Question asked by Eli Levine
Dear Pastors,
Thank you for your reply to my last question. I suppose I'm still confused as to how one or others can tell if they are one way or another if they're being honest with themselves about how things are in existence. Who am I to declare myself a Once Returner, or a Bodhisattva, or a Buddha for that matter? How can we tell whether we are experiencing ego or whether we are experiencing an honest truth about our current state?
I remember watching the movie "The Matrix", and what the Oracle said to Neo about being "The One". She first denied that he is the one (when he in fact was the one), and said that it's like being in love; you just know it. I know exactly that she meant it will happen regardless of whatever anyone says or does (just as love works in that same mysterious fashion). I suppose I may be just insecure in my position, especially when it seems that there is much confusion among the Lamas and students of Lamas alike. How is one to tell when and if they are able to accept such a "crown", when it is taboo to accept it for oneself, and the judges are so questionable in their skill to judge it?
Hoping you can help. Thank you very much!
With all respect.
Dear Eli Levine,
There are a couple of points to consider when thinking about this. The first is that the various stages of realisation and ability have been clearly listed down in the various scriptures according to the paths to enlightenment. For example in Tibetan Buddhism this is the path of the Bodhisattva, which is known to have Ten Stages, divided into the Five Paths. If one is familiar with these stages, then one can gauge themselves when referring to the Ten Stages, and the realisations and abilities that are a result of reaching these stages.
Bodhisattvas and Buddhas do not usually declare themselves as such because they have lessened or completely removed their ego and therefore are extremely humble in their approach. As such there would be no need for them to declare themselves as Buddhas or highly attained beings. Within Tibetan Buddhism, however, there is a tradition of recognising these beings, so that they are able to benefit sentient beings. This recognition is always done by other high level beings manifesting as teachings, those who have gained realisation on the path themselves through practice, or enlightened beings, such as the Dharma protectors in trance of an oracle.
When you have reached higher stages, you know that you have reached these stages. That is enough, there is no need for you to declare yourself as such. And these high level beings would not declare it themselves, as this declaration would be based on the ego.
If you really believe in the Buddha’s teachings – that people can actually gain the same state – then why would you be in doubt about high level beings manifesting as teachers can judge these same states. This to me is a little illogical. Yes doubt can exist, but if you have faith in the Buddhist teachings, then you must also accept that there are beings out there who are in a position to judge the various stages of enlightenment of others, because they have been through the same process. I hope this helps.
Thank you.