Japanese Robes

What do you think about Japanese culture and traditions ? I am learning Japanese by the way? I am working in a large Japanese company for constructions outside my country , and I have loved Japanese organized structural mind and I have decided to learn this language ; I want your judgment or opinion about Japanese culture and traditions for those who have the experience in this matter * Thank you in advance

I want to learn more about Japanese culture and traditions!? Please, I need a lot of information! Any Japanese people in here to answer my question?

what books would you recommend for researching japanese culture and lifestyle? japanese pop culture, tradition, lifestyle, trends... any?

tips/ resources for learning japanese culture, lifestyle, and traditions?

Question regarding communism and Japanese Culture/Tradition? In Japanese history, Samurais would die/commit suicide for honor, if there was some sort of trouble caused by these Samurais. As in, if they were to cause some trouble by accident instead of helping the community, then they would end their life. Now, this honor is for the good of the community or the government or its people. Isn't this commonwealth the same idea as communism? I understand that Japan in ancient times was not under communist rule. But this ideology of honor and for the common good is similar to communism, no?

Does anyone know any good Japanese culture novels? I have read Memoirs of a Geisha and it enthralled me to the point of wanting to read something somewhat similar to this novel. Please note I want to read a novel that is rich in culture and tradition. Also it does not have to be about Geisha. Thank you in advance! =D

What are some similar culture or traditions that Japanese and Koreans have in common?

Websites on Japanese culture? From what I've learned about already (in school and by watching the History Channel), I am very interested in the Japanese culture and their traditions and what not. I'd love to learn more about it though, because I'd love to move there when I'm older. So, any websites with details on their religions, traditions, main foods, and other important things? Thanks. :) LOLLLL WTF?

Information on Japanese culture? From what I've learned about already (in school and by watching the History Channel), I am very interested in the Japanese culture and their traditions and what not. I'd love to learn more about it though, because I'd love to move there when I'm older. So, any websites with details on their religions, traditions, main foods, and other important things? Thanks. :)

what are the similarities & differences between the Chinese and Japanese American family traditions & culture?

How did the Ninjas disappear from the Japanese culture or society? And do real heirs of the Ninjutsu traditions currently exist?

Websites for Japanese Culture Topics? I'm doing a report on Japanese Culture and so far I've decided to do Japanese Language, Traditions, and Food. I need good websites directed towards those. I googled and yahoo'd for them but I need a bit more information and I cant find any others. Soooo, help please? Note: No Wiki sites please. I say this because they can be changed by people who don't have valid information. Thanxx, Much Appreciated.

Japanese iryubun (遺留分) and inheritance from mother. Are there traditions/rules to follow? Hi there, In Japanese culture, what is the tradition of dealing with inherited iryubun money from your deceased mother if your father is still alive and not even that old (<65)? Someone I know in this situation wants to help their remaining parent with the money (makes sense). However she also wants to make sure the parent is responsible with the money such that she doesn't end up needing to support him in the future. My question is, is there any typical tradition to follow in this scenario? My opinion is, if the mother and government wants her to have it, she should keep it in trust for him and make sure it is used responsibly. Also, if he were to remarry the money could end up going to the wife's kids and not her! Obviously she doesn't want to insult her father though... I'm not Japanese so I want to learn if there are any traditions or customs to follow... Or if not, any advice at all will do! Much obliged!

Am I weird for Loving Anime and Japanese culture? I just cant help it and I dont know why I wanna learn to speak japanese (currently am) I want to take kendo classes I love samurai and anime I love their food tradition people culture god....I love it all and I dont know why and when people ask me so why do u like that stuff so much I dont really have a solid answer I just do.....does anyone else feel this way? (I have family members make me feel odd or even weird for liking Japan so much) am I the only one out there thats like this? or am I just weird? sometimes I wonder if god meant for me to be in a different body (by that I mean someone japanese)

What do the Japanese think of the English? Answers from Japanese people only please, thank you.? So here's the situation. I'm thinking of going to live and work there, as I've always been fascinated and enchanted by the country/culture. I was also wanting to learn to speak the language before I go as I believe it is ignorant to go to another country and expect them to speak your language. Although I may not be fluent by the time I arrive I would probably be able to get by with the basics. My only worry is that there might be some resentment towards white English men because of our history with Japan, and our association with America. If you could help answer my question then I'd be very grateful. Also, I would love to learn more about the Japanese culture and traditions (as I want to try and integrate into Japanese society). So, if you have any tips then feel free to give them. Great answer Bella. I guess when I say integrate, I don't mean I want to be one of them, only that I don't want to be simply judged because I'm English. I know there's a certain image of the English, especially young men like me, that we all drink, act like hooligans and are ignorant about other cultures. Believe me I understand this as the English men quite often act like morons when abroad. Personally I think I'm different from this and just want to show a little more respect to a "foreign" culture.

What do the Japanese think of the English? ? So here's the situation. I'm thinking of going to live and work there, as I've always been fascinated and enchanted by the country/culture. I was also wanting to learn to speak the language before I go as I believe it is ignorant to go to another country and expect them to speak your language. Although I may not be fluent by the time I arrive I would probably be able to get by with the basics. My only worry is that there might be some resentment towards white English men because of our history with Japan, and our association with America. If you could help answer my question then I'd be very grateful. Also, I would love to learn more about the Japanese culture and traditions (as I want to try and integrate into Japanese society). So, if you have any tips then feel free to give them.

How is it accurate that Israel culture is deeply connected with ancient Japanese culture? such as their language, song, ceremony, and tradition? Who are the lost ten tribes out of twelve who spread from Israel to travel to far and far east? Silk Road ? Anyone know anything about this~!? I just found this after asking the question~!!! http://www5.ocn.ne.jp/~magi9/isracame.htm And this one~!! http://www.bneimenashe.com/

What do Japanese people really think about foreigners in Japan? Hi I am, Black, British At first I wanted to go to Japan for the girls, but have been learning more about Japan and Japanese culture I actually want to visit Japan But the thing is that having researching Japan I would like to experiences not just the Language but the culture. though I may see pros such as. "I am a foreigner in you land/country and want to take part in the culture, way of life" Although I know that not all Japanese are like this, but the cons may be more like "Yet another foreigner who "thinks" he is Japanese" are indeed discouraging They may have very good reason for disliking foreigners Yeah some people(foreigners) (westerners) may have done things that do cast us in a bad light. Though not all of us are like that, If I do go, I would not want to do anything to compound the negative stereotype that they may already have fixed on foreigners. For example, If someone would start a fight with me I would walk away (I usually walk away anyway) But I am unsure if it would may be seen as "yet another foreigner causing trouble with and or for a Japanese citizen" Though the way I would see it is more like "a**holes can be found in every country" While researching I found out things like, there are a lot of places that are "japanese only" and places where people are not allowed to go with out a japanese escort, companion etc... Could be indeed racist (But unfortunately racism would be found in any country) I apologize for how this would sound for, it does seem like I am stereotyping all Japanese, but I really do not mean to Sorry if I have offended you. So what do Japanese people really think about foreignors in Japan? Are there anybody who have been to Japan? What was it like there? How was your experience? Japanese people, What do I need to know before going to Japan? culture, tradition, behaviour, etiquette, norms etc... I ask this out of wanting to learn about and dispel whatever stereotypes good and bad of Japanese people and the nation of Japan. Although I also found out that there are Japanese who really like foreigners. Could you tell me more on this?

Japanese Culture Question(s) - Marriage/Wedding/Proposal I've been doing some research in the Japanese culture and I'm wondering if western traditions have leaked into weddings, proposals, etc. Like, when it comes time for someone to ask for there hand in marriage, do they ever do the western tradition of getting on one knee and offering a ring? Do brides at wedding wear white gowns? Or do they follow or another tradition? If so, can you explain this to me? Thanks. =D

Is Japan and Philippines compatible? I'm a filipino-chinese here, i actually follow japanese culture, tradition, i also study japanese, i just want to ask Is Japan and Philippines compatible?. Is it easy for me to enter Japan?

Is it a Japanese tradition or Culture thing? Okay so I was wondering something about the Japanese that I noticed. If you cut a girl's hair (I'm not sure if it's for guys, too), is that some kind of traditional punishment? I don't mean they go to a barber shop and get their hair cut. Because I noticed that in the movie Koizora, Hiro's sister cuts Saki's hair. Also, in Fruits Basket manga, Akito cuts Rin's hair for a punishment, too. So is that some kind of tradition of the Japanese? And not that it's a modern culture or tradition, but maybe it was used back then. Another example is when Zuko from Avatar cuts his ponytail off when he was banished from the Fire kingdom.

Where can I learn Japanese in Ohio? I am living in Central Ohio now and I am really interested in learning the Japanese language, I really like the Japanese Culture, rules, and traditions and the Food and I have no clue where I could go to study the language in Ohio. I am 17 years old and I am a Junior in High School and I have one year left of High School when I'm a Senior next year and I have no clue on where I could go to learn the Japanese language, I do know a few words too. I also want to know if there are any Japanese restaurants near Central Ohio where me and my family could go eat at one day and if anyone could help me I would be really thankful. I live in Madison County. I probably wont get answers anyway.

True Japanese Culture... insight? Hello, I am a student at the local university and I am taking a course in Global Issues in Education. I am working on a project that shares information on the culture of Japan. My question here is, are there any Japanese ladies or gentlemen that would be willing to answer a few questions with me and share some real insight into the culture of Japan in the way of education, government, economics, traditions, and lifestyles? For the project, we have to have primary sources, this means direct, first hand sources such as interviews and so it would be wonderful to discuss and learn more about the Japanese culture from someone that really knows it because they have lived there for an extended time or were born and raised there. Thank you for any help! If you wish to help me, you can reach me via my email from my page here at Yahoo Answers. Thank you Cathy

Please CAN SOMEONE CORRECT THIS BRIEF SENTENCE? Hey X! It's so good to hear from you! Well, I just know a few words in Japanese, but I would like to learn more ones. I'm so facinated by Japanese culture and traditions and i think you're so lucky to live there! What a wrote was something like: "Cool!" in kanji characters... And Yes I definitely like to know new cultures and languages P.S. i just loved your recents posts... Go haed this way! I fell so lucky to be one of your friends! Thanks!

japanese culture, legends, traditional things....? Hey! I'm really into my japanese culture and just wondered if anyone could broaden my knowledge ^.^ I would mainly like to know about little traditional type things like different ceremony's and also things that girls/boys do as a tradition... for example the japanese lucky star... there is an origami star that you makes loads of and fill a jar with them then you give the jar (with the stars in) to the person that you really like on valentines day. Hope you can help me ^.^ Thanks!.

Question about Japanese culture? I’m vary interested in learning a about other peoples culture and at the moment I’m studding Japan any traditions, mannerisms or customs anyone could tell me about would be most helpful And please be respectful, I’m asking out of curiosity and the wish to lean. I’d like to know how to go about learning or finding a place to learn things like the Tea Ceremony

Why are Democrats like Hillary and Obama so ignorant of other countries' cultural traditions? Allow me to educate you: In the Japanese culture A LOW BOW shows that the person who stands higher is of higher rank or social status. Its not about Obama bowing but the IGNORANCE of his action in bowing LOWER than the Emperor The question is why does Obama feel he is LOWER than the Japanese Emperor?

