The Binding of Satan
The Macklin Bible, 1797
My dear friends,
The second chapter of the brief second letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica begins:
and our being gathered together to him,...
- 2 Thessalonians 2:1a
Here, Paul echoes a universal aspiration found in many spiritual traditions - the unison of the soul with the divine, a journey of returning to the source of boundless compassion and infinite love. The spiritual path, regardless of the many robes it may wear, is marked by this intrinsic aspiration.
Yet, Paul warns of tumultuous waters:
not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed,
either by spirit or by word or by letter,
as though from us, to the effect
that the day of the Lord is already here.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:1b-2
Here, the Apostle and Buddhist teachings converge, both urging a mindful, steady, and discerning approach to spiritual truths. It is a call to harness the tranquil steadiness of the mind, akin to the calm depths of the ocean that lie untouched by the tempestuous waves above.
unless the rebellion comes first and the lawless one is revealed, the one destined for destruction.
He opposes and exalts himself above every so-called god or object of worship,
so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, declaring himself to be God.
Do you not remember that I told you these things when I was still with you?
- 2 Thessalonians 2:3-5
Paul’s caution against deception is akin to the Buddhist teachings of discernment and mindfulness. In our journey, the mirages of false prophets and misleading paths are numerous. It is through the cultivation of wisdom, guided by the illuminating light of compassionate discernment, that we navigate through these illusions.
because God chose you as the first fruits for salvation
through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth.
For this purpose he called you through our proclamation of the good news,
so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14
Paul's appreciation for his spiritual brethren is a testament to the power of community. Just as the Buddhist Sangha, Christian communities foster spiritual growth, sharing the light of wisdom, and amplifying the resonance of love. In unity, we find the echoes of universal compassion – a force transcending names, forms, and doctrines.
that you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by our letter.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:15
Traditions are vessels, carrying the eternal truths of compassion, love, and wisdom through the ages. While the vessels may vary, the essence remains untainted. In the mutual respect and exploration of these traditions, we weave the rich tapestry of universal spirituality, each thread contributing to the majestic whole.
who loved us and through grace gave us eternal comfort and good hope,
comfort your hearts and strengthen them in every good work and word.
- 2 Thessalonians 2:15
Paul’s blessing of comfort and strength in every good work and word echoes the Buddhist aspiration of benefiting all sentient beings. It is a call to action – a reminder that our journey of spiritual unfoldment is not a solitary endeavor but one that is intimately connected with the welfare of all beings.
In reflecting upon the Apostle Paul’s words, let us draw inspiration to cultivate a steady mind, imbued with discernment and grounded in the universal truths of love and compassion. Let us honor the richness of diverse traditions while recognizing the unifying essence that calls every heart towards awakening.
In this spirit, may every step we take and every breath we draw be an offering of peace, a testament to love, and a journey towards the enlightened compassion that unites us all. In these times of change and uncertainty, let us be bearers of light, guided by wisdom, and united in love.