art and poetry often depict secular subjects, like landscapes or everyday activities.
- This reflects the idea of a Buddha being like an ordinary person, leaving no obvious trace of religiousness.
Basho's Haiku
- Alan Watts mentions Basho's haiku, "The Old Pond, A Frog Jumps In, Plop," as a high-style Zen poem.
- Its secular simplicity avoids religious clichés, demonstrating Zen's focus on the ordinary.
Religious Clichés
- Religious pronouncements often devolve into clichés, leading to rote imitation of attitudes.
- This is why religions often decay into empty rituals, as seen in "The Imitation of Christ."