What happened to Japanese culture? Historically speaking, Japanese culture use to be dominated by strict rules and tradition. Women and men had distinctive roles. The world admired the strength and courage of the Japanese Warrior (shogun) and their strict codes of honor. From what I see, Japan is now incorporating cultural traits from around the world specifically western cultures.

Japanese culture question? I want to know that things are considerd rude in Japan that are normal in America and what traditions they have. just basically how to behave when being there.

Question for Japanese people: which part of Western culture have you found hardest to understand? If you are Japanese and have had to adapt to either European or North American cultures, what parts, traditions, values or otherwise, have you found hardest to understand or has taken you longest to comprehend? Similarly, which do you believe is least understood by Japanese people? While I direct my question to Japanese people, if you are neither North American or European, your input is also appreciated, as long as you indicate which country or culture you come from.

Do the Chinese say anything before they begin eating? I know that in Korean culture, a person says "jalmuhkgehsseumnidah" before eating and "jalmuhguhsseumnidah" after eating. I also know of a similar tradition in Japanese culture, but do the Chinese have anything similar to this? Thank you

japanese culture question? I am doing an assignment about culture. I am struggling to find some information on the net. If there is anyone that can help answer these i would be grateful. I need one example of a cultural restriction for Japanese people such as not being able to wear something or eat something. Also a tradition they follow. Something about their education and something in their culture regarding family. Thanks so much x :)

My mom (a Japanese) insisted that my wife (a Filipina) must stay at home and take care of our children...? I am currently staying in Tokyo and I am the only son. My father (a Filipino) died several years ago and I am now living with my mom. I married recently to a Filipina here in Tokyo last year. Since I am the only son, I can't leave my mom. My problem is that my mom insisted that it is Japanese culture that wives should stay at home and do the household. My wife insisted she wanted to work. I said that I am willing to give her allowance instead. Just to prevent trouble with my mom. Do you think that my mom is right? Is it really Japanese tradition that women are prefered to be at home?

How do japanese people treat their wives in their culture? Is it theri culture and tradition to treat the wife differently that in Europe?

Is Japanese culture really die after WW2 and truly that anime/manga have nothing do with their culture? Please try to be honest and think. I mean the tradition. Geisha, sumo, samurai, honor, katana, Shintoism, holidays. Who remember the invasion form America after the bomb of Hiroshima. Plus, my friend met two real Japaneses are disappointed about their culture and anime, which they hate and say anime fan are insane and dope and that manga/anime doesn't reflect the real life situation (values, themes) or Japanese real culture at all. Just to say I'm an anime fan and I know many from manga/anime don't relate to real old Jpaanese culture. Due to American invasion, Japanese culture lost their meaning and become more American. Baseball, a popular sport created by American, in Japan? Plus, would remember the era of Meiji Era, the British invasion and the end of samurai? Yes, I know some old items of Japan still remain. But in general , today not as the same as the old century. The main question I ask is mostly from the top. No offense for anime/manga fan. Be realistic. Yes two real Japaneses, hate anime and manga and criticize that have nothing do with real culture to be honest. No racist comment. Go talk Japanese and they will say the exact I post and they are ashamed. But what was said about it not applying to their culture anymore is mostly true because they have been influenced a lot by America since back in WW2. Go see Geisha. However, there are still some themes that are strictly Japanese. Plus, many confused that anime and manga is part Japanese culture but it not. Simply, an art form like Marvel or DC Comics in USA. Yes Japanese culture, the tradition really died in 1945, period. Many who know the real Japanese culture and this ethnic, are really tell the truth seriously and dishonored of today Japanese, who influenced badly by American. Where are their old root? Need to remind I’m rational and seriously mature for my age and quite realistic that my eyes are wide to understand the world. Don’t living in the bubble world. For Japanese, go tell your grandparents or parents about the American invasion who brainwash them to become this race. A friend who is a huge fan of anime/manga like me who wrote an great essay about Japanese culture have crashed because of 2 important historical events. There several events that rocked Japan, but here are the two biggest events. The first big event happened on the 6th year of Kaei (sorry I'm not totally sure on the date of this event) Steamboats from England and America pulled into the port of Uraga and demanded that the Japanese opened their ports to international trade. This marked the start of the Bakumatsu or the Meiji Revolution.(made famous in the manga Rurouni Kenshin) Before the Meiji Revolution the Japanese government had samurai in high positions, after the revolution former samurai were kicked out of the government. The new Meiji government even went as far as placing the sword banning act. But soon after the sword ban many samurai enlisted into the police force and into the military thus maintaining their pride not only as Japanese but as samurai as well. The second event would WWII, in this time of change the Japanese government sided with Germany. During the war the Japanese Government had conscripted the Geisha, in other words the Geisha were taken from were they lived and worked and were retrained to be army nurses, cooks, and factory workers. Of course America forces Japan to surrender by dropping the famous A-bombs on the cities of Nagasaki and Hiroshima. After the war many trade deals were made between America and Japan. But even today many pieces of Older Japanese culture remain, Japanese swordsmanship is enjoyed all over the world through the sport of Kendo (which I personally enjoy) and the Geisha are making a come back in famous tourist cities like Kyoto and the famous hot spring resort of Atami. As for anime and other famous Japanese items, people are allowed to have their own opinion.

In which of the post-war films of Ozu, Mizoguchi or Naruse, I would find the archetype of mother? the role of the mother is central in Japanese culture and tradition, and I`m looking for a character of athe mother in any of the post-war films of the three directors

When/where is it appropriate/inappropriate to wear a happi coat? I was given a happi coat by a friend recently. I went on different websites and they all say they are traditionally worn at festivals. I haven't found anywhere yet where it says if it is appropriate or inappropriate to wear these out in public for normal use. I just don't want to insult the Japanese tradition or offend anyone who would be more familiar with the Japanese culture than I am. Thanks.

culture, tradition and traits: inheritage from the japanese

Anyone on here know any Japanese tales, legends, and superstitions (esp. those of the dead/the spirit world?)? And traditions? I'm interested in Japanese culture. Anyone know any Japanese legends?

TRADITIONAL Japanese whaling? Hello, I'm japanese and study in uk. Why you European people have strong opposed views toward whaling? Basically its a japanese traditional custom and we pay respect to other countries' customs, religion, and cultures but why don't you accept this japanese culture and try to destroy our tradition? Many people think japanese people hunt highly endangered type of whales but NO WAY. Mainly we want a minke who has increased and not regarded as endangered species. You guys just suggest unreasonable reasons to oppose our traditional custom just because it sounds cruel. Why whaling can be cruel? it takes much time to lead them to death? So if it takes time to kill pig or cow, do you feel sympathy to them? (Probably not, because you dont have any scruple to kill them although you make so much fuss about whaling and dolphin drive hunting.) Or just because they are intelligent compared with other animals? Its a bias toward animals isnt it? So unintelligent animals deserve being killed? Look, WHY YOU ARE ALIVE NOW? because you eat meats, vegetable, and other things. We have to appreciate all animals and vegetable we always eat. Some people become vegetarian so as to show their sympathy to animals but why can you be such an insensitive to plants though you british people have great gardening culture. (you may think they are different but i bet you fully understand plants are alive as we and animals are) Thats why all japanese people say the words to show our gratitude, respect, and appreciation before and after eating everything. Even you dont know our such a custom how can you call us cruel? Is is more cruel to attack human on the ship isnt it? Ive also heard american people used to hunt whales in order to gain their oil and they disposed the rest of their bodies including meats into the ocean. After they stopped this they suddenly turned to supportive position toward the ban of whaling. Also, Ive heard American, British, Australian people hunted whales to get their whiskers which were materials to make a petticoat. you think is it justified just because it is the past? Do you know why the Australian government oppose japanese whaling because they are afraid of losing sales of Aussie-beef in japan. Thats why they shortly decided to kill a number of kangaroos when they are dispensable for Australia. You believe japanese scientists tell a lie in terms of whale research. How can we tell lies? you just dont try to face the reality dont you? I never bias against other countries' cultures and eating habits. For instance, i know some chinese people eat disposed fetus for particular treatment. Also other asian countries use dog meats in their cook. But personally i very positively accept their cultures and many japanese peole also do. In fact, I've never proposed my opinions about whaling since i came this country but this time I realised i have to because there are no japanese people who bring up this matter. Sorry, its really long but please think about our cultures again. Thank you.

What is a good topic to do on a powerpoint presentation to do with Japanese cultures or Japanese things? for e.g. my friend picked a topic i wished i picked before and it was Japanese gardens. It was beautiful to look at, interesting to learn about and cool. I also have to do a 5 min speech on it :S so something with info! This is some stuff (the teacher said) i may like to address: - Definition (what is it? How does it work) - History (What role has it played in the history of Japanese Culture? What is the history behind your topic?) - Location (where is it conducted?) - People (who is involved?) - Equipment (what equipment is needed?) - Significance (What are the ideas/concepts/meaning behind your topic? why?) - Customs/Traditions (are there any customs or traditions associated with your topic?) - Role in Japanese culture (explain the relevance of your topic to japanese culture. What does it show about japanese culture?) THANKS IF YOU CAN HELP! =)

Anyone have Japanese ideas in So.Cal? My boyfriend's birthday is next month. He really like the Japanese tradition and culture. Since I can't afford to buy him a ticket to Japan, i want to do something related to Japanese; so that I can bring Japan to him! But I don't really know what to do in relations to Japan. Does anyone have any suggestions? We live in Southern California, about 45 minutes East of Los Angeles. Can someone please help me? I dont mind driving somewhere, as long as its not far, and its not too expensive.

Japanese are good in horror and korean in comedy-love story movies? I've seen a lot of asian movies, but one thing that striked me most is that I found japanese horror movies so good and koreans are very very well in comedy-love story. Are these talents in producing movies has something to do with their culture, traditions, religions etc.

name two different world culture or Traditions? Identify two different cultures in the world. (ie. Maya, Greek, Arapesh, Mundugumor, Tchambuli, Maasai, Japanese, United States, etc.) Examine their traditions through various life cycles, both male and female. (i.e. infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, senior,

japanese and korean cultures?? k....i have a "friend" who is full korean (linda). i am 1/8 japanese and very proud of my background and history. she is very rude to me, and always making fun of me (rudely) because of the traditions in my family. like-sushi on christams. the other day, she told me that the japanese culture copied from korea. is this true? i tried looking it up on the computer, but none of it made sense.

