Wow...my old and former Anglican priest just sent me an email indicating his understanding that God as such is both father, and mother. That's quite a revelation from the conservative establishment. Is it possible that there are renegade priests out there who are influenced by the Buddha and Tao? In the church's men's dinner he had invited me in some weeks ago, he had also asked me if there was any chance that I may give the Quakers another chance, and I said no. I never gave this particular moment much thought...until now
In Zen, we know for a fact that Siddhartha was male, but 'buddha' as such that we recognize today has no form of whatever sort...be it solid, liquid, or gas. Yet there are some who recognize the male and female of the BigMind/Big I..refered to by some Zen practitioners as Buddha I have 2 Buddha statues in my room...the proper Buddha, and the laughing Chinese variety. There's no doubt that both look very much male. Yet, we as followers of Zen are not pagans. Pagans have idols of gods and goddesses and of other beings that have actual, individual forms and personalities. The statues in my room however, are a contradiction in terms..zen-wise. How can there be Buddha when there is no Buddha to see, or acknowledge through one's senses? And yet, I have them, ie, the statues. I feel like looking at them and absorbing the complete silence forever each time after zazen Some also speak of god within, and male or female orientation of such god(s) are often clues to their spiritual policies. Jehovah being male or female or both...I don't know. The Great Buddha being male or female?....hmmm...interesting concept..*grin*.. Buddha be praised Mel
