Expert: Bodhicitta - 9/1/2006

Question
I have read many books this year about buddhism, but none of them mentioned spirits/ghosts. I was studying Wicca years ago and after awhile I realized it was far fetched. I've been reading about Hinduism and Buddhism since. I believe I am on the right path but I have alot of questions. Is there a spirit world? Do you have rituals for the seasons/equinoxes? In Wicca I liked the idea of blessing my house, do you do anything similar?
Most of the books I have read mainly focus on history of the Buddha,compassion,and anger. I would like to know about the metaphysical side to Buddhism. Or am I focusing in the wrong areas?

                   Thank you,
                            Michele  

Answer
Dear Michele
Thank you for your questions.

There are different lineages and forms of Buddhism and Hinduism. Different forms suit different types of people,
and emphasize different aspects. The remarkable thing
is the essence of the Buddha's doctrine remains the same
- the doctrine of awakening and enlightenment.

I think it is worth exploring these different schools of Buddhism and finding one that fits your own personality.

You say that you enjoyed some aspects of Wicca that felt
true and significant to you including a ghost world, rituals, and house blessings.

I think all these things are general realities  of life in asia
in Buddhist countries.Maybe so obvious to people that
they would not necessarily think to mention it if you
asked what Buddhism was.

Buddhism has the idea of the six realms. The human realm
is one, and there is a ghost realm and others. I am sure
you can find information on this in Buddhist books.The six realms represents different possibilities of rebirth.

I myself have studied a number of forms of Buddhism but have been particularly inspired by  Tibetan Buddhism. Tibetan
Buddhism does link very much into the more magical
aspects such as ritual.

Buddhism is a vast subject that links to every aspect
of the world. It will take you a life time to study.

In the West often we have lost touch with the rituals of the seasons, equinoxes, the ghost realms and a path to enlightenment. This is in my opinion why people look to
the new age, wicca and other western traditions. Buddhism offers this back to the West backed by a lineage and real depth.

I wish you well on your search follow your heart and don't stop Michele!
Bodhicitta