How to make a Celtic (or can be Japanese too) birthday party? I have this friend of mine, she's having her 16th birthday (NOT SWEET SIXTEEN, in mexico we have something similar for 15 year old girls, so just think she is either 15 or 17 for the party.) And we're both interested a lot in Celtic and Japanese culture. However I can't get to find any particular Celtic tradition for the birthday parties. If anything I can find symbols or other stuff. Is there any special song of Happy Birthday in Irish and Scottish cultures? (a.k.a. both Celtic). Can someone tell me more about their cultures that has to do with parties, birthdays, anything. I don't mean like themed parties (which you can also tell me more if you'd like) but traditional and original Irish / Scottish birthday parties, either modern or back to origins. I'm talking about what specific music, dances, clothing (for both male and female), events or traditions when an Irish teenager (or Scottish) is having her birthday. If also you can give me advises on the same but Japanese culture. Thanks in advance. And If we wanted to dance a traditional Irish dance? Not that teenagers do it at their birthdays, but if they did, for example do you know what kind of dances are appropriate for a party? (with appropriate I mean that it is not a show dance, but an interactive group (can be couple) dance.) I actually think in mexico is the place where we do more characteristic parties. But it is mainly when a kid or a grown up. Here in mexico (in teenagers) some parties are exactly what you said : Hang out in the movies or a restaurant. Teenagers strangely do traditional parties :P So why would that be different in Ireland?. Thank you, I don't know how to reply to this stuff, so I hope you read this. It's going to be very similar then P:

Asians and Jews seem to attract each other. Why? I noticed that in modern times Jewish people and Asian people seem to unconciously drawn to each other. At least the modern young people, but I see it everywhere. Is there something cultural? Like having similar values? Or something to do with our histories in this country? I'm a 3rd generation Japanese-American....so at heart I'm pretty much American , and my mentality is the same. I don't hate my heritage or anything, I just don't feel a real connection with Japan or Japanese culture, although my family still celebrates japanese traditions to remember our heritage. anyway I grew up in Hawaii where there are few Jews, so I didnt really meet any. When I went off to California for college, BAM thats when I saw the connection. Mostly Jewish dudes with Asian chicks, but I definately noticed the opposite with the genders reversed. Also I would say the majority of girls who showed interest in me where in fact Jewish. coming from Hawaii i never experienced this and its kind of strange for me (not that I mind because they are beautiful and well endowed in where it counts haha)...im more into Asian girls but im attracting Jewish chicks instead. a good chunk of my guy friends are also Jews Maybe its just a West Coast thing

Jews and Asians seem to attract each other. why? I noticed that in modern times Jewish people and Asian people seem to unconciously drawn to each other. At least the modern young people, but I see it everywhere. Is there something cultural? Like having similar values? Or something to do with our histories in this country? I'm a 3rd generation Japanese-American....so at heart I'm pretty much American , and my mentality is the same. I don't hate my heritage or anything, I just don't feel a real connection with Japan or Japanese culture, although my family still celebrates japanese traditions to remember our heritage. anyway I grew up in Hawaii where there are few Jews, so I didnt really meet any. When I went off to California for college, BAM thats when I saw the connection. Mostly Jewish dudes with Asian chicks, but I definately noticed the opposite with the genders reversed. Also I would say the majority of girls who showed interest in me where in fact Jewish. coming from Hawaii i never experienced this and its kind of strange for me (not that I mind because they are beautiful and well endowed in where it counts haha)...im more into Asian girls but im attracting Jewish chicks instead. a good chunk of my guy friends are also Jews

Asians and Jews seem to be attracted to each other. Why? I noticed that in modern times Jewish people and Asian people seem to unconciously drawn to each other. At least the modern young people, but I see it everywhere. Is there something cultural? Like having similar values? Or something to do with our histories in this country? I'm a 3rd generation Japanese-American....so at heart I'm pretty much American , and my mentality is the same. I don't hate my heritage or anything, I just don't feel a real connection with Japan or Japanese culture, although my family still celebrates japanese traditions to remember our heritage. anyway I grew up in Hawaii where there are few Jews, so I didnt really meet any. When I went off to California for college, BAM thats when I saw the connection. Mostly Jewish dudes with Asian chicks, but I definately noticed the opposite with the genders reversed. Also I would say the majority of girls who showed interest in me where in fact Jewish. coming from Hawaii i never experienced this and its kind of strange for me (not that I mind because they are beautiful and well endowed in where it counts haha)...im more into Asian girls but im attracting Jewish chicks instead. a good chunk of my guy friends are also Jews Maybe its just a West Coast thing

A little help understanding Asian culture(Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Viet).? I am cold calling businesses and have done business with many Asian businessmen. That being said I do not want to offend or give a wrong impression from the first meeting. I have noticed when using the American tradition of calling people by there first name I am constantly being corrected. Let me give you an example and maybe you can help... Lets say I call Herbert Wang or even Yu Wang. When I call I will say, "can I speak to Herbert please?" I am typically transferred and when I reach them I usually hear, "Hi this is Wang." A little confused I may respond, "Hi Herbert???" and am typically corrected to call him Wang.... What is up with that? Does anyone know? For the record Herbert Wang (real example) was called the day of this post and he did refer to himself as Wang.

What do you think about Japanese culture and traditions ? I am learning Japanese by the way? I am working in a large Japanese company for constructions outside my country , and I have loved Japanese organized structural mind and I have decided to learn this language ; I want your judgment or opinion about Japanese culture and traditions for those who have the experience in this matter * Thank you in advance

What is the importance of a sea shell in Japanese culture or tradition? I'm just wondering because I've seen a lot of scenes when a man who laves a woman, he gives her a sea shell. Is there really a meaning on the shell or is it just something to make the scene more romantic?

How can you tell if a Filipino is Chinese, Japanese, or etc.? Are their traditions different from our culture? I know that filipinas have chinese blood, spainish blood, or etc. How can you tell if they look chinese, spainsh, japanese, or etc.? Don't chinese filipino celebrate chinese new year in the philippines? If you know what I mean if you watched the filipino movie Mano Po movie series.

Can anyone recommend anime based on Japanese traditions/Feudal Japan? Ninja Scroll is possibly my favourite. Can anyone recommend an anime series or feature that similarly focuses on Japanese historic culture - samurai, ninja, feudal times, shoguns etc? Thanks

How effective have the Japanese be in maintain their values and culture in their nation? Do immigrants, poor education and propaganda wreck their traditions and sense of personal identity as in the UK and the USA or not?

What do the Japanese think of the English? Answers from Japanese people only please, thank you.? So here's the situation. I'm thinking of going to live and work there, as I've always been fascinated and enchanted by the country/culture. I was also wanting to learn to speak the language before I go as I believe it is ignorant to go to another country and expect them to speak your language. Although I may not be fluent by the time I arrive I would probably be able to get by with the basics. My only worry is that there might be some resentment towards white English men because of our history with Japan, and our association with America. If you could help answer my question then I'd be very grateful. Also, I would love to learn more about the Japanese culture and traditions (as I want to try and integrate into Japanese society). So, if you have any tips then feel free to give them.

Why are the Japanese so much superior than the Chinese? I'm White but in my mind the Japanese are way more superior than the Chinese in terms of everything. Culture, food, traditions, women, music, movies, wealth, intelligence, and so on.

Japanese Culture Question (pertaining to children)? When I was growing up, my parents would mark my height on a door frame for every year older I got, I was wondering if there was the same type of tradition in Japan? I am trying to create an illustration depicting a small child who, no matter how much time passed, did not getting any taller. (Issunboushi for those of you familiar with the story) Thank you in advance!

If you are Native-American: Would you share a little bit of your language, culture & traditions with us ? It's so funny when many of you claim to be Native Americans... or 1/2 Native Americans 1/4 British, 1/4 Chinese, ... or 1/2 Irish 1/2 polish ...lol yeah sure! When is convenient for you we all are just " Americans", but wnen not, we are " Israeli-Americans, Lebanese-Americans, Syrian-Americans, Assyrian-Americans, Itralian-Americans, Mexican-Americans, Japanese-Americans or Native-Americans....LOL LOL

I need to learn Japanese, if you know of a site? I know I hate it when people come into our country and don't even try to speak our language. I am moving to Japan this summer, and was wondering if anyone knows of a good site that teaches you about their language, signs, cultures, traditions, table manners, etc. It would be much appreciated.

What are great books that give an overview of Japanese life? Along with just living in Japan and their traditions and culture. Everything a foreigner would love to know! ...please no Japan for Dummies, I don't care too much for them.

A question about Japanese symbols or perhaps culture or I don't know what..? I've been reading "Madame Butterfly" recently, and there are questions I'd like to ask. "She had a sword in her lap <...> It would have been very beautiful to a Japanese, to whom the sword is a soul. A golden dragon writhed about the superb scabbard. He had eyes of rubies, and held in his mouth a sphere of crystal which meant many mystical things to a Japanese." Does it really mean anything? "Then she placed the point of the weapon at that nearly nerveless spot in the neck known to every Japanese, and began to press it slowly inward." Does such a spot really exist? Where is it and why is it nerveless? And..is it still known to every Japanese? I mean, are the traditions of "dying with Honour when one can no longer live with Honour" still taught and do they play some role in Japanese life? I know I'm being chaotic, but I really want to know. Thank you :)

Some simple Japanese language/culture questions. please help!? Even if you don't know the answers to all, any help is appreciated! What is 七五三? Misoshiru is not an egg dish, right? たんじょうびパーティー If this means birthday party, or celebration, is it common for people to have them in Japan, or is not a tradition? In Japan, is the main meal of the day eaten in the evening? What is やきゅう, and is it popular in Japan? Are the "na" and "i" adjectives the only kind? THANK YOU! Does 七五三 involve going to shrines to pray for a happy and healthy life?

Is it helpful for an engineering student to learn Japanese language? I am an E&C engineering student doing III year.As I want to know the culture and tradition of Japanese and also I want to work as IT professional in Japan, I am interested in learing Japanese language. Is it helpful to get a job as IT professional?

World cultures and traditions? I was just wondering, any of you from a different area, or country or, other, or just if you know something: What other culture/traditions do countries/regions/etc have? For example : The Japanese have the tea ceremony. Just curious. Any kind of culuture, but preferabbly not American since I know enough about American culuture and tradition :)

Question is there a lot of differences in Asian Cultures What I meen is traditions are they different? like from Korean,Japanese,Chinese,Mongolian how do you find out more about them & show Respect to each culture & what they can share with me about learning more ?

Is there an organization who sponsors people who wants to tour to Japan? My daughter and I have so much respect for the Japanese people and their cultures and traditions. We both love their festivals, museums, and environmental programs. We want to experience the preparations of ramen. She wants to see the Hello Kitty Town and the Chocolate Museum. On her 18th birthday on January 27, 2009, my daughter wishes to be able to visit Japan together with the whole family, instead of holding a party.

Cultural difficulties being half Japanese half caucasian....? When I was living in Japan I had a lot of problems adjusting to the culture, even though I was half Japanese and fluent speaker of the language.... I already had exposure to Japanese culture at home in Australia from my Mother, ie - language, tradition, food.. Also yearly holidays to visit relatives in Japan... I'm considered a bit of an outspoken extrovert over here in Australia --- my close female friends in Japan used to have a little chuckle and joke around saying I was like a hardcore Yakuza chick... --- Would always say things like 'what are you staring at???' in English to rude onlookers or tell people off for smoking in non-smoking areas..... AT THE SAME TIME -- I was feeling a massive obligation to be part of the culture.... Anyone out there who has had similar problems being half and half of two completely different cultures...?? Extrovert vs Introvert... Thoughts....? Cheers. B XXX

My Filipina wife wanted to find work, but my mom said that I should not allow her...? I wrote earlier and said that "I am currently staying in Tokyo and I am the only son. My father (a Filipino) died several years ago and I am now living with my Japanese mom. I married recently to a Filipina here in Tokyo last year. Since I am the only son, I can't leave my mom. My problem is that my mom insisted that it is Japanese culture that wives should stay at home and do the household. My wife insisted she wanted to work. I said that I am willing to give her allowance instead. Just to prevent trouble with my mom. Do you think that my mom is right? Is it really Japanese tradition that women are prefered to be at home?" One of the poster, Ernesto, suggested I talk to my wife and ask her the reason why she wanted to work. She said that she need the money to send regularly every month back home to the Philippines for her parents and to send her sisters to college. I am now more confused. What would you advise?

