WINGED WORDS WEEKLY

Compiled & Edited by Rob Chappell (@RHCLambengolmo)

Editorial Associate: Sabrina Saelind

Editorial Assistant: Jessica Breckinridge

Vol. 3, No. 40: Week of August 14, 2024

 

August Theme: Ancient Wisdom

Episode #2: Wisdom from East & West

 

Editor’s Note

                During the month of August, our blogging theme is “Ancient Wisdom” – the continuing quest to learn from the past so that we can build a better future for the entire human family (and the planet Earth as a whole). This week, we present some ancient wisdom from the East and from the West, in poetry and prose.

 

The Light of Asia

By Sir Edwin Arnold (1832-1904)

Book 1, Lines 1-6

 

The Scripture of the Savior of the World,

     Lord Buddha—Prince Siddartha styled on earth

     In Earth and Heavens and Hells Incomparable,

     All-honored, Wisest, Best, most Pitiful;

     The Teacher of Nirvana and the Law.

          Then came he to be born again for men.

 

“Comparing Christianity & Buddhism: Bridging the Gap Between Two Great World Religions"

By Verena Keegan, Staff Writer

                Christianity and Buddhism each offer unique teachings on how to live a fulfilling life and cultivate inner peace. While there are certainly differences between these two religions, they also share several important similarities, such as the central role that compassion and moral values play in each practice.

                Christianity teaches that humans are created in the image and likeness of God and have an inherent dignity and worth. Similarly, Buddhists believe in the fundamental goodness of human beings and their capacity for spiritual growth and enlightenment.

                Another similarity between Christianity and Buddhism lies in the importance of spiritual discipline and meditation in both traditions. Christians often engage in prayer and meditation as a means of strengthening their faith and growing closer to God. Similarly, Buddhists use meditation as a tool for cultivating mindfulness, self-awareness, and inner peace.

                Compassion and moral values are also key elements of both Christianity and Buddhism. In the life of Jesus, we see the ultimate expression of love, forgiveness, and self-sacrifice. Similarly, compassion and moral values are highly regarded in Buddhism, and the Eightfold Path includes morality as one of its key components, emphasizing practices like truthfulness, honesty, and compassion.

                Both Christianity and Buddhism place a strong emphasis on personal transformation and the development of virtues. In Christianity, the Beatitudes describe the qualities that should mark the life of a disciple of Jesus, such as poverty of spirit, meekness, hunger and thirst for righteousness, mournful repentance, and peace-making. Similarly, Buddhist teachings include the Noble Eightfold Path, which outlines the steps leading to enlightenment, such as right understanding, right thought, right speech, right action, and so on.

                Christianity and Buddhism also share a common perspective on suffering. In both religions, suffering is viewed as a natural part of the human condition. In Christianity, suffering is seen as a consequence of sin and the fallen nature of the world, while in Buddhism, suffering is seen as a result of attachment and the impermanent nature of life.

                Another commonality between Christianity and Buddhism lies in their teachings on the human soul. Although Christians believe in the existence of an immortal soul that lives on after death, Buddhists believe that the self is temporary and ever-changing, with no permanent essence or "soul" at its core. Despite this difference, both religions emphasize the importance of spiritual growth and the development of virtues, such as compassion and wisdom, as a means of cultivating inner peace and liberation from suffering.

                The similarities between Christianity and Buddhism are not limited to abstract concepts and teachings but also manifest in ethical and moral practices. For example, both religions strongly emphasize the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Christians hold the commandment to love their neighbor as themselves, while Buddhists honor the principle of metta, or loving-kindness, in their interrelationships.

                The teachings of Christianity and Buddhism also intersect in their emphasis on the importance of humility and detachment. Both religions teach that attachments to material possessions and worldly desires lead to suffering and keep us from experiencing true happiness and freedom. Instead, Christians are encouraged to have a humble heart, and Buddhists are encouraged to cultivate detachment and non-attachment.

                Another similarity between Christianity and Buddhism is the importance given to the practice of forgiveness. Both religions emphasize the importance of forgiveness in order to cultivate inner peace and maintain healthy relationships. In Christianity, forgiveness is a central tenet of the faith, with Jesus himself teaching the importance of forgiving others in order to be forgiven. Similarly, in Buddhism, the practice of forgiving those who have caused us pain is seen as a means of letting go of resentment and cultivating greater compassion.

                Another intriguing similarity between Christianity and Buddhism is their emphasis on living a simple life and avoiding excessive luxuries and material pursuits. In the Bible, Jesus teaches that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God. Similarly, Buddhist teachings caution against the dangers of worldly attachments and the pursuit of material wealth, encouraging practitioners to lead a simple and modest lifestyle.

                Another shared belief between Christianity and Buddhism is the idea of karma or cause and effect. In Christianity, the concept of karma is closely related to the idea of reaping what you sow, which is expressed in the Bible in several places, such as in Galatians 6:7. Similarly, Buddhist teachings emphasize the law of karma, stating that all actions have consequences, either positive or negative, that affect both individuals and the world around them.

