Buddhism - The Vedic Connection
Buddhism - Exhibition at the British Library (until 23.2.20) - The Vedic Connection
'When we protect ourselves so we won’t feel pain, that protection becomes like armour, like armour that imprisons the softness of the heart.' - Pema Chödrön.
I recently went to see the Buddhist exhibition at the British Library which is described as an opportunity to “Encounter the outstanding beauty of Buddhist manuscripts and artworks in the largest exhibition of its kind ever held at the British Library.” This broad ranging exhibition about Buddhism gave me the opportunity to explore the origins of this religion, which has over 500 million followers, (300,000 of whom live in the UK), and in particular to find if there was reference to its Vedic heritage.
For those who know little of Buddhism this is an excellent introduction
Consequently the exhibition takes a broad brush to explaining the basic tenets, illustrated by displaying many contemporary and sometimes garish objects and just a few historical artefacts.
Originating in north India in 6th century BCE with the enlightenment of the historical Buddha the early Buddhist scriptures and doctrine developed in the literary languages of ancient India, especially Sanskrit and Pali.
The historical Buddha, also known as Shakyamuni Buddha, was born in Lumbini in present day Northern Nepal as Prince Siddharta Gautama, and became a teacher and spiritual leader. By seeking universal truth and through meditation he became enlightened and released from the cycle of rebirths. Seeking to find an answer to the cause of human suffering he renounced his luxurious royal life and embarked on the 'Middle Way' avoiding extremes of austerity and luxury. It was whilst meditating that he achieved enlightenment and became a Buddha and for over 40 years travelled along the Ganges teaching and founding a monastic order - the Sangha.
Buddhist doctrine developed from philosophical and cosmological concepts of ancient India. The Buddha's teachings are based on the Hindu idea of Karma, the principle of cause and effect. Karma determines the cycle of birth-death-rebirth known as Samsara, which is regarded as a continuation of worldly suffering.
For those who study Vedic knowledge Buddhism has strong echoes and similarities which emphasise the Indian origins of this major world religion. It is fascinating to consider that by the 7th century CE it had begun to lose influence as a distinct and organised religion, which until then was established throughout India. By around the 13th century CE, due to the arrival of Islam, it had declined with just small enclaves remaining in the south and north of the country.
I would have welcomed more examination of the prevailing historical, philosophical, religious and socio-economic background to Prince Saddharta making that audacious first step to founding this gentle approach to life but this is an enjoyable and informative exhibition worth seeing.
'The Truth you believe in and cling to makes you unavailable to hear anything new' - Pema Chödrön.