What are the similiarities between Chinese American and Japanese American cultures? I need to know the level of assimilation and their relative lifestyles. I also need to know their political involvment. I need to know if they may have shared experience with racism, prejudice, and idscrimination. Do they have similar pursuits for education? What are their family traditions and their religious traditions?

Is it really important for understand lover's culture before marriage? My boyfriend is British and Spanish, and I'm Chinese-Japanese-Portuguese (Mostly Chinese). My mother is telling me to tell my boyfriend that he should learn about our culture more and try to learn some of our language (Cantonese). Would this be a good idea? Also, as an interesting fact, if you marry a Chinese person, you're also basically marrying their entire family. So it's a good idea to understand and learn about the culture, right? How should I bring it up? That "you need to learn it otherwise I can't really be with you"? That sounds cruel... that... "It's best to learn it to understand my culture better"? "It's important to understand each other's cultures and traditions to be more part of the family" ? Gah, I need a better way to bring it up without sounding like it's a ultimatum, which it shouldn't be, but it'd be nice that he would know some stuff. He is basically a typical Canadian with no solid differing identity with either background of his British or Spanish side. He has absolutely no influence of his Spanish side because he never grew up knowing his father, and his mother is born in Canada. He told me that he's not proud of being white though. He only has his mother (British), no one else. He doesn't have any other family members. If we do get married, the wedding will be majority Chinese and Asian culture. Mornings will be a Christian style wedding, while at night it has always been Chinese wedding style. How we approach is very different before the big morning wedding. Yesterday, he came over and did not accept the food that my mother offered him, my mother told me that it was very rude of him to not accept because it makes her feel like a bad host, so I told him and he agreed to eat, and then told me after that he was actually really starving the whole day, then I smacked him for that. So I think he NEEDs to know. He loves Chinese food or anything in particular related to Asian culture. Whenever we go to this mall, "Pacific Mall" (it's in Markham of Toronto), he just gets so amazed, and I get sick out of my mind just being there, because sometimes you just get really tired of your own culture and want to explore others... Like him. :)... He knows how to use chopsticks, but he doesn't know any manners, I teach him some manners that the guy must give the girl food from the table that he thinks will provide me a better health. You can put your elbows on the table! =D ... Bones and crap are left on the plate or a piece of paper.. and often on the table (I got scold at when I did that at a French place, putting bones on the table, also eating on a flat plate is WEIRD). Yesterday, it was Moon Cake Festival, so I gave him two cakes (4 cakes = $30-40) and a bunch of dumplings. I forgot to tell him how to eat the Moon Cake too ='( .. lol I'm very white-washed, I don't even know some stuff either.

How do I convince my mom to let me learn Japanese? Well this year(grade 8) I would like to learn Japanese. But every time we go to Books-a-Million I will pick up some books on learning Japanese and she will flat out say NO. She thinks that if your in America you MUST speak English and not any other language. This started back when my Great Grandma came over from Croatia(small European country). She was told that when she came over she must drop some of her customs, culture, and traditions to fit into the melting pot. I WILL really apply myself just like I do in school. I have learned some basic words through English subtitles of the Super Sentai Series. I am VERY SERIOUS about learning Japanese. Just like I am with my School work. If all else fails, I will just have to learn French, the only language she'll agree to, because that' what she took in High school. So ,yes, I have a backup plan. I make straight high A's & (sometimes) B's and am always learning by constantly over reading.

What do you think about traditional clothing as everyday wear? I think wearing traditional clothing as everyday wear is so easy and trouble free, no need to think about what to wear, etc. Such as some (well, I guess many) Indian ladies I saw everday, wearing their traditional clothing, walking on the street, doing usual things, they look very nice. I have to give them compliment that they so bond to their tradition and culture. I wish Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc can do this too. I did like to wear traditional clothing as everyday wear, but it would be funny or wired, since I am the only one wearing it, and people would think I am crazy or sth. I think Chinese Qing fu and Han fu is quite pretty. So do Korean and Japanese clothing. The Native Indian, wow, their clothing is real leather!! with beads decorations. no no, I don't mean that people who don't wear their traditional clothing ignore their tradition or doesn't like it. I just think those Indian ladies, wow, they wear their traditional clothing daily life.

Chinese American and Japanese American Cultures? What are the most significant similarities between the Chinese American and Japanese American [cultural] experiences? What are the differences? Choose ONE Topic and explain the similarities & differences. (Please include the topic you choose in your answer) - Level of assimilation - Relative lifestyle success in the United States - Political involvement - Experience with racism, prejudice, & discrimination - Pursuit of education - Role in economy - Continuance of family & religious traditions

Japanese Major or East Asian Studies? I am having trouble deciding whether East Asian Studies or Japanese is a major choice for me I want to couple it with an international business major so I can open up new career opportunities for myself. Anyway, I have a huge interest in Japan, but I am also interested in the rest of East Asia. Their cultural traditions, history, modern culture all fascinate me, but I am afraid East Asian studies major is too thinly spread and I will learn a smattering from a lot of things without ever becoming knowledgeable in one thing. I feel this is essential that one has a specialty when trying to find their niche in the job force. Do I have the wrong idea? I love Japan first and foremost (I am already in my 4th year of the language and I've been there twice, once on a homestay), so I was thinking of majoring in it and then taking elective classes to satisfy my interests in other East Asian countries and cultures. Do you think I have the right idea, or do you think I should pick East Asian Studies instead?

What are the different between old and recent Japanese people? What are the pro and con? Different after 1945? Did Japanese was poisoned by American and in which their culture and honor die? Or it was Japanese decision after evil actions, such as allying themselves with Hitler, the occupation of China, or Pearl Harbor in WW2? Were Japanese, from old time, just to WW2, were cold, evil and cruel? In the name of honor, I presume, let the prisoners commit suicide and the Japanese suddenly slice them, like in WW2? Today, because of anime, many Japanese people, young were disillusioned , in other word ignorant about the real world? Stuck in the fantasy world and make them irrational and too emotional? And live in the some called- American? Or their follow the own culture with some tradition of their own for many centuries? No offense, this idea was come from my friend, who hate Japanese culture of today with anime, which he despited, make those people disconnect from the real world, a concept of black and white with, exagerrated characters, stupid and sappy, which he hate emotion and the hero like typical American .However, he like the evil old Japanese culture, with cruelty, blood and sex, such as shunga, an erotic art form, and better version of hentai, which some people think it is a worst genre in anime. What do you think? Any different? Any regret of Japanese people of today? I know Japanese are feeling sorrow for their past of the mistake and lack of sense of honor in there mostly WW2? How about the rest during Edo to Meiji? Peaceful, pacifist, calm and real sense of honor? Suicide? Kamikaze? Any different? Or a sense of weakness? Still, I think is a misunderstanding race, yet many judge them badly? Certainly, back in WW2 and manga/anime, which many think their values are black and white, irrelevant, and don't reflect the real harsh world? And people disagree, mostly anime fan, believe are crazy and ignorant? Same goes to Japanese who cherrish anime/ manga and have a link with some of thier culture? Agree? No offense, I'm racist of Japanese but a victim by it. Why some many people of today like American hate Japanese or racist toward them? Why many hate anime and manga very much? Just to say, I love Japanese but I surround by people who hate Japanese hurt me, which I inspire very this culture. I know they are misunderstood by many. I have many knowledge about Japanese and what reason I watch anime and explore in the Internet, to learn. Still, I hate the history of Japanese back in WW2, it is painful and disgraced to see, why Japanese did that, sadly many can't forgive. My idiot friend, say Japanese were cool and evil do this, invasion China and kill cold-blooded to their enemy, cruel. The real old Japanese culture. PLus he say he like the old evil Japanese culture than the recent disconnected anime character of Japanese people of today. Which I find ridiculous. I need a real Japanese to give noting the truth base don my question. Their real culture, the different from old and new, the real personality and any link with anime to real life, before I tell the truth from my idiot friend. Plus, Japanese, like Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, have the same background.

hiya!! I have to do a project on Japan!! HELP PLEASE B4 WED!!? I need to include.. *Everyday family life *Being a traditional Japanese school girl *Tradition culture *Modern life *Typical working life in Japan *leisure time DONT HAVE TO INCLUDE EVERYTHING..THANKS SOOO MUCH...X

Am I weird for Loving Anime and Japanese culture? I just cant help it and I dont know why I wanna learn to speak japanese (currently am) I want to take kendo classes I love samurai and anime I love their food tradition people culture god....I love it all and I dont know why and when people ask me so why do u like that stuff so much I dont really have a solid answer I just do.....does anyone else feel this way? (I have family members make me feel odd or even weird for liking Japan so much) am I the only one out there thats like this? or am I just weird? sometimes I wonder if god meant for me to be in a different body (by that I mean someone japanese)

Christians: so I have this problem. Can you advise me? Ok, this is probably lame in your opinion; but it's become a real struggle for me. I really like Japanese culture and particularly the Samurai traditions, costumes, Bushido, etc. However, as a Christian, I realize that we must be separate from the world. How can I detour my interests and focus more on Christ?

How do you feel about Japan? You see, I earlier thought that Japan is the country which is situated in East, with rather strange understanding of the world. But after I started to learn Japanese I realized that it’s unique country with its own special traditions and culture. And even those hieroglyphs which seem so hard to learn depict the uniqueness of the country

Asians have got high culture and tradition but why do the guys look at asian women as sex object? take a look at this topic.http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index;_ylt=ApaAItOXq5MBWrMR1bg0IH_z7BR.;_ylv=3?qid=20090209151919AAWkDZo -the black guy complaining that japanese girls deny to take him because he is black while the middle eastern answerer ( off cause he is my friend because I been talked to on yahoo messenger) he married Filipino. he using the word "because the asker ( black guy) couldn't get laid to the japanese as he suspect. since other races like middle easterners, white could get asian girls but why the black guys couldn't get? ..........I just curious why do ppl talking like the only well-known thing about asian women is being sex object and all guys who visited asia are only interested about sex??

Who has been to Asian weddings? I am getting married to a Vietnamese guy, and I hear that usually the guests arrive anywhere from an hour to 2 hours late for the reception. I want to print to invitations- 5:00 for the Vietnamese side, and 6:00 for the American side in hopes that we start everything around 6:30. Do you think that will work? Also, should we order some or' dourvs (like eggrolls) for guests that actually show up on time? I don't want them waiting around starving. Typically in a Vietnamese wedding, they don't do the bouquet toss or garter. But we want to do that at our wedding. A lot of the older guests leave RIGHT after the cake, so should we do the toss before or after we cut the cake? Any other suggestions/things I should know about a Vietnamese/Asian wedding? My family is part Japanese, but the culture and traditions for weddings is way different than Vietnamese and Chinese culture and traditions.

The Japanese people place a high value on???? a. having many children b. education c. Western traditions d. Indias culture

Does anyone know a good book...? Does anyone know an easy to read and informative book that discusses about Japanese business etiquette and ethics of the 21th century? I'm not looking for a book on Japanese culture, but business etiquette like how the Japanese do business and traditions they must do. I'm also not looking for a novel, but more like a textbook-like book; a book that has no plot.

