Asian Sprituality/Religion: Anyone Interested??

[Benzaiten]

I just wanted to know how many of you all would be interested in a class in Asian Spirituality and Religion, since I'm considering teaching one if the interest is there. It would cover mostly Shintoism, since that is what I identify with mostly, but I would present the Shinto pantheon, the basics of Shinto beliefs, and some Shinto practices that maybe you could incorporate into your own set of practices. I would also cover the same aspects of Taoism, though at a slighly lesser extent (Deities, practices, etc.), and I would also cover Zen and how it can be incorporated into anyone's practices, regardless of religious/spiritual identity. That's pretty much all I can think to cover. So, anyone interested? Also, if there's anything you would like for me to include that I didn't mention, let me know that also.

Thank you!/Doumo Arigatou!/Xie Xie!
-Akiko

[xmezumiiru]

What is your background in each of the subjects you would like to teach? Shinto is a religion, Tao is a philosophy that is attributed with religion, and Zen is a state of mind.

Being a student of Mikkyo philosophy for several years under a licenced priest/teacher, I find it difficult to beleive you are well versed enough in each of those to teach them accurately unless you were raised in the traditions. Prove me wrong and I would be glad to listen to what you have to say on each.

[Storm Moon]

I think it's a good idea. Maybe you two could team up or something.

[xmezumiiru]

I won't teach religions that are philosophy based. I'll discuss, which this topic would be perfect for a discussion group. I have learned just enough to realize I know nothing.

[badkitty]

I might be interested but would want more information on it before making a decision. Topics to be covered, time obligation, etc.

[Benzaiten]

First of all, xmezumiiru, I agree, Shinto is a religion, Tao is more of a philosophy (but it is a religion, also), and Zen is, to use your words, which best describes it, "a state of mind."

Secondly, you need not be so hostile. I was never claiming to know everything about anything. No one is capable of that. I wasn't talking about a full-on "How to be a Shintoist" course, or "How to become a Zen Buddhist." I do know what Mikkyo is, and I wasn't planning on teaching Buddhism as a religion, merely *what* Zen is, about zazen, how Zen can be incorporated into anyone's life, etc. The basics.

And by the way, *yes*, I do attend zazen sessions and study groups at my local Zen Center, and I do think everyone should at least learn about it, if not try it out themselves. I've been studying about Taoism as a philosophy and a religion for three years now, which I know probably isn't enough for you, but I know more than most people, seeing as how most people know little to nothing about it. Shintoism... is not hard to grasp. It is actually less a religion and more a cultural thing these days. It is closely intertwined with Japanese culture. And yes, I have been "raised" in that, though I guess it could be said that I raised myself in that. I am lucky enough to be near a Japanese Cultural Center (and museum, but that's a small part of it), and I have been therefore luckier enough to have meet and befriended many native Japanese. Most of them are much older than I, and quite a few are completely willing to share their knowledge with me (and others who are interested). One woman who has taught me much about Japanese culture and beliefs that you can't glean from a book is a Ikebana and Tea Ceremony master (I know, they're both from Buddhism, before you go off on me some more. That's not all there is to her, that's just what she is internationally noted for.), and her husband just got back from Japan; he was recieving an award or honor of some kind (I can't remember just what it is called, and I apologize for that) from the Emperor for being an outstanding figure in teaching Japanese culture abroad.

I was trying to be brief in my description, but I guess I didn't get the message across. It would be a course meant to get people familar with these things. It would teach them enough to get their minds open to what Asian concepts can do for their spiritual being, it would get them familar with the beliefs and practices involved, and, of course, encourage them to seek further instruction with a local teacher if it's something they want to fully pursue. I disagree that you have to be born into a religion, though. If that were true, how many people *wouldn't* be on MW? It would be introductory. Like I said, the basics. You'd be suprised how many people don't know about Eastern religion, philosophy, culture, etc.

I really don't know why you felt it necessary to be so hostile. If you took me for an idiot, you could have PMed me, instead of trying to call me out in public. I have done nothing wrong, and I have made no claims to be a master in anything. I am not going to take this personally, and I'm just going to assume you are generally arrogant to everyone. I'm sorry you don't feel that I'm worthy enough to discuss these things with you, or obviously anyone else for that matter. If it's anyone's loss, it certainly isn't mine. You might in fact be a brillant, pleasant human being whose conversations and input I could enjoy immensely, and I hope that I have merely misjudged you and this is a resolvable misunderstanding.

As far as the idea for a CoT course goes, I will continue to see what my fellow MW'ers want. As of yet, there appears to be little interest, so it probably won't even happen. It was a nice idea, though, I think. Too bad no one agrees.

(I apologize for such a long post. I'm not a b*tch, even if this post indicates otherwise. )

[Ravens_Tears]

I haven't had alot of time for myself these past couple months but I would be interested in this. My brother is Shinto and Taoism resonates very deeply with me.

[xmezumiiru]

I had no intention of being hostile, however, if you take being direct as hostile, then the fault lies within you, not me.

As for the comment you made about being born into a religion to practice, I never said that. I was putting forth the question on your education within the religions as something with such deep cultural roots needs extremely lengthy explanations to be understood by those not from within the culture. Hence, the call on being raised within the culture.

What I was calling you on, as you have not yet responded to, was the educational background you have in Japanese Culture. I understand you grew up near a Japanese Cultural Center, and have Japanese friends. So do I, I visit Japan and I still do not understand nuances of the culture. I read the text, in the original Japanese, and still have to ask about the meaning of certain phrases.

I believe this topic would be wonderful as a discussion group topic, to discuss myths and philosophies. Presenting a single myth, and then explaining the references of the various acts within the myth would be more beneficial and would expand into the philosophies of Tao and Zen, as they are so interwoven into the Shinto Religion.

[badkitty]

I would have taken it as confrontational as well. It sounded like I don't think your qualified, prove I am wrong, rather than an open minded inquiry into what the qualification and intentions were.

I don't know either of you, and am sticking my neck out by saying anything. I appreciate xmezumiiru inquiry. It is very frustrating to put your trust in a teacher and find out that they weren't qualified and questioning someones qualifications should occur.

I also appreciate how giving people are here and know that many share knowledge in these forums freely. that they could charge for in another location. I personally truly revere those who give freely of themselves by teaching, and would like to see that the questioning of them is done in a respectful manner.

Perhaps the perception of hostility is due to the lack of tone in email, but Benzaiten, was not the only one who percieved it that way.

All that said I think a discussion qroup is a great idea.

[Romani Vixen]

I'd like a class or a discussion group!!!