Why are those who believe saved?
How do you feel when you hear the phrase "Those who believe will be saved?" Perhaps you've heard it jokingly from friends or in a teasing manner. Have you ever felt a sense of doubt or wondered if such a thing could really be true?
I used to wonder, "Why are only those who believe saved?" It seems unfair that those who don't believe wouldn't be saved. Actually, there's a deeper reason behind this.
It's not that only believers are saved, but that only believers can be saved.
So why can only believers be saved? And are believers truly saved?
The conclusion is, "Those who believe will be saved." There are valid reasons for this phrase.
In this article, I aim to explore why believers are saved, whether they are truly saved, and what great power comes from believing. We will uncover the answers to "Why are believers saved?" and "Why should we be grateful to God?"
Please stay with us until the end.
If there was nothing in this world that could be believed in...
The sadness of not being believed by anyone, the frustration of being betrayed even after trusting someone, the inability to believe in oneself—many people have experienced such painful feelings and are still suffering from them.
I, too, have been in a state of despair, feeling that everything I had built up and my life itself were meaningless, when no one believed in me.
"If no one believes in me, then so be it."
"Even if no one believes in me, I'll believe in someone."
"Even if someone doesn't believe in me, I'll believe in them."
But when your heart is truly broken, what should you believe in to keep living?
When no one believes in your desire to make amends after doing something wrong:
"They're hopeless."
"They're bound to fail again."
"Once a villain, always a villain."
"I'm scared because I don't know what they're thinking."
"You never know what they'll do next."
There are many reasons why someone might not be believed or why no one believes in them.
"Even the virtuous can attain rebirth in the Pure Land, how much more so the wicked"
The phrase "Even the virtuous can attain rebirth in the Pure Land, how much more so the wicked" is attributed to Shinran, the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. This means that if even good people can be saved, then wicked people can be saved all the more. Shinran taught that all humans inherently possess delusions and desires, making self-salvation difficult. Therefore, relying on the vow of Amida Buddha is crucial, and it is especially the wicked who are the primary focus of salvation.
Who is really suffering?
The Desire to Believe and the Power of Belief
People, in this uncertain world, desire something reliable that they can believe in, and this creates a desire to believe in something.
The object of belief varies from person to person—it could be someone they respect, a proverb, the thoughts of someone they admire, a song, a phrase from an anime or movie, a number, or even a physical object.
Humans tend to seek something tangible.
We often understand others well, but we struggle to understand our own hearts. We desire someone who affirms us, saying "It's okay to be who you are," and we search for this affirmation through comparisons with others.
What does it mean to believe in someone?
To believe is to acknowledge.
To believe is also to acknowledge the existence of the other person.
Affirmation leads to reassurance.
It is painful to be unable to affirm oneself.
To be believed in by others is a form of affirmation, which leads to reassurance.
To believe in oneself is self-affirmation, and it also leads to reassurance.
The power to believe in oneself is easy for anyone to feel, and belief, for better or worse, dispels doubts. The power to be believed in by someone else can also be deeply felt if one has had significant experiences in this regard.
So, what about the power to be believed in by God? This might be difficult to truly feel for those without faith, no matter how logically it is explained, but I will proceed step by step to explain it.
People find it difficult to believe in "事"(koto) that are intangible.
In Japanese, the word "mono" (物) refers to physical objects, tangible items that can be seen and touched. On the other hand, "koto" (事) refers to events or occurrences that unfold over time and cannot be physically grasped. People find it easier to believe in "mono" because they are concrete and present, whereas "koto" are intangible and abstract, making them harder to believe in.
The word "koto" encompasses a wide range of intangible events, actions, and phenomena, which can include emotions and mental states such as believing, loving, and hating. This differs from "mono," which refers to tangible objects. In this context, "koto" represents abstract concepts and experiences, while "mono" refers to physical items and objects. This distinction is crucial for understanding the depth of the original Japanese text.
To believe is to love.
To believe in someone without any cost, that is, to acknowledge and affirm them, can only be done if you love them. Unconditionally accepting someone is the greatest proof of love.
"who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time."
If God has borne all the sins of mankind, sacrificed Himself, and given His life, then you no longer need to sacrifice yourself.
Your sins have been atoned for by God's sacrifice.
Therefore, you can believe in God and believe in yourself.
God loves you. God desires your happiness.
God is the one who believes in you unconditionally.
As long as you believe in God, God will believe in you.
Having someone believe in you can create self-confidence, but if no one believes in you, or if you lose the ability to believe in anyone, you may also find it difficult to believe in yourself.
Who can you continue to believe in?
The realization that God believes in you begins with your belief in God.
If you believe in God, God will not betray you.
I believe in all people eternally.
You only need to believe in that.
You should wish for your own happiness from God.
In the past, I appeared in this world,
Believed in all people, and became eternal.
Therefore, that is also eternal.
So, you only need to believe.
And you should wish for your hope.
You only need to be grateful for that blessing.