How did Japanese colonization of Korea affect JAPAN? There are a lot of articles that talk about how Japanese colonization of Korea in early 20th century affected Korea, such as modernization or decrease of Korean traditions. But how did Japanese colonization of Korea affect Japan? Like, did Japan's colonization of another country affect Japan's culture in any way? If you can direct me to articles or websites, that would be appreciated. Thanks!

Elementary School Graduation? Hi, I know this sounds kind of silly since I am only going into high-school, but I would really like to plan an international trip for the 2008 summer, preferablly in mid August. I am planning on going with my Mom. I love international traditions and cultures. Where do you think I should go: London, England, Italy, or Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo would be my first choice, but I am also wondering if it would be appropriate for me and if communication between English and Japanese is difficult. If you think Tokyo is fairly appropriate, please give me some safety and communication tips. Thank You So Very Much. Truly, rer_3263 P.S. Flying is no problem as I am obsessed with aviation and want to be a pilot!!!!!

What about Skeptics of Buddhism, like us ? Please Patiently read everything.? Buddhism for beginners (and sceptical Westerners) Introduction Now that Buddhism is such a fast-growing religion in the West, a lot of Westerners are attracted to its rational approach and rejection of an all-powerful deity. But all too often we Westerners quickly get stuck on the idea of rebirth and the various cultural traditions that have become a part of Buddhism in Asia. I've been there myself - wondering if rebirth is for real, if karma is scientific, if Buddhism is rational, why I have to bow to a statue, and so on - and I almost gave up at one point. I've noticed also that some Westerners pop up on the Internet looking for others who've converted to Buddhism, hoping they can discover the trick to becoming a Buddhist despite a materialist upbringing. So this page is a mixture of useful resources and my own personal experiences in fully accepting Dharma as a way of life. I hope it will be of some use to others on the same path. •Where should I start? •What is Buddhism? •Are rebirth and karma for real? •What is our purpose in life? •What's the difference between Theravada and Mahayana? •Which tradition should I choose? •How do I become a Buddhist? •Which are good books to read? Where should I start? If there's one place you should not start, it's reincarnation/rebirth. Newcomers to Buddhism tend to open every book at the section on rebirth because what happens to us after we die is all-important in the monotheistic culture we come from. But the Buddha wasn't teaching rebirth as the goal of life. He said many times, "I teach suffering, and the way out of suffering." That was his message, to make nirvana (Pali: nibbana) - the end of suffering - the goal. So the place to start is with the basics, the Four Noble Truths and a practice aimed at reducing suffering. If this seems worthwhile to you, you're on your way. In fact, the best way to start is by doing a lot of reading. You need to know about the basic principles of Buddhism, its founder, its history, the different traditions, and what it can do for you. Even though there's a lot of stuff available free on the Internet, I still think a well-written book is the best way to go. For all of the above, try John Snelling's The Buddhist Handbook : A Complete Guide to Buddhist Schools, Teaching, Practice, and History or Gill Farrer-Halls' The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Buddhist Wisdom (which is also a handbook). These two books are both excellent primers to start off with. There's also a short overview titled What is Buddhism? from the Buddhist Society of Western Australia. For inspiring books written by Western monks who really understand Westerners' problems, try Ajahn Sumedho's The Mind and the Way : Buddhist Reflections of Life or Ajahn Jagaro's True Freedom, which is available online: •Chapter 1: True Freedom •Chapter 2: Compassion - The Natural Expression of Awakening •Chapter 3: Buddhism and God •Chapter 4: Beyond Boredom and Depression •Chapter 5: Buddhism and Vegetarianism •Chapter 6: Death and Dying Another book that's a must-read is Thich Nhat Hanh's little-known masterpiece, Old Path, White Clouds : Walking in the Footsteps of the Buddha, a beautiful and easy-to-read story of the Buddha's life drawn from accounts in the Pali Canon and illustrated with line drawings. For a thorough explanation of the nuts and bolts of the teachings and practice, check out Ayya Khema's Being Nobody, Going Nowhere : Meditations on the Buddhist Path (very good at showing how ego rules our lives) or Henepola Gunaratana's Eight Mindful Steps to Happiness : Walking the Buddha's Path. There are a lot of good books on Dharma (Pali: Dhamma), but I'd recommend starting of with the original Theravada Buddhism and checking out the Mahayana traditions like Zen and Tibetan when you have a grasp of the basics. What you read will depend on what particular problems brought you to Buddhism in the first place. Some authors, the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh, for example, have written books on anger management. But it's important to practise too. In addition to following the Five Precepts, try practising Right Speech, generosity, compassion, being less self-centred, being less addicted to pleasures of the senses and being less concerned with possessions. And once you have a good grasp of the basic teachings and different traditions, it will be time to start meditating. Your situation in life may affect your practice and progress. If you live near a temple or Buddhist group, you'll be able to listen to Dharma talks, make Dharma friends and be with a community of like-minded people. If you don't, there are always the Internet and Buddhist forums such as E-Sangha and the Buddhist Society of Western Australia. I personally live in a Buddhist country where the majority of people don't understand the deeper teachings of Buddhism, so their focus is on making merit for a better rebirth and participating in ceremonies. So I rely a lot on the Internet, on Amazon and a few friends. I rarely go to temples. What is Buddhism? The following article is from the website of the Buddhist Society of Western Australia. The author explains karma and rebirth in the traditionally accepted way and is somewhat sceptical about the origins of the Mahayana sutras, but otherwise it's an excellent overview of Buddhism. Introduction For more than 2,500 years, the religion we know today as Buddhism has been the primary inspiration behind many successful civilizations, the source of great cultural achievements and a lasting and meaningful guide to the very purpose of life for millions of people. Today, large numbers of men and women from diverse backgrounds throughout our world are following the Teachings of the Buddha. So who was the Buddha and what are His Teachings? The Buddha The man who was to become the Buddha was born Siddhattha Gotama around 2,600 years ago as a Prince of a small territory near what is now the Indian-Nepalese border. Though he was raised in splendid comfort, enjoying aristocratic status, no amount of material pleasure could satisify the enquiring and philosophic nature of the young man. At the age of 29 he left palace and family to search for a deeper meaning in the secluded forests and remote mountains of North-East India. He studied under the wisest religious teachers and philosophers of his time, learning all they had to offer, but he found it was not enough. He then struggled alone with the path of self- mortification, taking that practice to the extremes of asceticism, but still to no avail. Then, at the age of 35, on the full moon night of May, he sat beneath the branches of what is now known as the Bodhi Tree, in a secluded grove by the banks of the river Neranjara, and developed his mind in deep but luminous, tranquil meditation. Using the extraordinary clarity of such a mind with its sharp penetrative power generated by states of deep inner stillness, he turned his attention to investigate upon the hidden meanings of mind, universe and life. Thus he gained the supreme Enlightenment experience and from that time on he was known as the Buddha. His Enlightenment consisted of the most profound and all-embracing insight into the nature of mind and all phenomena. This Enlightenment was not a revelation from some divine being, but a discovery made by Himself and based on the deepest level of meditation and the clearest experience of the mind. It meant that He was no longer subject to craving, ill-will and delusion but was free from their shackles, having attained the complete ending of all forms of inner suffering and acquired unshakeable peace. The Teachings of the Buddha Having realized the goal of Perfect Enlightenment, the Buddha spent the next 45 years teaching a Path which, when diligently followed, will take anyone regardless of race, class or gender to that same Perfect Enlightenment. The Teachings about this Path are called the Dhamma, literally meaning "the nature of all things" or "the truth underlying existence". It is beyond the scope of this pamphlet to present a thorough description of all of these Teachings but the following 7 topics will give you an overview of what the Buddha taught: 1. The way of Inquiry The Buddha warned strongly against blind faith and encouraged the way of truthful inquiry. In one of His best known sermons, the Kalama Sutta, the Buddha pointed out the danger in fashioning one's beliefs merely on the following grounds: on hearsay, on tradition, because many others say it is so, on the authority of ancient scriptures, on the word of a supernatural being, or out of trust in one's teachers, elders, or priests. Instead one maintains an open mind and thoroughly investigates one's own experience of life. When one sees for oneself that a particular view agrees with both experience and reason, and leads to the happiness of one and all, then one should accept that view and live up to it! This principle, of course, applies to the Buddha's own Teachings. They should be considered and inquired into using the clarity of mind born of meditation. Only when one sees these Teachings for oneself in the experience of insight, do these Teachings become one's Truth and give blissful liberation. The traveller on the way of inquiry needs the practice of tolerance. Tolerance does not mean that one embraces every idea or view but means one doesn't get angry at what one can't accept. Further along the journey, what one once disagreed with might later be seen to be true. So in the spirit of tolerant inquiry, here are some more of the basic Teachings as the Buddha gave them. 2. The Four Noble Truths The main Teaching of the Buddha focuses not on philosophical speculations about a Creator God or the origin of the universe, or on a heaven world ever after. The Teaching, instead, is centred on the down-to-earth reality of human suffering and the urgent need to find lasting relief from all forms of discontent. The Buddha gave the simile of a man shot by a poison-tipped arrow who, before he would call a doctor to treat him, demanded to know first who shot the arrow and where the arrow was made and of what and by whom and when and where ... this foolish man would surely die before his questions could be well answered. In the same way, the Buddha said, the urgent need of our existence is to find lasting relief from recurrent suffering, which robs us of happiness and leaves us in strife. Philosophical speculations are of secondary importance and, anyway, they are best left until after one has well trained the mind in meditation to the stage where one has the ability to examine the matter clearly and find the Truth for oneself. Thus, the central Teaching of the Buddha, around which all other teachings revolve, is the Four Noble Truths: 1.That all forms of being, human and otherwise, are afflicted with suffering. 2.That the cause of this suffering is Craving, born of the illusion of a soul (see below, note 7). 3.That this suffering has a lasting end in the Experience of Enlightenment (Nibbana) which is the complete letting go of the illusion of soul and all consequent desire and aversion. 4.That this peaceful and blissful Enlightenment is achieved through a gradual training, a Path that is called the Middle Way or the Eightfold Path. It would be mistaken to label this Teaching as 'pessimistic' on the grounds that it begins by centring on suffering. Rather, Buddhism is 'realistic' in that it unflinchingly faces up to the truth of life's many sufferings and it is 'optimistic' in that it shows a final end of the problem of suffering - Nibbana, Enlightenment in this very life! Those who have achieved this ultimate peace are the inspiring examples who demonstrate once and for all that Buddhism is far from pessimistic, but it is a Path to true Happiness. 3. The Middle Way or Eightfold Path The Way to end all suffering is called the Middle Way because it avoids the two extremes of sensual indulgence and self-mortification. Only when the body is in reasonable comfort but not over-indulged has the mind the clarity and strength to meditate deeply and discover the Truth. This Middle Way consists of the diligent cultivation of Virtue, Meditation and Wisdom, which is explained in more detail as the Noble Eightfold Path. 1.Right Understanding 2.Right Thought 3.Right Speech 4.Right Action 5.Right Livelihood 6.Right Effort 7.Right Mindfulness 8.Right Concentration Right Speech, Action and Livelihood constitute the training in Virtue or Morality. For a practising Buddhist it consists of maintaining the five Buddhist Precepts, which are to refrain from: 1.Deliberately causing the death of any living being; 2.Intentionally taking for one's own the property of another; 3.Sexual misconduct, in particular adultery; 4.Lying and breaking promises; 5.Drinking alcohol or taking stupefying drugs which lead to lack of mindfulness. Right Effort, Mindfulness and Concentration refer to the practice of Meditation, which purifies the mind through the experience of blissful states of inner stillness and empowers the mind to penetrate the meaning of life through profound moments of insight. Right Understanding and Thought are the manifestation of Buddha-Wisdom which ends all suffering, transforms the personality and produces unshakeable serenity and tireless compassion. According to the Buddha, without perfecting the practice of Virtue it is impossible to perfect Meditation, and without perfecting Meditation it is impossible to arrive at Enlightenment Wisdom. Thus the Buddhist Path is a Gradual Path, a Middle Way consisting of Virtue, Meditation and Wisdom as explained in the Noble Eightfold Path leading to happiness and liberation. 4. Kamma Kamma means 'action'. The Law of Kamma means that there are inescapable results of our actions. There are deeds of body, speech or mind that lead to others' harm, one's own harm, or to the harm of both. Such deeds are called bad (or 'unwholesome') kamma. They are usually motivated by greed, hatred or delusion. Because they bring painful results, they should not be done. There are also deeds of body, speech or mind that lead to others' well being, one's own well being, or to the well being of both. Such deeds are called good (or 'wholesome') kamma. They are usually motivated by generosity, compassion or wisdom. Because they bring happy results, they should be done as often as possible. Thus much of what one experiences is the result of one's own previous kamma. When misfortune occurs, instead of blaming someone else, one can look for any fault in one's own past conduct. If a fault is found, the experience of its consequences will make one more careful in the future. When happiness occurs, instead of taking it for granted, one can look to see if it is the result of good kamma. If so, the experience of its pleasant results will encourage more good kamma in the future. The Buddha pointed out that no being whatsoever, divine or otherwise, has any power to stop the consequences of good and bad kamma. The fact that one reaps just what one sows gives to the Buddhist a greater incentive to avoid all forms of bad kamma while doing as much good kamma as possible. Though one cannot escape the results of bad kamma, one can lessen their effect. A spoon of salt mixed in a glass of pure water makes the whole very salty, whereas the same spoon of salt mixed in a freshwater lake hardly changes the taste of the water. Similarly, the result of a bad kamma in a person habitually doing only a small amount of good kamma is painful indeed, whereas the result of the same bad kamma in a person habitually doing a great deal of good kamma is only mildly felt. This natural Law of Kamma becomes the force behind, and reason for, the practice of morality and compassion in our society. 5. Rebirth The Buddha remembered clearly many of His past lives. Even today, many Buddhist monks, nuns and others also remember their past lives. Such a strong memory is a result of deep meditation. For those who remember their past life, Rebirth is an established fact which puts this life in a meaningful perspective. The Law of Kamma can only be understood in the framework of many lifetimes, because it sometimes takes this long for Kamma to bear its fruit. Thus Kamma and Rebirth offer a plausible explanation to the obvious inequalities of birth; why some are born into great wealth whereas others are born into pathetic poverty; why some children enter this world healthy and full-limbed whereas others enter deformed and diseased... The fruits of bad Kamma are not regarded as a punishment for evil deeds but as lessons from which to learn, for example, how much better to learn about the need for generosity than to be reborn among the poor! Rebirth takes place not only within this human realm. The Buddha pointed out that the realm of human beings is but one among many. There are many separate heavenly realms and grim lower realms, too, realms of the animals and realms of the ghosts. Not only can human beings go to any of these realms in the next life, but we can come from any of these realms into our present life. This explains a common objection against Rebirth that argues "How can there be Rebirth when there are ten times as many people alive today than there were 50 years ago?" The answer is that people alive today have come from many different realms. Understanding that we can come and go between these different realms, gives us more respect and compassion for the beings in these realms. It is unlikely, for example, that one would exploit animals when one has seen the link of Rebirth that connects them with us. 6. No Creator God The Buddha pointed out that no God or priest nor any other kind of being has the power to interfere in the working out of someone else's Kamma. Buddhism, therefore, teaches the individual to take full responsibility for themselves. For example, if you want to be wealthy then be trustworthy, diligent and frugal, or if you want to live in a heaven realm then always be kind to others. There is no God to ask favours from, or to put it another way there is no corruption possible in the workings of Kamma. Do Buddhists believe that a Supreme Being created the universe? Buddhists would first ask which universe do you mean? This present universe, from the moment of the 'big bang' up to now, is but one among countless millions in Buddhist cosmology. The Buddha gave an estimate of the age of a single universe-cycle of around 37,000 million years, which is quite plausible when compared to modern astrophysics. After one universe- cycle ends another begins, again and again, according to impersonal law. A Creator God is redundant in this scheme. No being is a Supreme Saviour, according to the Buddha, because whether God, human, animal or whatever, all are subject to the Law of Kamma. Even the Buddha had no power to save. He could only point out the Truth so that the wise could see it for themselves. Everyone must take responsibility for their own future well-being, and it is dangerous to give that responsibility to another. 