Question asked by Ganesh
Dear Pastors,
Thank You for replying to my previous question. As per your suggestion, I decided to learn Lam-Rim. Today, I read about the 8 freedoms. Under this hell, hungry ghost, animal and god realm is mentioned. Why something like "freedom from being born as an asura” is not mentioned ? What is the reason behind this? Also, does a Buddha appear in all realms to provide teachings ? (for example, does a Buddha appear in asura or god realm to provide teachings, like how they do in human world?). Thank You for the support !!
Dear Ganesh,
You are right that it is not mentioned as one of the eight freedoms. In fact being born in any of the six realms has its faults, however when born in the human realm we have less of these faults, making it easier to be able to practice the Dharma. Therefore these factors are known as freedoms.
In regards to the Asura realm, it is covered later in the Lam Rim, under the explanation of the sufferings of the higher realms. It was generally known that being born in the Asura realm meant your main afflictions was intense jealousy, perhaps then that is why it was not included in the list.
In regards to Buddhas appearing in other realms to provide teachings and bestow blessings, of course this is possible. Buddha Shakyamuni was known to have travelled to the god realms to teach his mother, who had been born there as god. Generally we have a tendency to limit activities of the enlightened beings in our minds due to our own limited perceptions. This is not the case. Buddhas can manifest as anything, even inanimate objects in order to benefit sentient beings, therefore of course they can appear in other realms. I hope this helps.