07-18-2010, 12:04 AM
Perhaps this comes down to goals, including the definition of enlightenment. In a general sense, from what has been posted, it would seem the commentaries of Nagarjuna are aimed at helping readers achieve enlightenment as defined by Gautama's attainment. It took me a while to realize and to accept for myself that I have no interest in achieving enlightenment if it results in what appears to be Gautama's achievement. That may be the fault of historians,but it doesn't matter. The same may be said of Jesus' attainment. The net result is a gray sort of existence reminiscent of "reality" in "Matrix", tattered robes, bland food, cramped surroundings and all. (There were many "messages" in that movie, btw.)
One of the things missing is joy. The other is lack of sensuality. I've said before, I'm here for the mud, the blood and the beer, the red wine, the raw steak, and the cigar. It's impossible to imagine the awakened ones, as currently portrayed, engaging in any sensual pleasures, rather they eschew them. The same is true of enjoying material things. That's not my idea of enlightenment, and in a way, one reason for not studying Nagarjuna.
Elsewhere (on my own forum) I defined enlightenment as "genuine contentment". That allows the world to be exactly as it is, regardless how anyone chooses to interpret it. It also allows for acceptance of one's self, essentially the achievement of the primary goal according to don Juan: to achieve the totality of oneself.
One of the things missing is joy. The other is lack of sensuality. I've said before, I'm here for the mud, the blood and the beer, the red wine, the raw steak, and the cigar. It's impossible to imagine the awakened ones, as currently portrayed, engaging in any sensual pleasures, rather they eschew them. The same is true of enjoying material things. That's not my idea of enlightenment, and in a way, one reason for not studying Nagarjuna.
Elsewhere (on my own forum) I defined enlightenment as "genuine contentment". That allows the world to be exactly as it is, regardless how anyone chooses to interpret it. It also allows for acceptance of one's self, essentially the achievement of the primary goal according to don Juan: to achieve the totality of oneself.