In Korean 한국어 번역
https://m.cafe.daum.net/enlightenment-k/dcM5/273?svc=cafeapp
■ The act of self-immolation as a religious sacrifice reaches the pinnacle of devotion in extreme ignorance.
There has been much discussion about the recent death of a monk covered in the news. Some refer to his self-immolation and death as a religious sacrifice, while others categorize it as suicide. The question arises: if one chooses to die alone, why involve the property of others, especially when it's not even one's own residence?
Here, terms such as "self-immolation(소신공양)" and "sarira(사리)" have emerged in the context of this news.
I'd like to discuss a few points from this news in the context of the right path of practice.
The right path of practice must involve making human life healthy and happy. Things that are extravagant, absurd, mysterious, or superstitious have no relation to the health or happiness of human life.
Even in the current 21st century, it seems that many people still consider self-immolation ( 소신공양) as part of their practice and perceive sarira(사리) as acquirements of such practice's result.
When examined in the context of the right path of practice, the right answer becomes immediately apparent. However, the reason people can not think out of the box is that human thoughts remain unchanged from existing consciousness.
The term "self-immolation" itself literally does not align with the essence of the correct path of the practice based on the principle of nature. It may have been created by a few powerful individuals or due to a misinterpretation caused by ignorance in the old era.
The consciousness level of modern individuals in the 21st century has a tremendous difference compared to the past, and even this gap is increasing rapidly.
Is it for conveying a message about one's own will, or is it done as a justification for the righteous cause of the group to which one belongs? Burning one's own human life in such a manner as an offering?
If so,
Would Buddha truly approve?
Or would God, or the Creator of this world, commend such actions?
The extreme combination of ignorance and arrogance reaches its pinnacle, creating a scenario where the individual truly doesn't realize the world is terrifying, becoming a ruthless dictator of self-destruction. Consequently, they burn themselves and engulf others' homes in flames, showcasing the most malevolent outcome.
In human society, there are laws, norms, ethics, and common sense. It's needless to say many words about this. Suicide, the most tragic end, or other extreme practices like self-inflicted harm are the epitome of ignorance.
I've seen videos considering meditation in solitary confinement as part of the enlightenment process, including methods gradually leading to a person's death. But claiming that it's a method for enlightenment is a severe misconception.
In the process of such deaths through such kinds of practice, if something seemingly profound is observed, it's a profound misunderstanding to think it breaks the path of practice.
The consciousness level of those individuals and their close surroundings is a significant problem.
People around them treated their actions well as an excellent example of practice, sympathizing with their dying moments, bowing, and even consoling their minds in front of their confinement.
Videos from past TV broadcasts can still be vividly seen on YouTube, transcending Eastern and Western cultures, depicting many extraordinary events easily witnessed in our present era.
However, depending on the perspective, one could think and express it in various ways.
Nevertheless, here, I aim to share my thoughts based on the right path of practice. You may form your own understanding of what I am trying to convey.
Now, let's talk about 'sarira.'
You can quickly find out the meaning and origin of this term online.
The formation of sarira is greatly influenced by dietary habits and behavioral patterns throughout one's life and can also occur in anyone.
However, sarira has no relation to the level of enlightenment in practice. Thus, changing one's thoughts and transforming consciousness while living becomes an incredibly challenging process.
Practice is essentially human life itself, happening in everyday life. Everything expressed in the current state – thoughts, actions, and behaviors – becomes every level of my life, shaping my personality, culture, and the present me, and nothing more or less.
The right path of practice means expressing the basics of human life. Based on that, throughout life, creating "a good life report (score)" and achieving "spiritual growth" are most crucial points.
Ultimately, spiritual growth means accumulating "love" during one's lifetime.
Whether for sarira, some justification for practice, or to obtain what I desire, sitting alone in a secluded place day and night, meditating, praying, and bowing, etc. may offer personal comfort or solace, but if it doesn't cause pain, it's a great relief.
From a universal perspective, any profound sarira is irrelevant to human life.
December 11, 2023
JS. Kim in Korea 🇰🇷
■ Reference
https://m.cafe.daum.net/enlightenment-k/dcM5/242?svc=cafeapp