Expert: Alex Wilding - 3/13/2009

Question
QUESTION: Greetings,

I’m working with an idea that says virtually all belief systems think that everyone is related or at least connected, be it through genetics, consciousness, energy, karma or some other way. Is there any Buddhist thinking that would support this sort of universal connection? If it doesn’t support the idea of universal connection that is already present, does meditation offer a vehicle to connection through intention?

Thanks for your thoughts,
Richard



ANSWER: Dear Richard,
I'm afraid I don't understand your question. Obviously enough, everything is connected to everything else, otherwise things that were not connected would be off in some disconnected bubble somewhere. What more are you trying to get at?
Sorry, but without more idea about your question I'm not going to be able to offer much of an answer.
All the best
Alex W

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Dear Alex,
Evolutionists believe that we all came from two people about 60,000 years ago, thus we are biologically connected. Those who believe in Creationism believe that we came from Adam and Eve, thus again we are biologically connected. I know that Buddhism doesn't contemplate the origins of life. However, I'm guessing that Buddhists believe that our actions and thoughts are intertwined. Is it the case that I can meditate and affect my friend, my neighbor, someone I don't know? Whether or not we are biologically connected, are we not all inextricably link, like spiders on a web, by  thought and action?

Thanks again,
Rick

Answer
Hi Rick,
In a word, yes. Although I don't see that it's essential to have a view on this in Buddhism. But I think most Buddhists would accept the idea that our thoughts can directly help others - that is the basis, I suppose, of Buddhist "prayers". These prayers are usually just expressions of good wishes, as of course we don't believe in some controlling god who might, on rare occasions, answer requests.
Yes, I like the expression you use, that we are all inextricably linked, though by the word "we" I would understand not just humans, but all sentient beings.
And yes again, this would be true whether or not the human race goes back 4000 years, 4000000 years or uncountable aeons.
All the best
Alex W