Zen rejects Buddhism: How the 4SofZ are incompatible with Buddhism's Holy 8FP

Four Statements of Zen

1. The separate transmission outside the teachings,

2. Not based on words,

3. Points directly at the human mind—

4. You see your nature and become a buddha

In contrast:

1. The 8FP is inside the teachings.
2. It is 100% based on words
3. The 8FP points to the "right" way, not your mind.
4. The 8FP doesn't say anything about becoming a Buddha... because you don't become a buddha by following the 8FP.

These seem like small points of little importance... but to Buddhists, these are the entirety of the religious faith.

Also note: there are lots of ways that "path" or "way" comes up in Zen teachings... none of them involve the 8FP to my knowledge.

Bird path, yes. 8FP, no.

Submitted March 27, 2023 at 09:44AM by ewk https://ift.tt/7AxVUGf