Suresh,

First of all I certainly do not consider myself 'enlightened'.  I'm actually 
not sure what that term really means, especially to you.  Some people use it to 
be synonymous with 'realizing Buddha Nature' but as I told you in my previous 
post that's not something that necessary brings an end to illusion, and even if 
so not an immediate end.

I did ask one of my zen teachers if he was enlightened all the time - 24 hours 
a day, 7 days a week.  He replied, 'Yes, but I'm not always aware that I am.'  
I thought that was a good reply and was satisfied with it.

I have not remembered any past lives, but I have not tried.  I know 
reincarnation was not something that was talked about a lot if at all by any of 
my zen teachers.  Personally I don't believe in reincarnation so don't expect 
to remember any past lives - but I might be surprised some day.

In any event I don't believe reincarnation and past lives is anything 
important.  Do you?  If so, why?  

...Bill!

--- In [email protected], "Suresh" <varamtha@...> wrote:
>
> Thanks Bill and Joe.
> 
> I have understood. Now another question is , Buddha had mentioned about 
> remembering his past lives. Having enlightened and practiced zen for 40 years 
> will you be able to remember your past lives? If not why?
> 
> Suresh
>




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