To believe and to be grateful,
To wish for your own happiness,
Will open up your world.
The Scope of What Can Be Believed
To believe in something, there needs to be a guarantee or assurance.
To believe in something, anyone needs a worthy guarantee. If there is no such guarantee, what can you use as collateral to believe in your own existence?
Who determines that value? Is that value correct? Is it okay for you to accept the value decided by someone else as it is?
If that guarantee is love, I think it's a wonderful thing.
The value of things can change instantly with information. Accepting such fleeting values and being swayed by them will only lead to exhaustion. If it's about your own value, it would be great if you could acknowledge it yourself, but that's quite difficult without self-confidence.
What is Value?
Value refers to the importance or usefulness that an object or concept holds, or its desirability to people. It is a multifaceted concept that can be understood from various perspectives. Here are some key viewpoints:
1. Economic Value
Economic value is the worth of a good or service in the marketplace. It is typically expressed in monetary terms and determined by supply and demand. Economists like Adam Smith and David Ricardo explored this concept extensively .
2. Moral Value
Moral value pertains to the ethical significance of actions or beliefs. It is a key concept in philosophy and ethics, involving notions such as justice, good, evil, and duty .
3. Subjective Value
Subjective value is based on individual feelings and preferences. It varies greatly among people due to differences in experiences, culture, and education. This concept is explored in the theories of psychologists like Carl Rogers .
4. Social Value
Social value refers to the common recognition and evaluation of certain objects or concepts within a society. It is shaped by cultural and social norms, and is linked to social approval and status .
5. Aesthetic Value
Aesthetic value evaluates the beauty or emotional impact of art, natural scenery, and other objects. It is a crucial concept in art criticism and aesthetics .
Summary
Value is a complex and multifaceted concept that can be viewed through economic, ethical, psychological, social, and aesthetic lenses. Judgments of value are influenced by individual subjectivity and societal factors, making a universal definition challenging. Understanding these various perspectives allows for a deeper appreciation of the importance and complexity of value.
Who determines your value?
The Assurance of Believing in God
So, is there any assurance that makes a God, who is intangible and whose existence is uncertain, worthy of belief?
Historical facts, the number of believers, and other such factors can be cited as assurances for believing in God. If the arguments proving the existence of the God defined here are correct, it would be fortunate.
Living in a world where you cannot believe in anything is a painful experience.
If you believe in God and believe that the world was created by God, then by believing in God, you may also be able to believe in this world.
If you believe that God created everything in this world, then you might be able to believe in everything in this world as well. However, this is very difficult for humans.
If you can believe in the God who created everything in this world, your world will come full circle.
God believes in everything He created in His world.
Even so, the world may act irrationally against you. The world is always irrational.
But as long as you believe in God, God will believe in you.
God desires the happiness of all people.
This is because, in the past, God Himself appeared in this world as Christ and proved this, and historical facts attest to it. God is also a universal existence.
Therefore, it is universal that God believes in you.
God is the only being capable of believing in all people equally and impartially.
God is an eternal being.
Because God is an eternal being who does not exist in this world, people can accept that God believes in them eternally. Because eternity is not finite, people can believe in God.
God will believe in you forever.
God is the last one who will believe in you.
God is an eternal being who does not exist in this world, and that is why He provides universal love.
And God eternally desires your happiness.
The power of being believed in by someone and the great salvation that comes from being believed in.
Belief has no physical existence, and even if the object of belief is a concept, as long as it holds no contradictions for you, it can become a great source of mental support.
If there is someone who believes in you unconditionally, that person might be equivalent to the concept of God for you.
If you are supported by family and friends, that is a very fortunate thing.
To be saved through belief.
This applies not only to God but also to anyone else: if you do not believe that the other person believes in you, no matter how much they do, their belief in you will not be conveyed to you.
It is because you believe that the other person believes in you that you can feel their belief in you.
If you do not believe in it yourself, it does not hold true.
If you have been betrayed even when you believed in someone, and you cannot believe in anyone, what can you believe in?
If you have been betrayed and can no longer believe in anyone, if no one believes in you and you cannot believe in anyone, an existence that believes in you unconditionally might bring you great reassurance.
That is the eternal existence called God.
It is your own heart that is saved through belief.
That is the great power of believing in God.
That is the act of believing.
I mentioned unconditionally, but there is a necessary condition: as long as you believe in God.
This means that if you cannot believe that God believes in you, it cannot be established. The same applies to anyone; if you cannot believe that the other person believes in you, it does not hold.
Therefore, believing in God becomes a necessary condition.
If you do not believe in the other person, the concept that "the other person believes in you" cannot be established. This is a necessary condition for anyone.
In the act of believing, God will never betray you.
Furthermore, in the act of God believing in you, it is guaranteed by historical facts from the moment God or Buddha became eternal.
Labeling this as a "happiness logic based on monotheistic faith" might make it seem simplistic, but in reality, this logic is sustained and exists through the form of faith.
