Expert: Justin Choo - 6/13/2009

Question
I have been trying to practice the Dhamma and live a detatched life of peace.  I have always favored a 'middle path'.  But I have been developing questions that books can't answer.  Fishing is awfully meditative, almost wu wei/zen.  I have also read that fish have few if any nerves in their mouth so the hook doesn't hurt, as evidenced by some fish repeatedly taking the same hook.  The danger is using live bait and in the handling of the fish once caught.

AM I to assume that causing intentional discomfort is the same as intentional harm?  What about catching a cockroach yesterday and imprisoning it only to release it outside?  I prevented it's death but scared it and imprisoned it.  I have also considered fishing using plastic bait, and bending the hooks so they can't pierce the fish.  Would that be ok? While fishing is enjoyable and meditative, should I just then medititate?  The desire to find peace and enjoyment represent dukkha?

Also, why are plants not considered sentient?  Could it be that they are a parrallel realm on the wheel, perhaps like a purgatory?  Or, what if plants ARE nirvana (nibana)?  Total peace, unattached, contentment, propogating endless genetic copies of themselves!?   

-Marc

Answer
Hi Marc,

Just imagine that you are the fish.  Would you like to be treated such?

Plants are not sentient beings because they do not have consciousness.  They only respond by stimulation.


Hope these short answers help.

Take care.

Justin Choo