Dear Friends,
Greetings! Today, we explore the mysteries of science and Buddhism, unveiling the truth of the universe and the path to spiritual awakening.
I. Science: The Interplay of Earth, Water, Fire, and Air
Science studies the interactions of the four elements:
Earth: Minerals, the foundation of all things.
Water: Liquids, nourishing life.
Fire: Combustion, driving change.
Air: Gases, flowing through heaven and earth.
Their interplay gives rise to plants and animals. Scientists explore their proportions, creating agricultural, industrial, and informational products through causal principles and repeated verification, advancing the material world. Yet, science, bound to the notion of inherent existence, cannot touch ultimate truth.
II. Buddhism: All Is Spirit-Manifested
Buddhism reveals: All arises from spirit, phenomena are dreamlike.
For example: Seeing a product, you don’t claim it; buying it, you cling to it as “mine”; discarding it, you let go. The product remains unchanged—only your perception shifts. Trapped in this dream, emotions fuel endless cycles of suffering. Awakening from illusion, you realize: You are inherently Buddha, endowed with wisdom.
III. Mind and Karma
Mind determines destiny:
Believing killing, stealing, lust, or deceit is good leads to evil deeds, reaping consequences in the realms of hell, hungry ghosts, or animals.
Trusting in precepts, meditation, wisdom, and skillful means fosters diligent practice, culminating in Buddhahood.
People chase afflictions, create karma, suffer its fruits, and, through ignorance, create more, cycling endlessly. Recognizing this, one feels shame for sinking in delusion and resolves to cut ignorance.
Through persistent practice, unyielding wisdom replaces delusion, and afflictions wither away. This is the essence of Buddhist practice: Illuminating ignorance with wisdom, transcending samsara with awakening.
IV. Science and Buddhism: A Fusion of Compassion
Science transforms the four elements, turning waste into treasures, like recycling rare earths—clumsy yet compassionate. When motivated by relieving suffering and bringing joy, it is compassion. We should recognize this kindness, support such endeavors, and repay the world. Science and Buddhism converge here, creating harmony.
V. Conclusion
Science explores matter; Buddhism awakens spirit. May we cultivate wisdom, swiftly attain Buddhahood, and liberate all beings!
Thank you!