This logic is established by the belief of many people and functions as long as that faith continues. It is not about God creating the world or being omniscient and omnipotent, but rather, as a mental anchor for the believers, this logic is established as long as faith continues, and thus, God continues to exist.
Whether to believe or not is about whether it is eternal.
When people decide whether to believe in someone, they look for something that will remain unchanged forever.
If something is not universal, it is considered to be false.
However, if there is something universal, it is that everyone makes mistakes.
There is no person who never makes mistakes. To believe in someone means to acknowledge their mistakes and still believe in them.
Those who sacrifice themselves often take many mistakes upon themselves as their own.
What is "Impermanence"?
"Impermanence" (Anitya) is one of the key concepts in Buddhism, signifying the truth that nothing remains unchanged. This concept emphasizes that everything is temporary and constantly undergoing change. Here is a detailed explanation of "impermanence."
The Concept of "Impermanence" in Buddhism
1. Everything Changes
According to Buddhist teachings, all phenomena and materials in this world are in a state of constant change, and nothing remains in the same state forever. This is the core idea of "impermanence." For example, the changing of seasons and the cycle of birth and death in living beings are all evidence of this truth observed in nature and human life.
2. Impermanence and Suffering
In Buddhism, the concepts of "impermanence" and "suffering" (duḥkha) are closely related. Because change is unavoidable, attachment and desire lead to suffering. Understanding and accepting that everything is destined to change is the first step towards liberation from suffering.
3. Impermanence and Non-Self
"Impermanence" is also related to the concept of "non-self" (anātman). "Non-self" means that the "self" or "ego" is not an eternal, unchanging entity but rather a collection of impermanent elements. Since attachment to the "self" generates suffering, it is crucial to let go of this attachment.
4. Teachings in Scriptures
"Impermanence" is a recurring theme in Buddhist scriptures. For instance, major texts like the Lotus Sutra (Saddharma Puṇḍarīka Sūtra) and the Heart Sutra (Prajñāpāramitā Hṛdaya) emphasize the teachings of impermanence.
References
The Heart of Buddha's Teaching by Thich Nhat Hanh: This book provides a comprehensive overview of the core teachings of Buddhism, including the concept of impermanence (Anitya).
In the Buddha's Words edited by Bhikkhu Bodhi: This anthology of discourses from the Pali Canon includes numerous references to impermanence and its significance in Buddhist practice.
The Foundations of Buddhism by Rupert Gethin: This introductory text on Buddhism covers the key concepts, including impermanence, in detail.
Summary
"Impermanence" is a fundamental Buddhist teaching that signifies the truth that everything is in a state of flux. Understanding and accepting this truth is an essential step in Buddhist practice. By deepening our recognition that nothing remains unchanged, we can reduce attachment and find a path to liberation from suffering.
To believe is to love.
Believing in someone is not about whether they are lying or whether they will keep their promises.
To believe is to see if there is love.
Love endures all things.
Love endures all things. If it can no longer endure, love will disappear.
Only God can love all things.
Humans cannot love all people. To love all people, one must sacrifice everything.
More than 2000 years ago, to prove that God exists in this world, God appeared on earth as a human. By taking upon Himself the sins of all people and giving up His life, He proved this, showing humanity that God exists in this world.
If that event was indeed true, then it is only a matter of believing or not believing that it was true. If you accept that fact, then God exists in your world as well.
However, that proof inevitably created a chain of negative consequences. Great sorrow can lead to great hatred and conflict. But perhaps there was no other way to prove it. It had to be done that way to be conveyed and has been passed down to this day because it was done that way.
That is God's ultimate proof.
In fact, only Christ has proven God's love in this way.
God does not require anyone's sacrifice to prove His love.
Why Give Thanks to God
Life is irreplaceable and precious. To sustain life, many sacrifices are necessary.
To cherish others, one must make sacrifices.
Throughout life, we face many choices about what is more important, and everything exists based on the sacrifice of one thing over another.
If your existence is sustained by the sacrifices of many others, it is something to be deeply grateful for.
However, in this complex world, it is difficult to know what has been sacrificed and by whom. When trying to be grateful for everything, it can be challenging to know what to be thankful for. If God created everything in this world, then being grateful to God is equivalent to being grateful for everything in the world.
If God sacrificed Himself for all people, then gratitude to God could be seen as gratitude for all sacrifices.
If everyone could be grateful to everyone else, gratitude would inevitably come back to you.
Even if someone cannot express their gratitude, you can always express your gratitude to them.
Still, our own world is not that large. By being kind and expressing gratitude to our neighbors, we can create a positive flow in our world. Happiness and unhappiness in the world occur close to home.
Many religions teach the importance of gratitude.
God does not seek sacrifice.
From God's perspective, the sacrifices from this world, which can only be sustained through sacrifices, are already sufficient.
God sacrificed Himself to bear the sins of all people, and by atoning for those sins, He came to convey that He loves all people. This is the proof of God's love and existence.
