Expert: Justin Choo - 4/28/2009

Question
Hey Justin, I'm Aaron. As an assignment for religion, we have been told to research on a Buddhist ritual, and how it has impacted on Australian worshipers. We have been told to interview a Buddhist for this assignment, so I'd hugely appreciate it if you could answer a few questions.



1. Has Buddhism, more specifically meditation changed your outlook on the universe? If so, how?



2.Are there any restrictions in Buddhism? more specifically meditation?



3. How has Buddhism/meditation impacted on your daily life?



4. How effective is meditation in actually achieving it's purpose? What would life be like without this ritual?



5. What are the signs and symbols in Buddhism and do they interact with it's participants?


Really appreciate your time and help (:

Answer
Hi Aaron,

As your assignment relates to "Australian worshipers" I think you should interview an Aussie Buddhist.  However, I shall answer your questions.

1. Has Buddhism, more specifically meditation changed your outlook on the universe? If so, how?
I studied Buddhism since young.  My outlook did not really change as I always understand the universe in a Buddhist perspective.  
The universe has no beginning and no ending.  Planetary systems emerge and disintegrate in cycles.


2.Are there any restrictions in Buddhism? more specifically meditation?

Buddhism is about peace and harmlessness.  It does not impose any restrictions on its followers.  It advices them to avoid evil and to do good.  It is up to them to decide as intelligent and responsible human beings.



3. How has Buddhism/meditation impacted on your daily life?

To follow the Golden Rule:
Do not do to others which you do not wish done to you.

4. How effective is meditation in actually achieving it's purpose? What would life be like without this ritual?
Buddhist meditation is not a ritual.  It is a very serious practice in self discipline and taming of the mind, to understand the true nature of life and the universe.


5. What are the signs and symbols in Buddhism and do they interact with it's participants?
The most common symbols are the lotus, the wheel, Buddha images, and the Buddhist flag.  They don't really interact with its participants.  They are just signs and symbols.
More info here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhist_symbolism

Hope this helps.

Justin Choo