Introduction: Throughout his teachings, Buddha addressed a wide array of topics that remain relevant to human life and society today. In this article, we delve into Buddha’s teachings on five key areas: alcohol, marijuana, sex, greed, and attachments/codependency. Through examining relevant quotes attributed to Buddha, we gain insights into his perspectives on these topics and how they apply to our lives.
Alcohol & Drugs: In his teachings, Buddha emphasizes the importance of temperance and moderation in all aspects of life, including alcohol consumption. While he himself did not partake in alcohol, Buddha never condoned excessive drinking or drunkenness. Instead, he warns against the dangers of alcohol abuse, recognizing its potential to lead individuals astray from a righteous path. Throughout Buddhist teachings, there are clear admonitions against intoxication and its associated behaviors, underscoring the importance of maintaining self-control and clarity of mind.
Quotes attributed to Buddha:
“Drink not the intoxicating liquors, O monks, lest ye should err and commit sin.” “The drinking of strong drink corrupts the body and soul.” “Let a man be watchful of speech, well controlled in mind, and not commit evil in bodily action. Let him purify these three courses of action, and win the path made known by the wise.” Marijuana: While traditional Buddhist scriptures do not explicitly mention marijuana, Buddha’s teachings on mindfulness and clear-mindedness can be applied to the use of any mind-altering substance. The principles of self-control and vigilance against worldly temptations are consistent throughout Buddhist philosophy. Practitioners are called to maintain a clear and sober mind, avoiding behaviors that may cloud their judgment or hinder their spiritual progress.
Quotes attributed to Buddha:
“To be idle is a short road to death and to be diligent is a way of life; foolish people are idle, wise people are diligent.” “Those who mistake the unessential to be essential and the essential to be unessential, dwelling in wrong thoughts, never arrive at the essential.” “An insincere and evil friend is more to be feared than a wild beast; a wild beast may wound your body, but an evil friend will wound your mind.” Sex: Buddha taught the importance of maintaining ethical conduct and cultivating wholesome relationships. He emphasized the sanctity of intimacy within committed partnerships and discouraged adultery and sexual misconduct. By upholding moral principles and respecting the boundaries of others, individuals can cultivate deeper connections and experience greater fulfillment in their relationships.
Quotes attributed to Buddha:
“In whom there is no sympathy for living beings: know him as an outcast.” “Let him not destroy, or cause to be destroyed, any life at all, nor sanction the acts of those who do so. Let him refrain from even hurting any creature, both those that are strong and those that tremble in the world.” “He who, seeking his own happiness, punishes or kills beings who also long for happiness, will not find happiness after death.” Peace and Prosperity
Sex: Buddha taught the importance of maintaining ethical conduct and cultivating wholesome relationships. He emphasized the sanctity of intimacy within committed partnerships and discouraged adultery and sexual misconduct. By upholding moral principles and respecting the boundaries of others, individuals can cultivate deeper connections and experience greater fulfillment in their relationships.
Quotes attributed to Buddha:
“He who, seeking his own happiness, punishes or kills beings who also long for happiness, will not find happiness after death.” “In whom there is no sympathy for living beings: know him as an outcast.” “Let him not destroy, or cause to be destroyed, any life at all, nor sanction the acts of those who do so. Let him refrain from even hurting any creature, both those that are strong and those that tremble in the world.”
All things must be done in balance and with your greater good for your heart and soul, in mind…. not carnal desires. Suffering stems from desire.
Peace and Prosperity
Brother Jeff