It was never to say, "You must also become a sacrifice like me." God did not want to communicate that people should sacrifice themselves.
God does not desire all sacrifices. He does not seek anyone's sacrifice.
No matter how much you sacrifice yourself, you will inevitably have to sacrifice something to live.
What God wanted to convey was the existence of love, the proof of love.
God desires the happiness of all people.
Why does God not seek anyone's sacrifice?
Because we are all God's children.
If God exists, then this world is the true world created by God.
If this world was created by God, then everything in it is God's creation, and all people are God's children.
God does not seek sacrifices from His own children.
The reason God does not seek anyone's sacrifice is based on God's intrinsic love and mercy. This concept is emphasized in many religions, but it is particularly prominent in Christianity. Here are some reasons:
God's Love and Mercy
In Christianity, God is considered to possess infinite love and mercy. John 3:16 states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This shows that God deeply loves humanity and desires their salvation.
The Sacrifice of Christ
God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, who atoned for the sins of all humanity by dying on the cross. This means that no one else needs to be sacrificed. Hebrews 10:10 says, "And by that will, we have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."
Human Worth and Dignity
God created all humans as special and valuable beings. Therefore, God does not want people to impose sacrifices on each other; rather, He wants them to love and respect one another. Genesis 1:27 states, "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them."
Forgiveness and Redemption of Sins
It is believed that God has already forgiven all sins through Christ's sacrifice. This shows that God does not need any new sacrifices. Ephesians 1:7 states, "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace."
Conclusion
God does not seek anyone's sacrifice because of His intrinsic love, the redemptive act of Christ, the worth and dignity of humanity, and the already provided forgiveness of sins. For these reasons, God desires people to live with love and gratitude.
Proof of God - Why is One God Sufficient?
What if God proved that the origin of everything in this world is a single point, and that point is love?
What if that proof made it a fact?
What if the world was born from one love and is filled with that love?
God was born as a human, bore the sins of all people, sacrificed His life, and proved that God exists and that He loves all people.
You only need to believe that. If you do, in your world, the existence of God, who sacrificed everything, is sufficient. If you believe in God, then God exists in your world.
And your world will be filled with love.
Hold gratitude for all sacrifices.
Then your world will surely move in a good direction.
If God asks for anything, it is to have a heart of gratitude.
Express your gratitude.
People want proof of things that have no tangible form.
Without form, they feel insecure.
It is the same with God; people sought a tangible proof worthy of belief in God.
Feelings and emotions have no tangible form.
Humans created words.
Words succeeded in conveying feelings of gratitude to others.
Yet, the true heart remains unknown.
People read between the lines of words.
People always seek tangible forms.
Believing in things that are invisible or intangible is unsettling.
Words give form to the heart.
When you express feelings of gratitude in words, someone else's emotions are carried through those words and reach you. Your emotions are conveyed to others through words and letters.
Gratitude shared through words allows emotions to be shared.
Where is God?
In your own heart.
It is love itself.
That heart is God, Buddha, and your own heart.
That is love.
"My deeds are not done by myself; they are powered by the authority of the ancestral god who lives through and transcends heaven and earth."
The expression "My deeds are not done by myself; they are powered by the authority of the ancestral god who lives through and transcends heaven and earth" reflects an important concept in Shinto. This phrase means that one's actions are not accomplished by one's own power, but by the power of the ancestral god who lives and transcends the universe. This concept indicates the belief that all human actions and life are supported by the power of the gods.
May we become Bodhisattvas of Healing
The words of Nichiren, "May we become Bodhisattvas of Healing," mean that those who chant the Lotus Sutra are imbued with the power of the Bodhisattvas. It emphasizes that through the practice of faith, divine power is manifested.
These ideas are similar to the Christian concept that "we are instruments of God's will." In Romans 6:13, the Bible says, "Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness."
Christ is both a person who appeared in this world to prove the existence of God for all people and is God Himself.
Each religion has its important teachings, and there are many common teachings among them. It is acceptable for each person to believe in their own God or Buddha.
If God and Buddha both wish for the happiness of all people, they would not be angry about it.
If someone is trying to lead another person to happiness, there is no reason for God not to bless that effort.
The Golden Rule
1. Christianity
Quote: Matthew 7:12
"So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."
Explanation: The Golden Rule in Christianity teaches practicing actions towards others that one would wish for themselves. This teaching demonstrates a moral code of love and compassion.
2. Buddhism
Quote: Udana-Varga 5:18
"Treat not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful."
Explanation: Buddhism emphasizes treating others without causing harm. This teaching fosters a spirit of compassion and empathy.
3. Islam
Quote: Hadith (Sahih Muslim)
"None of you [truly] believes until he loves for his brother that which he loves for himself."
Explanation: In Islam, practicing compassion and love towards others is a fundamental part of the faith. This teaching strengthens the bonds of community.
4. Judaism
Quote: Talmud (Shabbat 31a)
"What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. This is the whole Torah; the rest is the explanation; go and learn."
