Are Labels Useless?


Q:
It doesn’t matter whether one calls oneself a Buddhist when one is practising the Buddha’s way. Often, we are too attached to a label and think our label is better than another’s. We should continue to spread the good teachings of the truth, but we don’t have to make comment on any other beliefs.

A: It’s important to give due to the Buddha’s teachings at appropriate times, by sharing with others that what we practise (which they see to be beneficial) is what we learnt from Buddhism – so that others know where to learn what we practise – from Buddhism. This is how we can lead those interested to benefit from Buddhism.

Labels can be useful for communication, though we shouldn’t be too attached – which makes everything superficial. If there are no labels used at all, communication would be impossible. Comments on various religions are necessary to promote inter-religious dialogue and understanding. What matters is to not comment with animosity, but with good will.

3 thoughts on “Are Labels Useless?

  1. Thanks again for the sharing. In term of worldly label it is undeniable a “must have” entity for the sake of communication & interaction. Without label the system won’t work & the world will be in chaos. But spiritual label is less important. But does not mean it is useless…_/\_

  2. Labels are like a brand. It is not important when you simply leave it as it is. But it becomes important when others try to drive your brand to extinction. If Buddhism ceases to exist and becomes fragment of info without a name or teacher. How then will faith be able to get to you?I do not believe in 随缘. I believe in 缘助。If you have given 缘助 and assess that it’s better to 随缘, then that 随缘 is not 随便. Sometimes being attached to verbal labels will also make us fail to see the other side at proper times which becomes a self fulfilling prophecy. Hopefully 随缘 has not become a mantra. If other beliefs system have proven us that they do not 随缘 yet can produce the results. 缘can be changed and improved.

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