                Both Christianity and Buddhism emphasize the importance of spiritual transformation through inner reflection and discipline. In Christianity, this is often referred to as the process of "sanctification," while in Buddhism, it is known as "training" or "cultivation." Both traditions view spiritual transformation as a gradual process that requires commitment, practice, and patience. By cultivating virtue and developing mindfulness, practitioners of both religions seek to align themselves more closely with divine principles and ultimately achieve self-realization.

                Both Christianity and Buddhism acknowledge the presence of evil in the world and teach methods of overcoming it. In Christianity, the concept of evil is often linked with the concept of sin and the fallen nature of humanity. Christianity teaches that through faith in Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit, individuals can overcome sin and its consequences. In Buddhism, evil is believed to be the result of ignorance, attachment, and aversion, and can be overcome through the cultivation of wisdom, detachment, and compassion.

                Another important similarity between Christianity and Buddhism is the emphasis on the interconnectedness of all things. In Christianity, this is captured in the teachings of Jesus, such as "love your neighbor as yourself" and "do to others as you would have them do to you." Similarly, in Buddhism, the concept of "interdependent co-arising" teaches that all things are interconnected and influenced by one another.

                In both Christianity and Buddhism, the ultimate goal of spiritual transformation is the attainment of enlightenment or unity with the divine. In Christianity, this often involves the concept of salvation and reconciliation with God. In Buddhism, enlightenment is achieved through the cultivation of wisdom and the realization of the true nature of reality. While the paths to this goal may differ, the ultimate objective is the same: to overcome suffering and experience a sense of profound peace and joy.

                One final similarity between Christianity and Buddhism worth mentioning is the importance of ritual in both traditions. In Christianity, ritual is often expressed through sacramental practices such as baptism and communion, which serve to connect believers with divine grace and the grace of the community of believers. Similarly, in Buddhism, rituals like meditation and chanting are used to create a sense of focus and connection with the divine. While the specific rituals and practices may differ, both traditions use ritual as a way to cultivate divine connection and deepen spiritual experience.

                Finally, it's worth noting that the two traditions have had a long and complex history of interaction and influence on each other. While there have been some historical conflicts and misunderstandings, there has also been a lot of cross-pollination and mutual enrichment between Christianity and Buddhism. In recent times, there has been a growing interest in interfaith dialogue and cooperation between the two traditions. Many Christians and Buddhists have begun to recognize the similarities and commonalities between their faiths, and have sought to build bridges of understanding and respect.

 

Verena, the author of the preceding article, is here pictured with aharmachakra (“wheel of the law”), a perennial Buddhist symbol. (Image Credit: Digitized & processed by the Editor.)

 

“The Ballad of East and West” (Stanza #1)

By Rudyard Kipling (1865-1936)

 

Oh, East is East, and West is West,

And never the twain shall meet,

Till Earth and Sky stand presently

At God's great Judgment Seat;

But there is neither East nor West,

Border, nor Breed, nor Birth,

When two strong men stand face to face,

Though they come from the ends of the Earth!

 

"Unveiling the Hidden Mysteries: A Journey Through the Gnostic Gospels"

By Penelope Harmon, Staff Writer

https://earlychristianwritings.com

                The Gnostic gospels, often shrouded in mystery and shrouded in secrecy, offer us a unique glimpse into the early Christian world. These scriptures, rejected by many as heretical, paint a different picture of Jesus and his teachings.

                The Gnostic gospels are a collection of documents discovered in the mid-20th century. These texts, discovered in the Egyptian town of Nag Hammadi, challenge the traditional views of Christianity by presenting alternative narratives of Jesus' life and teachings. They offer a unique perspective, different from the more widely accepted biblical accounts, and shed light on the complexities and the diversity of early Christian thought.

                What makes the Gnostic gospels particularly intriguing is that they were not just isolated documents but formed part of a larger religious movement known as Gnosticism. Gnosticism emphasized secret knowledge, or “gnosis,” as a path to enlightenment and salvation. The Gnostic gospels were meant for initiates and those perceived to be spiritually capable of understanding their cryptic messages.

                The Gnostic gospels can be grouped into several categories, such as the Sethian texts, the Valentinian texts, and the Thomasine texts. Each group presents a unique perspective, some focusing on Jesus' teachings, others on his cosmic origin, and still others on the nature of reality.

                The Gnostic gospels, though often dismissed out of hand as heretical, offer us a window into a fascinating world of early Christianity. They emphasize the importance of knowledge and the spiritual quest for enlightenment, which contrasts with the more orthodox teachings of the time. This emphasis on individual spiritual development and the search for secret knowledge highlights the diversity and the complexity of early Christian thought. The Gnostic gospels, though they may be obscure to most, remain a rich source of inspiration and insight for those seeking a deeper understanding of the early Christian world.

