Summer Solstice at Stonehenge

Science and the Teachings of the Buddha

The Cosmic Process of Universal Energy

and Purpose of Humankind

PART TWO

  In his New York Times article, Timothy Ferris points out, “new theories of physics imply that all known forces in nature are manifestations of one basic interaction and once, long ago, all were part of a single universal force or process.”

  Physicist Fritjof Capra, as he introduces discoveries in quantum physics in his book The Turning Point, reminds us, “as quantum physics came into play, the universe is no longer seen as a machine made up of a multitude of objects but has to be pictured as one indivisible, dynamic whole whose parts essentially are interrelated and can be understood only as patterns of a cosmic process.”

  The universe does exist, and humanity exists, emerging after billions of years as a result of this cosmic process. Teachings of the Buddha view all existence as supremely sacred, requiring no other-worldly entity—no “God on High”—to validate it. Most important of all, from this perspective, even the sanctity of the plain and mundane things of daily existence are sanctified.

  “In this enlightened awareness we can all see the marvelous wonder of our universe, blemishes and all, and find our home and comfort in a cosmos that is magically a part of us, and us a part of it.” – a Zen teaching. This view of the individual’s interpenetration in the universe links science and the teachings of the Buddha with scope and majesty.”

  Niwano in Buddhism for Today further connects us with scientific thinking while simultaneously establishing Buddhism as—not a philosophical system only—but one of the most profound religious practices in today’s world. He explains, “Humans are formed by combinations of particles. Looking more deeply, living beings are an accumulation of energy. Evolution culminating in humankind was caused by the urge to live. Life had mind through which it desired to live from the time before it existed on earth. Such a will exists in everything in the universe and exists in us today.”

  His view of the universe and life evolving from a “will of a universal life-force—energy”—transcends theories of evolution, and is one shared by Fritjof Capra. In the film “Mind Walk” the physicist, Sonia, defines evolution, not as adapting, but discovering new forms, to which the poet responds, “You mean I can go on writing poems whether I need to or not?” Her response, “Yes.”

  Whatever caused the universe to come into existence—how and why it happened resulting in the emergence of humankind, and whatever theoretical scientists advance to explain the nature of its origin, more than a few would agree the process was, and continues to be, inevitable—a majestic happening, nothing can stop it. . . “And there are many beautiful arms around us in things we know.”–Poet in “Mind Walk.”

  Only humanity itself is capable of interfering with this natural flow toward the harmonious and productive advance of civilization and humankind. The Buddha’s teachings reveal the purpose of humankind and only through an awareness and implementation of this purpose, realizing our interdependence with each other and with the world around us, will the purpose of humankind be fulfilled.

  Chaotic conditions reported to us these days may cause us to throw up our hands in despair, but the truth is inescapable. To quote physicist Sonia in “Mind Walk,” “Like it or  not, we are all part of one inseparable web of relationships.”