Explanation: The Golden Rule in Judaism advocates for actions that do not harm others, emphasizing the importance of ethical living.
Three Common Principles
1. Love and Compassion
Christianity: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:31)
Buddhism: "Have compassion for all beings." (Dhammapada 1:8)
Islam: "The believers are but brothers." (Quran 49:10)
Judaism: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Leviticus 19:18)
2. Kindness and Respect
Christianity: "Do to others as you would have them do to you." (Luke 6:31)
Buddhism: "Be kind to others." (Dhammapada 223)
Islam: "Kind words and forgiveness are better than charity followed by injury." (Quran 2:263)
Judaism: "Loving others is part of loving God." (Mishnah Avot 1:12)
3. Truth and Integrity
Christianity: "Speak the truth." (Ephesians 4:25)
Buddhism: "Speak the truth and be honest." (Dhammapada 224)
Islam: "Speak the truth and avoid falsehood." (Quran 33:70)
Judaism: "Do not give false testimony." (Exodus 20:16)
From these quotes and explanations, it is clear that major religions share universal values such as love, kindness, respect, truth, and integrity. These values are emphasized as fundamental principles for living together in peace and harmony.
Love takes many forms.
Self-sacrifice is the greatest expression of love for others, but what is important is to feel that the other's kindness is love and to return the feeling of gratitude.
Faith fosters respect and gratitude towards others.
Some people may think that believing in oneself is enough.
Religion provides teachings for living a righteous life.
If you believe in God, it is necessary to follow the basic teachings of that belief.
By living according to the correct way, as prescribed, you can live a happier life.
The great power of having a common belief.
I believe that the great power of monotheism lies in the idea that if people can believe in a common God, their hearts will unite.
People feel happiness by sharing their emotions.
Humans are creatures that feel happiness when they can confirm with each other that they are the same and share their emotions.
Whether it's eating something delicious, receiving a paycheck, or buying something they want, the feeling of happiness comes from within their own heart.
The feeling of happiness is a movement of one's own heart.
Words of gratitude.
When looking at the etymology of words that express gratitude, it's evident that words are creations by humans to convey messages to others. While the meanings of these words differ across languages, in Indonesian, the word for "thank you" is "Terima kasih." The components of this phrase are "Terima," meaning "receive," and "Kasih," meaning "love."
Literally translated, it means "I have received love," which is a very straightforward way to express gratitude.
Love is an emotion that arises from within oneself. Acts of kindness towards someone stem from feelings of love. When you receive someone's kind words or actions, your heart is moved by that kindness. By expressing your moved feelings through words of gratitude, the loving emotion sent by the other person is returned to them in the form of grateful words, thereby sharing the emotion of love.
What we can understand from the word "Terima kasih" is that the people who created this phrase recognize that kind words and actions come from love. They understand that the warm, happy feeling you get when you want to express gratitude is born from receiving the other person's love. This loving emotion is shared when you communicate your gratitude to the other person.
It must be added here that the expression of words is ultimately limited by their definitions, making it impossible to convey everything.
Incompatible things do not mix.
However, not everything can be resolved with gratitude.
When fire meets wood, the wood burns.
When fire meets water, the fire is extinguished.
This is based on the concept of Yin-Yang and the Five Elements Theory, but there are many cases where keeping a distance is the best course of action. Some things that are incompatible will never mix. In such cases, maintaining an appropriate distance can be seen as an expression of love.
Faith is about sharing common values.
Differences in values that stem from faith can be significant, and conflicts often arise from these differences in values. There is an idea that conflicts would not occur if what is believed and the beliefs themselves were correct and shared.
In the past, instead of laws, teachings from religions were used to maintain order and governance. In this case, it can be said that governance was achieved not by binding people with laws, but by nurturing their hearts through religious teachings.
It also involves sharing a common perception of the world through religious teachings. If the world perception is correct and shared, the amount of conflict should decrease accordingly. However, historically, there have been many conflicts due to differences in religious worldviews. It is always humans who make mistakes in this regard.
The Value of Life
The value of one's own life is neither a score nor necessarily defined by someone else's right answer.
Do you think that happiness, as determined by someone else, would be true happiness for you?
Each person finds their own answer. The value of each person's life is not determined by numbers, and whether one is happy or not is always decided by one's own heart.
Happiness depends upon ourselves.
Value Dependent on Information
The value of oneself that depends on the fluid information from external sources often diverges from its essence, and the value derived solely from such information can sometimes collapse.
Suppose you look at an apple and think it looks delicious, but then you receive more and more information.
The apple itself does not change materially from the beginning, but its value and perception continuously change due to the information.
However, it can be said that God, with infinite love, believes in you even if you lose sight of your own value.
When a person dies, nothing remains for themselves. They must let go of all their possessions, even their own body.
The heart belongs to no one but oneself. The ability to recognize oneself as oneself lies in one's own consciousness, and nurturing the heart throughout life is the only proof of one's existence. Recognizing this proof is possible only through one's own heart.
