Question 87: WHY DO SOME MEDITATION MASTERS EXPRESS CONTEMPT FOR THE BUDDHA, WHEN THEY...?

Question 87: WHY DO SOME MEDITATION MASTERS EXPRESS CONTEMPT FOR THE BUDDHA, WHEN THEY SHOULD RESPECT THE BUDDHA MORE THAN ORDINARY PEOPLE?Answer: This phenomenon is a side effect that can occur when individuals achieve certain results in meditation. Historically, the ancient Venerable Arahants held the Buddha in the highest regard and would not dare to move while in His presence. However, some meditation masters have been misunderstood. As their minds become purified, they may develop an inflated sense of self-importance, believing they have attained enlightenment equal to the Buddha's. This can lead them to express arrogance and disrespect. Such prideful words can diminish the merit of other beings and weaken the Dharma.This issue stems from a lack of proper guidance regarding the absolute respect that should be shown to the Buddha. When people make progress in meditation, they may unfortunately develop a rebellious attitude. True freedom is not about disrespecting the Buddha but about being liberated from afflictions when faced with adversity or temptation.In the Anguttara Nikaya, the Buddha taught that loyalty is a great virtue. As one properly progresses on the spiritual path, they should become more perfectly virtuous and loyal. Those who achieve results in meditation should feel eternal gratitude toward the Buddha. This attitude will prevent us from falling into wrong views. Individuals who attain the First Stage of Snlightenment (or First Level of Sainthood) which is known as Stream-entry (Sotapanna) develop the utmost respect for the Buddha and are assured of eventually attaining the Fourth Stage of Enlightenment aka Full Enlightenment (Arahant).In conclusion, regardless of one's progress, it is essential to maintain unwavering respect for the Buddha throughout countless lifetimes.#Buddha, #Buddhism, #Buddhist, #Truedharma, #Meditation, #Enlightenment, #Buddhatemple, #TheLawofKarma, #Blessing, #Goodblessing, #Janna, #JannaMonastery, #JannaOrderMonastery, #LawOfKarma, #CauseAndEffect, #UniversalTruth, #KarmicRetribution, #AxiomaticTruth, #PhilosophyOfMind,