                These Gnostic gospels, with their often cryptic and metaphorical language, have fascinated scholars and curious minds for centuries. The challenge of deciphering their hidden meanings and messages has given rise to a whole branch of study known as Gnostic studies. This discipline explores the history, the theology, and the culture of Gnosticism and examines the Gnostic gospels in their historical and cultural contexts.

                The Gnostic gospels have had a profound impact on later philosophies and mysticism. Their emphasis on the individual's spiritual journey and the pursuit of esoteric knowledge has reverberated throughout history and can be found in various spiritual and mystical traditions. This profound influence shows both the resilience and the universality of the Gnostic message.

                The Gnostic gospels also offer us new perspectives and interpretations of Jesus and his life. Their teachings often contain unique narratives and sayings not found in the more widely accepted biblical accounts. By exploring these alternative voices, we are able to enrich our understanding of this pivotal figure in the history of Christianity and gain fresh insights into his message and his mission.

                Although some Gnostic writings have been labeled heretical or even blasphemous, many contain profound spiritual insights and ethical teachings that resonate with modern readers. Their focus on the nature of reality, the dualism of the physical and the spiritual realms, and the inner journey towards self-discovery offer a spiritual path that continues to attract and inspire seekers today.

                As the decades have passed since their rediscovery, the Gnostic gospels have sparked countless discussions, debates, and reinterpretations among scholars and theologians. Despite remaining on the periphery of mainstream Christianity, these texts have maintained their allure and mystique, inviting a continuous dialogue between the past and the present.

                While the Gnostic gospels have often been associated with a mystical and secretive worldview, they also serve as a valuable tool for understanding the historical context of early Christianity. The texts offer glimpses into the beliefs, the values, and the debates of the time, providing a historical context for the rise of the Christian movement and the formation of orthodox Christian doctrine.

                Despite the often negative connotations associated with Gnosticism, it is important to note that the Gnostic gospels also share certain theological ideas with the orthodox Christian tradition. Ideas such as the idea of salvation through knowledge, the concept of a fallen spiritual world, and the importance of the spirit over the flesh can be found in both Gnostic and orthodox Christian teachings.

                In fact, some of the ideas and concepts found in the Gnostic gospels, such as the notion of a cosmic battle between good and evil, or the belief in the existence of an unknowable, transcendent God, are echoed in the mystical traditions of orthodox Christianity. The intersection between Gnosticism and orthodoxy is a complex and often misunderstood aspect of early Christian history.

                It is clear from these discussions that the relationship between orthodoxy and Gnosticism is a layered and multilayered one. The Gnostic gospels offer insights that can enrich and expand upon orthodox Christian beliefs, and conversely, orthodox Christian teachings can shed light on the Gnostic texts. The two are not mutually exclusive but can inform and deepen one another in a dialogue of exploration and discovery.

                As we continue our study of these ancient writings, it's important to remember that the Gnostic gospels, like any religious texts, should be approached with an open mind and a critical eye. While they offer a wealth of knowledge and insights, it is always wise to interpret them within their historical and cultural contexts. This critical approach will help us to understand these documents better and appreciate their place in the larger story of Christian origins.

                In conclusion, the Gnostic gospels are a crucial and often overlooked part of early Christian history. These esoteric texts offer unique insights, fascinating perspectives, and a glimpse into the complex and diverse world of early Christianity. Whether you are a scholar, a theologian, or just a curious seeker, there is much to be learned from the Gnostic scriptures.

 

Barbelo (pictured above) is described in many Gnostic texts as the “Glory of glories” (like the Hebrew Shekinah) and the first divine being to be emanated by the Godhead at the beginning of time. (Image Credit: Digital artwork created by the Editor.)

 

“In Christ There Is No East or West”

By John Oxenham (1852-1941)

 

In Christ there is no east or west,

In him no south or north,

But one great fellowship of love

Throughout the whole wide Earth.

 

In Christ shall true hearts everywhere

Their high communion find.

His service is the golden cord

Close binding humankind.

 

Join hands, then, people of the faith,

Whatever your race may be.

All children of the living God

Are surely kin to me.

 

In Christ now meet both east and west,

In him meet south and north.

All Christly souls are joined as one

Throughout the whole wide Earth.

 

Weekly Words of Wisdom

By Viviana Rivera, Staff Writer

                I love that passage in Mathew 7:7-8 where Jesus says, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."

                To me, this means that if we approach life with an open heart and a determined spirit, the universe will respond in kind, granting us what we need and guiding us towards our true purpose. :)

 

Stoic Proverb of the Week

Contributed by Amy Kendrick, Staff Writer

                Here's a Stoic quote about studying a broad spectrum of ancient philosophers:

 

"It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to entertain a thought without accepting it." à Socrates

 

This quote highlights the importance of being open-minded and receptive to different ideas and perspectives, even if they may contradict one's own beliefs or opinions.

                I think this quote is particularly relevant to Stoicism, as the Stoic philosophers themselves often encouraged their followers to study the teachings of other ancient philosophers and to draw inspiration from them.