When you die, everything may become nothing, and your consciousness may cease to exist, but until the very end of your life, the world for you is merely a projection of your own consciousness.
If, at the end of your life, you have time to reflect on your life, no matter what you gathered or how you lived, it is your own heart that will judge whether you were happy.
If your heart were to remain even after you have passed away, then nurturing your heart can be said to be everything in life.
Nurturing the heart is extremely important.
Belief and Deeds Based on Faith
Commonality of Faith and Deeds
In the major world religions—Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism—the importance of faith and deeds is universally emphasized. Let's take a look at the concepts within each religion.
Faith and Deeds in Islam
In Islam, faith (iman) and deeds (amal) are closely linked. The Five Pillars (Shahada, Salah, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj) are ways to practice faith. Faith is proven through deeds, and deeds are considered a means to deepen faith.
Faith and Deeds in Christianity
In Christianity, both faith and deeds are emphasized. The Apostle Paul taught justification by faith, while the Epistle of James states, "Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." Faith should be practiced through acts of love and charity towards others.
Karma in Hinduism
In Hinduism, karma (actions) is believed to affect one's future lives and reincarnation. The law of karma states that good deeds bring positive results and bad deeds bring negative results. Karma connects individual actions to their outcomes and plays a crucial role in spiritual evolution.
Karma in Buddhism
In Buddhism, karma (actions) also holds that intentional actions bring future results. Good karma (good deeds) and bad karma (bad deeds) lead to future happiness or suffering and are important factors in attaining enlightenment.
In all these religions, there is a commonality in the importance of both belief and deeds. In Islam and Christianity, faith is expected to be demonstrated through concrete actions. In Hinduism and Buddhism, the law of causality emphasizes that deeds affect future outcomes. Thus, in every religion, faith is not just an internal belief but is intrinsically connected to tangible actions.
Creeds and Laws
Unite the world not by binding it with laws, but by nurturing people's hearts.
Religions have precepts, but religion is meant to nurture one's own heart.
Pursuit of Efficiency
From an efficiency standpoint, nurturing people's hearts is inefficient, whereas laws are more efficient. In a world where one cannot live without sacrificing someone, faith alone cannot cover everything.
On the Correctness of Religion
It is difficult to say definitively whether all religious teachings are correct, as there are many issues and complexities involved. However, if one believes in God and thinks that their religious teachings are correct, then it is natural to follow those teachings.
Religious and Historical Challenges
Each religion has developed within different cultural and social contexts throughout history. There were times when practices such as slavery and discrimination against women were accepted.
Slavery
Christianity: There was a time in Christian history when slavery was legal. Some parts of the Bible contain instructions regarding slaves (Ephesians 6:5), and some Christians used these passages to justify slavery. However, over time, many Christians opposed slavery and supported the abolition movement.
Islam: Slavery also existed in the early days of Islam. The Qur'an contains guidance on the treatment of slaves (Qur'an 4:36) but also encourages the liberation of slaves. In modern Islamic societies, slavery has been abolished.
Discrimination Against Women
Hinduism: In Hindu history, there were times when women were placed in lower status compared to men. Practices such as sati (widow self-immolation) and restrictions on women's education and freedom are examples. In recent years, there have been active movements in India to improve women's rights.
Buddhism: Buddhism also had periods when women were considered inferior to men. For instance, some Buddhist doctrines stated that women could only attain enlightenment by being reborn as men. However, modern Buddhist communities have been working to improve the role and status of women.
Future Challenges and Directions
In the contemporary world, religion remains an important source of faith and moral guidance for many people. However, it is crucial to consider how religion should play a role in future society, taking into account past issues.
Reevaluation of Past Teachings: It is important to reevaluate religious teachings in light of modern values and, if necessary, revise doctrines and practices. This involves recognizing past issues and making reflections and improvements.
Education and Dialogue: Promoting dialogue within and between religions and providing education that respects diverse perspectives is necessary. This can help religion become a space for sharing common values rather than dividing people.
Respect for Human Rights: Efforts should be made to ensure that religious teachings align with respect for human rights. Protecting women's rights and the rights of minorities and striving for a society where all people are treated equally is essential.
Social Contribution: Religion should play a role in contributing to society through charitable activities and community support. By doing so, faith can contribute to the betterment of society through tangible actions.
While it is difficult to definitively determine the correctness of religions, and there have been various historical issues, if one believes that their faith is right, it is natural to follow its teachings. At the same time, it is important to reevaluate past teachings in light of modern values and make improvements. This way, religion can continue to be a source of faith for people while contributing to the creation of a fairer and more equal society.
An Era Without the Need for Faith
Even so, there are still many places in the world where people cannot live without faith.
Nowadays, there are many other things besides faith that people rely on for emotional support.
In prosperous times, the necessity of faith may not be felt as strongly.