7. The Illusion of Soul The Buddha taught that there is no soul, no essential and permanent core to a living being. Instead, that which we call a 'living being', human or other, can be seen to be but a temporary coming together of many activities and parts - when complete it is called a 'living being', but after the parts separate and the activities cease it is not called a 'living being' anymore. Like an advanced computer assembled of many parts and activities, only when it is complete and performs coherent tasks is it called a 'computer', but after the parts are disconnected and the activities cease it is no longer called a 'computer'. No essential permanent core can be found which we can truly call 'the computer', just so, no essential permanent core can be found which we can call 'the soul'. Yet Rebirth still occurs without a soul. Consider this simile: on a Buddhist shrine one candle, burnt low, is about to expire. A monk takes a new candle and lights it from the old. The old candle dies, the new candle burns bright. What went across from the old candle to the new? There was a causal link but no thing went across! In the same way, there was a causal link between your previous life and your present life, but no soul has gone across. Indeed, the illusion of a soul is said by the Buddha to be the root cause of all human suffering. The illusion of 'soul' manifests as the 'Ego'. The natural unstoppable function of the Ego is to control. Big Egos want to control the world, average Egos try to control their immediate surroundings of home, family and workplace, and almost all Egos strive to control what they take to be their own body and mind. Such control manifests as desire and aversion, it results in a lack of both inner peace and outer harmony. It is this Ego that seeks to acquire possessions, manipulate others and exploit the environment. Its aim is its own happiness but it invariably produces suffering. It craves for satisfaction but it experiences discontent. Such deep- rooted suffering cannot come to an end until one sees, through deep and powerful meditation, that the idea 'me and mine' is no more than a mirage. These seven topics are a sample of what the Buddha taught. Now, to complete this brief sketch of Buddhism, let's look at how these Teachings are practised today. Types of Buddhism One could say that there is only one type of Buddhism and that is the huge collection of Teachings that were spoken by the Buddha. The original Teachings are found in the 'Pali Canon', the ancient scripture of Theravada Buddhism, which is widely accepted as the oldest reliable record of the Buddha's words. Theravada Buddhism is the dominant religion in Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia and Laos. Between 100 to 200 years after the passing away of the Buddha, the Sangha (the monastic community) split over the political question of 'Who runs the Sangha?' A controversy over some monastic rules was decided by a committee of Arahats (fully Enlightened monks or nuns) against the views of the majority of monks. The disgruntled majority resented what they saw as the excessive influence of the small number of Arahats in monastery affairs. From then on, over a period of several decades, the disaffected majority partially succeeded in lowering the exalted status of the Arahat and raising in its place the ideal of the Bodhisattva (an unenlightened being training to be a Buddha). Previously unknown scriptures, supposedly spoken by the Buddha and hidden in the dragon world, then appeared giving a philosophical justification for the superiority of the Bodhisattva over the allegedly 'selfish' Arahat. This group of monks and nuns were first known as the 'Maha Sangha', meaning 'the great (part) of the monastic community'. Later, after impressive development, they called themselves the 'Mahayana', the 'Greater Vehicle' while quite disparagingly calling the older Theravada 'Hinayana', the 'Inferior Vehicle'. Mahayana still retains most of the original teachings of the Buddha (in the Chinese scriptures these are known as the 'Agama' and in the Tibetan version as the 'Kangyur') but these core teachings were mostly overwhelmed by layers of expansive interpretations and wholly new ideas. The Mahayana of China, still vibrant in Taiwan, reflects an earlier phase of this development, the Mahayana of Vietnam, Korea and Japan (mostly Zen) is a later development, and the Mahayana of Tibet and Mongolia is a much later development still. Buddhism's relevance to the world today Today, Buddhism continues to gain ever wider acceptance in many lands far beyond its original home. Here in Australia, many Australians through their own careful choice are adopting Buddhism's peaceful, compassionate and responsible ways. The Buddhist Teaching of the Law of Kamma offers our society a just and incorruptible foundation and reason for the practice of a moral life. It is easy to see how a wider embracing of the Law of Kamma would lead any country towards a stronger, more caring and virtuous society. The Teaching of Rebirth places this present short lifetime of ours in a broader perspective, giving more meaning to the vital events of birth and death. The understanding of Rebirth removes so much of the tragedy and grief surrounding death and turns one's attention to the quality of a lifetime, rather than its mere length. From the very beginning, the practice of meditation has been at the very heart of the Buddhist Way. Today, meditation grows increasingly popular as the proven benefits to both mental and physical well being become more widely known. When stress is shown to be such a major cause of human suffering, the quieting practice of meditation becomes ever more valued. Today's world is too small and vulnerable to live angry and alone, thus the need for tolerance, love and compassion is so very important. These qualities of mind, essential for happiness are formally developed in Buddhist meditation and then diligently put into practice in everyday life. Forgiveness and gentle tolerance, harmlessness and peaceful compassion are well known trademarks of Buddhism, they are given freely and broadly to all kinds of beings, including animals of course, and also, most importantly, to oneself. There is no place for dwelling in guilt or self-hatred in Buddhism, not even a place for feeling guilty about feeling guilty! Teachings and practices such as these are what bring about qualities of gentle kindness and unshakeable serenity, identified with the Buddhist religion for 25 centuries and sorely needed in today's world. In all its long history, no war has ever been fought in the name of Buddhism. It is this peace and this tolerance, growing out of a profound yet reasonable philosophy, which makes Buddhism so vitally relevant to today's world. Are rebirth and karma for real? Is rebirth for real - either as a human or in one of the other realms? This is the question most Westerners ask as soon as they become interested in Buddhism. Karma (Pali: Kamma) - the law of cause and effect - operates across multiple lifetimes, but where's the proof that there is any life other than the current one? It's a complex subject and each tradition has its own explanation. It isn't uncommon for different teachers in the same tradition to have a different take on rebirth. One thing's for sure, there is no scientific proof of rebirth (yet). There are rational explanations, but they all rest on unprovable assumptions. One way to approach the question of rebirth is suggested by Thanissaro Bhikkhu, who says, "You don't have to believe in rebirth, you just have to take it as a working hypothesis." Other teachers, such as Ajahn Summedho, have a similar view, that since we can never know what will happen after death, it makes sense to practise Dharma (Pali: Dhamma) and live this life in the best way possible. Some well-known monks, Ajahn Brahm and P.A. Payutto among them, say that when meditators reach the third or fourth jhana (level of absorbtion) they are able to "read their past lives" as the Buddha did and experience the truth of rebirth. But this ability is by no means universal, even among meditation masters. Another explanation championed by Buddhadasa, Thailand's most revered monk, is that rebirth in a series of physical bodies is "conventional talk" to make the subject understandable for the masses, but in "Dharma talk" what the Buddha really meant was that each life was the arising of the ego in the mind. So we experience "death" and "rebirth" (of the ego) many times each day. Similarly, the six realms of existence all correspond to states of mind. In the same way, the cause and effect of karma can be observed in our own mental states - when we do good deeds it results in a wholesome mental state, when we do bad deeds, we experience unwholesome mental states. This rational explanation of rebirth and karma doesn't necessarily exclude the traditional view. It augments it. What works for me is to take both of them as working hypotheses and practise accordingly. Recalling the Buddha's story about the man shot with a poisoned arrow, if we need to have every detail of the teaching proved to us at the outset, we'll be dead before we start practising. What is our purpose in life? The traditional answer to this is that our purpose is to attain nirvana and stop the endless cycle of rebirths and suffering. But the idea of a general purpose for mankind suggests that someone or something created that purpose, which in turn suggests an omnipotent deity. The way I think of it is that we have no pre-ordained purpose. We evolved, and here we are. Because we also evolved language and conceptual thinking, we got stuck with this concept of a self, an ego that makes us feel separate from everything else. The ego needs constant reassurance of its importance, which is why we cling to our views and defend them fanatically, and why we are constantly criticizing others. Our ego rules our lives. It is terrified of being snuffed out. We handle this in different ways. Some of us have lots of kids so we can feel that a part of us lives on forever through our descendants. Some of us perform heroic deeds so that our names will live on in history forever. Some of us get onto Ripley's Believe It Or Not with the world's longest moustache or beating the world record for smashing melons with our head, or some such nonsense, so that we'll achieve digital immortality. Some of us cling to the idea that a god will give us eternal life in some form after death. For those of us who don't find this pseudo-immortality or unguaranteed immortality satisfying, there's a need to create our own purpose in life. This is where Buddhism fits the bill nicely. Instead of being ruled by the ego and its fears, get rid of it! Being rid of the ego and the suffering it brings is what Ajahn Jagaro called "True Freedom" - a very appealing idea for all of us. If we don't achieve true freedom in this life, we should get another chance in a future life. But simply diminishing the ego and increasing freedom in this life seems like a worthwhile purpose to me. What's the difference between Theravada and Mahayana? To preserve the monastic order, the Buddha set down 227 rules for a bhikkhu (monk) to observe and 311 for a bhikkhuni (nun). Before his death (known as parinirvana) he said that some minor rules could be changed. Within a short time of his passing away there was disagreement over what could be changed and different sects emerged. The more reformist sects later called themselves Mahayana (greater vehicle) and referred to the conservative sects as Hinayana (lesser vehicle). The only conservative sect remaining today is Theravada, which is prevalent in Sri Lanka, Burma and Thailand. Theravada recognises the Pali Canon as its scriptures and a variety of ancient Theravadin commentaries. Whereas Theravada spread to the south and east, Mahayana moved to the northwest through what is now Pakistan and Afghanistan and then across Central Asia to China, Tibet, Vietnam, Korea and Japan. For historical reasons, the language of Mahayana scriptures was Sanskrit and that of Theravada was Pali. Hence the difference in spelling of some common Buddhist terms: Nirvana/Nibbana, Sutra/Sutta, Karma/Kamma, Dharma/Damma, etc. Westerners are more familiar with Mahayana Sanskrit terms. Mahayana also has its own scriptures in addition to the Pali Canon, the most important of which is the Lotus Sutra. These sutras are purported to be the Buddha's secret "higher" teachings, which were handed down only to those who were ready for them - an idea emphasised at the beginning of the Lotus Sutra. Apart from a modified monastic code which made monasticism possible in harsh environments such as Tibet, Mahayana emphasises the Bodhisattva Ideal, where a man vows not to achieve final enlightenment until all sentient beings have been saved. So anyone helping others to achieve enlightenment can be considered a bodhisattva. In Theravada, the term bodhisattva usually refers only to the historical Buddha in his previous lives. Historically, some Mahayanists consider Theravadins to be selfish for seeking enlightenment only for themselves, while some Theravadins consider Mahayanists to have deviated from what the Buddha taught. The various sutras and sects of Mahayana reflect different ways of reaching enlightenment appropriate for different people with different levels of ability. Because of this, a number of "mythical" buddhas and bodhisattvas are revered and used as objects of meditation. Theravadins revere only the historical Buddha and only his image is seen in temples. Mahayana tends to emphasise the concept of sunyata (void-ness) in its teachings and tends to have a more specific idea of what passes from rebirth to rebirth (consciousness, comprising awareness and memory). Personally, I found that the more I read about Mahayana and the Tibetan tradition known as Vajrayana, the more I accepted that all sects are going in the same direction and there is no point in considering any one of them better than another. Which tradition should I choose? I suggest reading about Theravada first and then investigating the other traditions to see which suits you best. Your decision may also depend on your Buddhist friends and what is available where you live. As far as I know, the main traditions known in the West are Theravada, Tibetan, Zen, Pure Land and Nichiren. One myth that seems to have grown up over the years is that with Mahayana one can reach enlightenment in one lifetime whereas with Theravada it takes aeons. This notion seems to have been pushed by the Chinese Zen patriarchs, in particular Huang Po, as illustrated in The Zen Teaching of Huang Po. In modern times the idea has been spread by influential author-scholar John Blofeld, who translated Huang Po's works into English and wrote several excellent books on Buddhism. But it all seems pretty ridiculous because how could anyone know how many lives ago any particular person started consciously working towards enlightenment? Blofeld followed Zen and then Tibetan Buddhist Tantrism, describing both as the "Short Path." However, it isn't difficult to see that any tradition that emphasises meditation - as the Buddha did - will be a short path. In the past century, the Thai Forest Tradition is a good example of a Theravadin tradition that produced a number of enlightened masters. According to Blofeld, Mahayana and Tibetan Buddhism in particular offer ways of practice to suit people at every level. After all, not everyone has an aptitude for meditation. A lot of people prefer something simpler, such as praying, chanting, various forms of devotion and pilgrimages. He describes Zen and Theravada as "formless," meaning the practice is mostly just you and your mind. But in fact there's a lot more to both than just meditation. Tibetan Buddhism seems to attract Westerners because there are now a lot of Tibetan lamas and monasteries in the West, because of the charisma of the Dalai Lama, because it can be a "Short Path," because of its reputation for developing psychic powers and because of its many varied methods of practice. However, Tibetan Buddhism has absorbed much of the ancient, shamanistic Bon religion of Tibet, so it's wise to read up on Tibet thoroughly before committing to it. Zen attracts Westerners because it's something of a "back to basics" tradition with an emphasis on meditation and very little ritual. Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha, is revered rather than the other mythical buddhas and bodhisattvas of the Mahayana sutras. Although it originated in China, the type of Zen practised in the West is mostly Japanese. Theravada attracts Western practicioners because it is seen as the oldest and purest form of Buddhism, one that reveres only Sakyamuni and in theory concentrates on meditation. The Thai Forest Tradition which developed in the late 1800s was an effort to practise exactly as the Buddha did, wandering in the jungle and meditating in caves. Although the jungle is largely gone now, a number of Westerners joined Ajahn Chah's international monastery in the 1970s and later spread the practice in other countries: Ajahn Jagaro and Ajahn Brahm in Australia, Thanissaro Bhikkhu in the USA and Ajahn Sumedho in the UK. For a brief look at the origins of this tradition, see Thanissaro Bhikkhu's Customs of the Noble Ones. For a more detailed treatment, read Forest Recollections. Pure Land was once widespread in China and is still practised among Chinese around the world. A refined form of Pure Land (Jodo and Shin Jodo) developed in Japan and has spread to the West. Pure Land involves purifying the mind by chanting the name of the Amitabha (Amida) Buddha to gain help in reaching a realm after death from where it is easy to reach enlightenment. On a deeper level, Pure Land equals pure mind and Amitabha represents our own qualities rather than an external saviour. Pure Land is sometimes combined with Zen practice. Nichiren is a homegrown Japanese tradition advocating chanting of a phrase hailing the Lotus Sutra. An offshoot of Nichiren is the lay organisation, Sokka Gakai International. There are a few Buddhist sects and organisations that are controversial in some way, usually because of their founder/leader or his particular beliefs. Before getting involved with Sokka Gakai (SGI), the Friends of the Western Buddhist Order (FWBO), Shugden or Diamond Way (Karma Kagyu), you might want to google for information about their background. How do I become a Buddhist? Although there is a ceremony of taking the Three Refuges (the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha), there isn't any "conversion" involved and you aren't required to renounce any other religion or beliefs. In fact, it seems to be more of a social statement to show others that you have become a Buddhist. In my opinion, once you accept the Buddha's teachings as a way of life and try to follow the Five Precepts for lay people, you're a Buddhist. For me, this involved a lot of reading Dharma and listening to Dharma talks on the Internet. Rather than read the scriptures (which are often difficult), I chose books by monks and nuns who already had a deep knowledge of Dharma through study and practice, and who had a talent for explaining it. I looked at how Buddhism developed over the millennia and decided to start off with Theravada, which is the original form of Buddhism based on the Pali Canon. Later, I investigated the various Mahayana traditions too. It was obvious to me that reducing the power of the ego to control our lives was a foundation of Buddhism. For my practice, I concentrated on Right Speech (a component of the Noble Eightfold Path) because I thought it would give the fastest results. I expected if I started being nice to people, eventually they'd be nicer to me. That happened, but much more than that. I found myself examining my intentions every time I felt like defending my views, arguing with someone, contradicting them, criticizing them, comparing myself with them or judging them in any way at all. Pretty soon it was obvious that much of what I said or did was designed to boost my sense of self-worth and that "true freedom" was to escape this tyranny of the ego. Later I started meditating, since this is the only way to experience the truth of the teaching rather than just understanding them intellectually. Even though the majority of people born into Buddhism may not meditate, it's essential for the serious Buddhist. Some Westerners have a problem with whether they are or aren't a Buddhist, usually because they still have some belief in god or because they haven't come to believe in rebirth. The following talk by Ajahn Jagaro, a Western monk of the Thai Forest Tradition, will be helpful for anyone asking himself, "Am I a Buddhist?" ________________________________________ Am I a Buddhist? by Ajahn Jagaro Teaching people who have only recently encountered Buddhism I am often asked the question "How do you become a Buddhist?" or "How do you know when you are a Buddhist?" This type of enquiry is indeed healthy and to be encouraged not only amongst those new to Buddhism but also for people born and raised as Buddhists. So go ahead and ask yourself: "Am I a Buddhist?" I expect that there will be many who will answer "Yes" and those who say "No", but I wonder how many will be thinking "Oh ... Ahm,.. I don't know." So let us contemplate this business of being a Buddhist a bit more. To begin our enquiry it may be worthwhile to know what the Buddha said on the matter. The following episode is taken from the Buddhist scriptures (Anguttara Nikaya, Vol IV): "Once, the Lord dwelt amongst the Sakyans in the Banyan Tree Monastery at Kapilavatthu, and while there, Mahanama the Sakyan came to him and asked; "How, Lord, does one become a lay disciple?" "When one has taken refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha, then one is a lay disciple". "How, Lord, is a lay disciple virtuous?" "When a lay disciple abstains from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying and drinking intoxicants, then he is virtuous." Here the Buddha clearly states that by taking refuge in the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha one becomes a disciple or, in modern terminology, a Buddhist. The classical formula of going for refuge, which has been passed down from the time of the Buddha is as follows; Buddham Saranam Gacchami (I go for refuge to the Buddha) Dhammam Saranam Gacchami (I go for refuge to the Dhamma) Sangham Saranam Gacchami (I go for refuge to the Sangha) However one does not become a Buddhist through the mere repetition of these words nor by the performance of any other ceremony ritual or initiation. On the other hand, though one has not performed any ceremony or ritual, one may still be a Buddhist. Put simply, this means that no one can make you a Buddhist nor can anyone stop you from being a Buddhist. It is a volitional choice that one makes when one has sufficient confidence in the Teacher and the Teaching. In the commentaries to the scriptures it explains this as, "It is an act of consciousness devoid of defilements, motivated by confidence in and reverence for the Triple Gem"... Here I would like to relate something of my own experience to help explain this point. When I first came in contact with Buddhism I did not consider myself a religious person. If anything, I thought of myself as an atheist and felt that religion had little relevance to real life. However, I did find the Buddha's Teachings and in particular the practice of meditation very appealing. I had a desire to find out more about it and this lead me into a monastery where I was eventually ordained as a monk. One day a young Thai student, wanting to practise his English, casually asked me "Are you a Buddhist?" But in my mind I wondered whether or not I was a Buddhist. I must confess that it was a strange position to be in - a Buddhist monk who doesn't know whether he is a Buddhist! Yet that situation persisted for over a year before the meaning of both the question and the answer became clear to me. During that year as I continued to study and practise the Dhamma I began to feel very comfortable with the teaching and increasingly confident that this was the way for me. With this came the conscious recognition that I had chosen the Buddha as my Teacher and considered him as the embodiment of the spiritual ideals of peace and liberation. I had also chosen to follow the path contained in his Teaching (the Dhamma) being confident that it would lead to liberation. And while on this path I would seek the guidance and try to emulate the example of all the noble disciples who constitute the Sangha. It was indeed wonderful to discover that I was a Buddhist and not just a Buddhist monk! Now becoming a Buddhist does not mean that one has to either agree with or believe in everything that is taught or practised by all the countless Buddhist sects and groups throughout the world. Nor do we have to believe that it is the only way and that all the other religions are no good. It simply means that having looked at and probed into this teaching of the Buddha, having tried it and having seen that it does work, one has confidence in it and chooses to take refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma, and Sangha. However if you are still unsure as to whether you are a Buddhist or you are not, don't worry about it, just keep on practising. With Metta, Jagaro Bhikkhu. ________________________________________ If you found this page useful or have any comments you can contact me at craigo@tale ofgenji.org. [ links | home | bibliography ]

