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| Similarly, in the case of the mind, although there is
(in some sense) a physiological base, when you have a thought or
emotion, the actual consciousness is in the state of the experience.
Therefore, any malfunctioning within that has to be corrected by using
predominantly mental means and practice. Training and disciplining of
the mind are not only to be respected, but have great value and benefit.
We can say all the major religions of the world teach us various
techniques and methods of training the mind in order to enhance the
positive qualities of compassion, love, forgiveness and so on. |
Arrival
of HH the Dalai Lama at Nechung Dorje Drayang Ling, April 1994 |
Many religious traditions advocate and emphasize such methodology as the
cultivation of faith and belief. In Buddhism, faith is necessary, but
there must also be application of intelligence and wisdom. For
developing such faculties, it is important to use analysis, reason and
examination. This methodology in the spiritual path toward enlightenment
has parallels and a certain degree of compatibility with science where
analysis is very much emphasized.
Of course, there are many differences in the areas of the initial
motivation and objectives of science and Buddhism; however, there seems
to be a basic similarity in the approach where, in the initial stage,
one remains with an openness or a healthy skepticism. From the result of
analysis, one must develop a personal understanding. After developing
such an understanding one may accept something as true, so there seems
to be a basic similarity between science and Buddhism.
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