Sayings from the Kalama Sutra

Condensed Essence of The Kalama Sutra:

Do not believe in anything (simply) because you have heard it.

Do not believe in traditions because they have been handed down for many generations.

Do not believe in anything because it is spoken and rumoured by many.

Do not believe in anything (simply) because it is found written in your religious books.

Do not believe in anything merely on the authority of your teachers and elders.

But after observation and analysis when you find that anything agrees with reason and is conductive to the good and benefit of one and all then accept it and live up to it.

- The Kalama Sutra

Above is a foundation Sutra of the Buddhist Theravadan School, this is the basis by which the Buddha taught his doctrines. In times of self doubt, uncertainty and listlessness... one should always refer the basic teaching to help refocus one's mind onto the path.

Be it the Sutras ( Sanskrit or Pali ), The Bible ( Greek, Hebrew, Archaic or English ), The Quran ( and its supporting doctrines ), The Vedas ( and its supporting doctrines ), Tao Te Ching or any of the ancient books that have inspired millions... Although even THOSE we are not supposed to believe on Blind faith alone... We are to study, contemplate and apply that whichis apt for us at the time.... Because in the end, no one can be responsible for our practice and our lives other than via our own decisions and judgments... Hence, we should be ready to face that which needs to be faced and learn that which needs to be learnt... Life's spiritual lessons given to ourselves according to our own karma.

Om Shri Mani Hum