How many of these things have you done?!?!?!? 1. Set foot on each of the seven continents. Antarctica might be a tough one, but once you’ve reached all seven you can truly call yourself a world traveler. 2. Cross a country on a bicycle. A bicycle tour takes some planning, but it beats being separated from a country though a passenger-side window. 3. Ride something bigger than a horse. Trekking through the jungle on the back of a two story tall elephant will surely be something you remember forever. 4. Live like a local for a month. The experience of visiting native peoples will give you way more insight into another way of life than two years hopping from one backpacker ghetto to the next. 5. Visit a “real” blues bar in Chicago. What better way to leave music’s commercialism behind and find the soul of the blues? 6. Learn another language. This is definitely a weighty and time-consuming proposition, but there are plenty of resources out there to ease the process. 7. Go heli-skiing. The access to snow and terrain via heli is different (read: better) that anything else you’ll ever experience. 8. Travel India by train. With its extensive rail network, this mode of transport is the best way to see one of the world’s most colorful and diverse countries. 9. Climb one of the world’s Seven Summits. Climbing mountains is not for the faint-hearted, but everyone has had a dream of standing atop one. 10. Dive with a whale shark. Swimming with these gentle giants is among the most powerful wilderness experiences in the world. 11. Participate in a Carnival parade in Brazil. You haven’t had a good night out until you’ve been to the biggest party in a nation of big parties. 12. Dance Tango in Argentina. 13. Surf. It’s not about being a ripper but just catching waves. 14. SCUBA in the Great Barrier Reef. The largest coral reef in the world is a must for dive enthusiasts. It is the world’s most unique aquatic environment. 15. Publish an article about your travels. Part of traveling is sharing your experiences with others. Plus, getting published might be easier than you think. Photo by Creative Corners 16. Volunteer abroad for a month. 17. Follow in the footsteps of your favorite travel book. What better guide than a book that inspired you to travel in the first place? 18. Take a bush plane ride into Africa’s interior. These lightly visited regions are filled with unique cultures and diverse wildlife. 19. Cross a glacier on foot. Traversing these fast-disappearing natural wonders is an adventure that future generations might not be able to experience. 20. Visit the source of one of the world’s great rivers. Great rivers, like the Nile, have humble beginnings. 21. Climb an active volcano. 22. Buy a boat and learn to sail. Before the Brothers Wright, everyone traveled by wind power. It’s still the most sustainable way to travel there is. 23. Follow your food from field to table. Most people in the world still eat what they have picked with their own hands. Why not get back to these basics? 24. Bathe in the Ganges. What better way to experience the spiritual heart of India? 25. Travel around the world. Sure, you could do this without ever setting foot outside of planes and airports, but few people ever truly traverse the entire globe. Round the world tickets are great for budget-minded wanderers. Photo by James Dorsey 26. Photograph an endangered species. Aside from an image you can keep for a lifetime, it will remind you, and others, how fragile life can be. 27. Participate in Burning Man . As they say: “Trying to explain Burning Man to someone who has never been is like trying to explain color to a blind person.” 28. Spend 24 hours alone in the jungle. 29. Learn how to make a national dish. What is the one and only thing that everyone has in common? Eating. 30. Teach English in a foreign country. Sure, it’s a way to fund your travels, but also the experience of a lifetime. 31. Attend a music festival in another country. 32. Cross a country using only public transportation. See a country the way most of its people do: from the window of a bus, train, or ferry. 33. Spend the night in a storied/historic hotel. You might not even have to leave town to experience a night of classic atmosphere. 34. Attend the Olympics. Whatever you say about the commercialism of the Olympic Games, they are one of the biggest events on the planet. 35. Meet your favorite (living) travel writer. They’ve inspired you; now thank them for it. 36. Travel to Germany to experience Love Parade. It’s one of the biggest festivals, attendance-wise, on the planet. Photo by astropixie 37. Partake in a Japanese Tea Ceremony. This timeless tradition is at the heart of Japanese culture. 38. Join a caravan in the Sahara. See how people can thrive in one of the world’s harshest environments. 39. Go to Oktoberfest. The meeting of over 6 million beer afficionados and dr Right noe Nikole is in the lead! How about these? 40. Stand at the North or South Pole. 41. Be in the stands when two rival South American club teams play each other in soccer. Soccer (sorry, football) is a passion for most of the world’s population. 42. Visit the birthplace or gravesite of a cultural icon. Could be Che Guevara or Picasso or Levi Strauss or the guy who invented widgets; anyone you think is important. 43. Find your version of “The Beach.” One of the best travel books ever inspired a generation of backpackers. Why not find your own version of untouched paradise? 44. Enjoy a freshly rolled cigar in Cuba. Taste a hand rolled specialty close to its source. 45. Visit every capital city in Europe. The crowded continent is full of beautiful architecture and diverse cultures. 46. Watch an orchestral performance in Vienna. Photo by Nickmunstr 47. Skydive. It is the ultimate thrill, unless you add a wingsuit, and actually fly. 48. Bike the Pacific Coast Highway. and these 49. Shake hands with someone who has truly changed a country. 50. Participate in the world’s biggest water fight during Thailand’s New Year’s festivities (Songkran). Nikole is in the lead with 9 NIKOLE IS STILL IN THE LEAD WITH 9! COME ON GUYS!!! oghma2006 and Nikole are in the lead with 9!!! If future President really did do all that he will be in the lead-but I'll ask him this first- How did you accomplish it all-there isn't enough time! I will be back in 10 minutes! Come on Guys! i am back & thx for the info Phil P oghma2006 and Nikole are in the lead with 9! Come on guys! Somebody has now taken the lead!

