Faith traditions grow from love, compassion

Oswin Hollenbeck

June 26, 2010

Some years ago I had the opportunity of addressing a local Christian congregation that was studying other religions. I came away disappointed because I hadn’t found a way to convey to these good people the depth of the love and compassion that plays such a prominent role in the Buddhist faith. In my experience, it’s comparable to the love that many Christians feel is afforded through a personal relationship with Jesus.

I have found this love expressed several ways in Buddhism. One is through the emphasis on cultivating loving kindness. Some traditions present this as an actual meditation; others teach it as an underlying attitude. One starts with loving oneself, then extends this kindness to those close to one, then gradually in a larger and larger circle to even hostile people, and eventually to the whole world.

In the Zen/meditation tradition we aspire to become as compassionate as Avalokiteshvara, “She Who Hears and Responds to the Cries of the World” (Kwan Yin in Chinese).

We enter wisdom through compassion. This manifestation or being is frequently depicted with a thousand hands and eyes to illustrate that she has ample vision and assistance to offer. Much of Zen training, whether engaged in as a monastic or priestly vocation, as a temple resident or retreat guest or as a lay practitioner, focuses on cultivating and manifesting this concern for others.

In Buddhist iconography one can see many different forms of Avalokiteshvara. This artwork reminds us of a teaching from the Buddhist scriptures that the Unborn (the Eternal, the Unconditioned, or call it/him/her, what you like) loves humanity so profoundly that it will appear in whatever form is necessary to help beings. This is compassion’s fundamental vow. It knows no distinctions or boundaries. From such love develops all the different faith traditions of the world, each suited to the people among whom it arises.

In addition to finding compassion in the teachings and imagery, I have experienced an unconditional love and acceptance among the people who practice Buddhism. I can’t say that Buddhists are perfect, but I have yet to meet a practitioner who does not aspire to universal compassion, love and kindness.

In particular, for those in the Zen or meditation tradition, we have the opportunity for a close relationship with our teacher. The love between master and disciple is an intimate bond forged through mutual trust and commitment, to each other, to the lineage, and to the practice.

In its authentic form this relationship can lead one to the indescribable peace and joy that I believe all religions aspire to. This state is a refuge in the midst of all difficulty. It liberates us from the causes of suffering, called in Buddhism the three fires or poisons — greed, hate and delusion. With that freedom also comes the responsibility to serve and help all beings with a kind and compassionate heart.

May everyone quickly find a Path to the Ultimate.

The Rev. Oswin Hollenbeck is a monk of the Order of Buddhist Contemplatives and the prior (resident teacher) at the Eugene Buddhist Priory. This column is coordinated by Lane Interfaith Alliance to offer inspiration, share personal spiritual experiences and bring a deeper understanding of individual faith perspectives with the intention of blessing our community and world. For information, visit www.laneinterfaithalliance.org or call 541-344-0430.