Is Forgiveness Not Buddhist?

Summary

In the essay "Forgiveness is Not Buddhist," Ken McLoud explores the concept of forgiveness in Buddhism, contrasting it with its Christian roots. He argues that forgiveness, often seen as a contractual obligation in Christianity, doesn't align with Buddhist principles, where karma is individual and cannot be erased by another's forgiveness. T. Soro counters this view, suggesting that forgiveness is not about absolving past wrongs but preventing future negative karma by releasing animosity. The discussion reveals that forgiveness can be a profound practice in Buddhism if understood as a means to cultivate compassion and break the cycle of retribution.

Takeaways

• 😀 Forgiveness is framed differently in Buddhism compared to Christianity, with significant theological implications.
• 😀 Christianity emphasizes a contractual relationship between God and humanity, particularly through the lens of original sin and Jesus' sacrifice.
• 😀 In Buddhism, karma is seen as an individual responsibility that cannot be erased by another person's forgiveness.
• 😀 Ken McLoud critiques the notion of forgiveness as a power dynamic, where the forgiver holds control over the forgiven.
• 😀 True forgiveness in Buddhism is not about absolving past wrongs but preventing future negative karma.
• 😀 Tanisaro Bhikkhu argues that forgiveness is essential for breaking the cycle of hostility and animosity.
• 😀 The Dhammapada teaches that hatred cannot end through hate, but only through non-hate.
• 😀 Understanding forgiveness as a self-interested act contradicts core Buddhist principles.
• 😀 Forgiveness can be a method of cultivating kindness and letting go of vengeance.
• 😀 The interpretation of forgiveness in Buddhism depends on whether it is viewed as transactional or as a path towards greater compassion.

Q & A

What is the main thesis of Ken McLoud's essay 'Forgiveness is Not Buddhist'?

Ken McLoud argues that the conventional understanding of forgiveness is rooted in Christian traditions, which differs fundamentally from Buddhist views on karma and interpersonal relationships.

How does McLoud connect forgiveness to Christian spirituality?

McLoud explains that in Christianity, forgiveness is central due to the concept of original sin and the belief that Jesus' sacrifice absolves humanity's sins, establishing a contractual relationship between God and humans.

What is the Buddhist perspective on karma as it relates to forgiveness?

In Buddhism, karma is inherently individualistic, meaning one person cannot erase another's karma. Instead, individuals must face their own karma or mitigate it through good deeds.

What two methods does Buddhism offer to lessen bad karma?

The two traditional methods are: experiencing the consequences of bad karma through painful experiences or performing good deeds to accumulate positive karma.

What analogy does McLoud use to illustrate the relationship between good and bad karma?

McLoud compares the effects of bad karma to a teaspoon of salt in a glass of water versus in the Ganges River, illustrating how a larger amount of good karma can diminish the impact of bad karma.

What concern does McLoud raise about the power dynamics of forgiveness?

McLoud points out that forgiveness can create an egoistic power dynamic, where the person who forgives holds power over the one being forgiven, which contradicts the selfless nature of Buddhist practice.

How does T. Saro's view on forgiveness differ from McLoud's?

T. Saro agrees that forgiveness is not about absolving someone of their karma but sees it as a practice to prevent future bad karma and to break the cycle of animosity.

What does T. Saro suggest is the essence of forgiveness practice?

According to T. Saro, the essence of forgiveness is to cut off the roots of future bad karma and to relinquish vengeful feelings, thus promoting peace and understanding.

What teaching from the Dhammapada does T. Saro reference to support his argument?

T. Saro references a teaching that states hatred cannot end through hatred but only through non-hate, emphasizing the need to forgo animosity.

What conclusion does the video reach about the nature of forgiveness in Buddhism?

The conclusion is that if forgiveness is understood as a means to break the cycle of retribution and animosity, it aligns with Buddhist principles. However, if seen as a transactional or egoistic act, it does not fit within Buddhist practice.