Japanese Rock, Paper, Scissors? (Samurai Champloo)? In episode 15 of season 1 of the Anime called Samurai Champloo there is a scene where Mugen and Jin choose a companion from the brothel. When a particularly good looking one introduces herself Mugen and Jin do something to decide who gets to pick her. It looks like a strange version of rock, paper, scissors. It may just be for the sake of comedy (like most of the episode) and really mean nothing but if it actually is a Japanese custom I'd like to learn more about it. Could you please tell me exactly what they did to decide and give as much background detail on this strange custom\tradition as possible. (also posted in Other Culture section)

Are Japanese men circumcised? I know that it varies by culture. I was wonderring what the tradition is in Japan. Cut or uncut?

Do you buy the Japanese argument that whaling is a "tradition" and therefore should be allowed? They constantly argue that it is part of their culture and therefore other countries have no right to be suppressing it. They also argue that taking 50 humpback whales will have a negligible impact on their population. Correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't slavery part of the world's culture until just a few centuries ago? Should we allow that to continue therefore? And as for the second argument, humpback whales are highly intelligent creatures with complex social and communicative interactions not unlike humans. Killing a whale is like killing a person. Just because killing 50 people would have a negligible impact on our population, does that necessarily mean we should?

Americans and their heritage? With so much of marrying between people of a different heritage or culture, how do Americans decide what to embrace or follow? Wouldn't it now just seem more sensible to embrace traditions which intrigues you regardless of whether either spouse had them if it intrigues you or you felt comfortable with it? For example, I'm a Singaporean of mixed heritage (Chinese, Indonesian and Dutch) and wondering what I really identify with. The one heritage I've decided is most relevant to myself will be peranakan culture but through the generations so much of it has become so watered down, I'm merely just an admirer of the crafts and culinary skills of this group. However, I could well simply embrace Japanese culture which is so intriguing had I felt comfortable with it as I am not tightly connected with my own heritage. If I marry a modern American of mixed heritage, we'd be throwing many new elements into the equation. I've always wondered how others decide on what to keep or discard. I am confirmed Peranakan (straits born chinese - a mixed heritage) by bloodline but not been brought up that way.

What do u think about Malaysia? Malaysia is not only filled with Malays, there r Chinese, Indians. And Korean, Japanese, Whites, and other more races. We hv many cultures, food and tradition, yet in one place here. But what do u think about Malaysia? Is it familiar to u?