The Necessity of Religion
Even with what little I know, there is a wealth of wisdom inherent in religions. In this increasingly diverse society, now is the time to share the important teachings found in each religion.
If we are to seriously consider accepting the diversity of society as a whole, it is not an exaggeration to say that sharing the wisdom found in each religion is of utmost importance.
What is necessary for this is dialogue.
If there is a truly peaceful world, it would be a world where everyone is happy.
In this world, there are oneself and others.
An individual's existence is 1 in 7 billion.
No one has that many neighbors, but if everyone were kind to their neighbors, the world might turn and be a happier place.
Here are examples of teachings from various religions that emphasize the importance of kindness to neighbors:
Christianity:
Bible, Mark 12:30-31: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these."
This teaching highlights that loving one's neighbor is one of the most important commandments, promoting a sense of community and mutual respect.
Judaism:
Talmud, Shabbath 31a: "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. This is the whole Torah; all the rest is commentary."
This principle, often referred to as the Golden Rule, underscores the importance of treating others with the same kindness and respect that one would want for oneself.
Islam:
Qur’an 4:36: "Serve Allah, and join not any partners with Him; and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, those in need, neighbors who are near, neighbors who are strangers, the companion by your side, the wayfarer..."
This verse emphasizes the duty of Muslims to be kind and do good to everyone around them, including neighbors and strangers.
Buddhism:
Metta Sutta: The practice of metta, or loving-kindness, encourages cultivating kindness towards all beings, wishing them happiness, peace, and well-being.
This practice is essential for overcoming hatred and fostering a sense of unity and interconnectedness.
Hinduism:
Bhagavad Gita: "This is the sum of duty; do naught unto others what you would not have them do unto you."
This teaching promotes compassion and non-violence (ahimsa), treating all beings with love and respect.
Jainism:
Sutrakritanga 1.11.33: "One should treat all creatures in the world as one would like to be treated."
This aligns closely with the principle of non-violence and respect for all living beings.
Sikhism:
Guru Granth Sahib, p.1299: "I am a stranger to no one; and no one is a stranger to me. Indeed, I am a friend to all."
This teaching emphasizes universal brotherhood and the importance of seeing everyone as part of a larger family.
These teachings from various religions illustrate a common thread of kindness and respect towards others, reinforcing the idea that mutual respect and compassion are fundamental for a harmonious society
The world runs on gratitude.
If there were a world where everyone could be grateful to everyone, it would be a wonderful world for everyone.
In reality, this is often not the case, but aiming for it is not wrong.
Values differ from person to person, and it is difficult for everyone to share the same values. Just because values differ does not necessarily mean that people are on bad terms.
By adhering to the inner tenets of faith and accumulating experiences within them, individuals can cultivate their hearts and values. Over time, this helps form a common understanding within the community, which functions to maintain the community's healthy order.
What is needed is to acknowledge each other's values.
Belief and gratitude form the value of each life within their respective lives.
People may sacrifice others for what is important to them, and all life cannot live without sacrificing something. However, God sacrificed His all and gave His life to atone for everyone's sins.
That is God's love.
If sacrifice were required, the fact that He bore everyone's sins and sacrificed Himself would not stand, nor would it demand the same sacrifice from others.
The greater the light, the greater the shadow, The closer the shadow is, the darker it is.
The greater the power, the greater the action and reaction.
God saves all people.
Humans are only human.
Even so, in the competition for survival, all life must sacrifice something to live.
If it is inevitable that people must always sacrifice something to live, then it may be inevitable that conflicts arise and someone loses.
Even so, if people wish to avoid conflict and desire peace, God will surely protect you.
Because God exists.
This world is diverse, and there are as many subjective worlds as there are people.
In this diverse world, what is needed is to believe in your own world and to believe in someone else's world.
This means believing in the God of your own world and believing in the God of someone else's world.
In this diverse world, there are many gods and Buddhas. It doesn't matter which god someone believes in; as long as there is a god in their world, there is love for everyone, and that is enough.
What is important is the heart that wishes for this from God.
If there is a God in this world, there is no reason why God would not bless someone who is trying to lead others to happiness.
Therefore, you can believe in your God.
A world sustained by the notion of "I believe in you, so you should believe in me" will never function properly.
If that were the case, what could someone who cannot believe in themselves use as collateral to believe in themselves?
Effort is collateral, and effort leads to confidence, but sometimes efforts are not rewarded, and one loses oneself and cannot believe in anything.
Even if no one believes in you and you cannot believe in yourself, if you can believe in God, God will believe in you.
That is the greatest salvation that God can give to everyone.
The world was born out of love.
If you can't trust anyone and no one believes in you, you may find it impossible to believe in yourself.
When no one believes in you, you might feel like your life doesn't matter anymore and become reckless.
If you can't believe in yourself, you will lose the meaning of life.
Who will be the first to believe in you?
If you have no family or friends who believe in you, and if no one believes in you, how can you believe in someone else and believe in yourself?
