"When the comforter is come..."
Coventry Cathedral, ca. 1960
My dear friends,
On this sixth Sunday of Easter, as we read the teachings of Jesus in John 14:23-29, let us also explore the profound parallels between the Christian understanding of the Holy Spirit and the Buddhist concept of Bodhicitta, the "Awakening Mind" of love, compassion and wisdom.
"Those who love me will keep my word,
and my Father will love them,
and we will come to them
and make our home with them."
This sentiment of immeasurable love, abiding with those who hold compassion and love in their hearts, resonates deeply within Buddhist teachings. Those who cultivate Bodhicitta, the altruistic intention to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all sentient beings, truly keep the word of love and compassion. Just as Jesus and his Father make their home with those who love them, so does the essence of Bodhicitta reside within the hearts of those who cultivate it.
and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me.
I have said these things to you while I am still with you.
But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name,
will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you."
The Holy Spirit, as described here, functions much like the awakened mind or heart, guiding and reminding individuals of their true path. Similarly, in Buddhism, Bodhicitta is that spark of enlightened mind which encourages us, guides us, and illuminates our path towards greater understanding and compassion. Both the Holy Spirit and Bodhicitta are sources of wisdom and guidance that lead us back to the fundamental teachings of love and compassion.
I do not give to you as the world gives.
Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
Jesus emphasizes the unique nature of the peace he provides. This peace is different from worldly peace. In a similar vein, the peace attained through the practice of meditation and the cultivation of Bodhicitta is unlike any worldly comfort. It is a deep, abiding peace, a profound serenity that permeates even in the face of challenges. The parallels between Jesus' teachings and the path of Bodhicitta are evident: both guide us towards an inner peace that rises above worldly concerns.
If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father,
because the Father is greater than I.
And now I have told you this before it occurs,
so that when it does occur, you may believe."
Jesus speaks of the transient nature of life, reminding his followers that physical presence is temporary, but spiritual connections are eternal. In Buddhism, the understanding of impermanence and interconnectedness is fundamental. While we are on this Earth, we must strive to cultivate love, understanding, and compassion, knowing that our physical forms are fleeting, but our spiritual connections endure.
Dear friends, as we reflect upon these verses from John and consider the parallels with the teachings of Buddhism, let us remember that at the heart of both is a profound call to love, compassion, and understanding. Whether through the guidance of the Holy Spirit or the cultivation of Bodhicitta, we are reminded of the universal truths that bind us all: love, compassion, and the quest for inner peace.
May our hearts be ever open to these teachings, and may we strive each day to embody the love and compassion that both Jesus and the Buddha exemplified. Peace be with you all.