An absolutely unconditional presence that believes in you is necessary. But not everyone can do that.
The existence of God becomes the starting point of belief. Everything begins with believing.
God is eternal, and as long as you believe that God believes in you, God believes in you. In fact, even if you don't believe, God believes in you.
The idea that if everyone could believe this, the world would be peaceful, is the God logic demonstrated so far. However, every person has their own world, and every person has their own form of God they believe in.
Believing in your own world, believing in someone else's world.
Thinking that someone believes in you is because you believe so, and everything is as you believe.
Wishing
If there is something you cannot believe in, then you should wish for it from God.
The heart that wishes for it to be so from God will surely become your salvation.
Words of gratitude transform events into tangible things.
Words are magical in that they transform the surface of the heart, which is hard for humans to believe in, into something tangible.
Emotions are invisible. That’s why when you receive love from someone, it’s necessary to convey your gratitude with words.
Because it is a fact.
Emotions that stay only in the heart are not shared.
Believing in oneself, believing in others Feeling oneself, feeling others
Believing in each other's world What we believe in is each other's love
If we cannot believe in someone else's God, can we truly accept diversity?
God is someone’s love, your own love, and everything in this world
This world is what you believe it to be
But that’s exactly what evil can deceive
Darkness breeds fear
Anxiety and hatred arise from one’s own heart
What dispels this is the heart that believes
If in doubt, choose the right path as a friend
Reflect on righteousness when seeking personal gain.
You must never make anyone suffer
The feelings of the person most hurt are the hardest to see
That’s why it’s the hardest to convey those feelings Because that person is on the opposite side of you
Without realizing it, you might hurt someone important again
Emotions amplify – both good intentions and bad ones
Never do anything you can't laugh about later If it can be laughed about later, it’s okay
Everyone has moments when they are tempted by evil
There are many people to whom I cannot apologize enough. I have done many bad things more than anyone.
My father taught me that while it’s okay to do bad things, you must never make anyone sad.
I am truly sorry.
I have made many mistakes and learned from them.
You must not deceive anyone
Emotions must be nurtured and cultivated
What supports all of this is the heart that believes in love
By sharing love, the heart is healed
Humans are creatures that feel happiness by sharing emotions The happiness of sharing
Believing in love, feeling oneself
Humans live in a constantly changing world of consciousness And it is all controlled by information
Believing in your own world, feeling all of it
Emotions that arise can be held onto or discarded
Among them, there are things that cannot be easily discarded Things that quickly fade away Things that cannot be easily picked up Facing them is what life is about
If you create enemies in your heart It is difficult to wipe them away
In the world you see If you can illuminate the person you think is the most unfortunate That is the happiest thing of all
If you can love that person That is also the happiest thing of all
Everyone has a range within which they can illuminate others That is why everyone is necessary
In a large light, small lights are not visible In darkness, a large light is too dazzling
Someone will always be a light for someone else
Every emotion contains love That is why people struggle and suffer with all emotions
If you can truly love all emotions You will be rewarded at that time
If light is infinite, then darkness is also infinite Illuminate with infinite light
Forgetfulness is eternal light
God always illuminates the darkness And darkness is always illuminated by light
Give thanks to God
God exists
Feel your own world
Feel someone else’s world
To know is to walk the path.
In Chinese, the word for knowledge is "知道" (zhīdào), which also means "to know." Breaking down "知道," "知" (zhī) means "to know," and "道" (dào) means "path."
In Japanese, the meaning of the characters "知道," which express knowledge, understanding, and realization, translates to "the path of knowing."
Knowing is similar to walking a path. By repeatedly walking the same path and noticing things, or by progressing along the way, knowledge continually evolves. It can be said that knowing is synonymous with life itself.
Knowledge changes as we walk the same path multiple times and progress along the way.
After one or two times, it remains "不知道" (bù zhīdào), which means "don't know."
The End and the Beginning
This is one answer derived from all the encounters and experiences brought about by the contingencies surrounding me. Whether this answer is correct or not will be determined by your own experiences in the future, and you should compare it to the answers you arrive at yourself.
As for me, the job I am doing to live right now is not a job that makes anyone happy. I struggle with this daily, and I still have no answers for my own life.
I believe that love exists in everyone’s heart. I hope that is true.
It may not always be directed toward me. Even so, everyone has love.
I believe that this comes from the unique cultural diversity in Japan, where we have a Shinto altar, a Buddhist altar, and a Christmas tree side by side.
Thank you for staying with me until the end.
I hope that all the contingencies that unfold from here will lead to happiness, and I believe in that.
The world is filled with love!
I hope that your future will be happy.
The future is something we all create together.
That’s what it means to be human.
I wish for a happy future for everyone.
Because the world I see includes everyone.
The world is created by the power of all people.
Believe in your own world. Believe in someone else’s world.
The choices are infinite.
The possibilities are endless!
Thank you. It’s because you are here.
I think, therefore I am. Others think, therefore I am.
entrance to the new world
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