Just the word "faith" brings up strong feelings for us - especially depending on what our religious upbringing was like. Some embrace the idea of having faith, but for others faith has connotations of blind faith or belief without true understanding, perception, or discrimination.
Buddhist faith (saddha in Pali) is translated as "to place the heart upon, to have confidence in". This definition of faith is very different from blind faith. Blind faith connotes being told to have faith or having faith imposed on us. Saddha connotes faith coming from intuition, reason and experience.
Intuition is defined as instinctive knowing without the use of rational processes. An example of an intuitive experience is meeting someone and intuitively knowing the person is someone who can be trusted. When I became a Buddhist, I intuitively knew that Buddhism was what I had been looking for as a way to live a compassionate and kind life. As a result of practicing Buddhism, I have met many people who have become dear friends and I have had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe.
Reason means a rational motive for a belief or action. So, for example, after practicing Buddhist principles, I know that my life has changed for the better. I know that living an ethical lifestyle leads to happiness for myself and others. I have more patience and I am a kinder person. I am experiencing emotional prosperity.
Experience a particular instance of personally encountering or undergoing something. My experience with meditation has resulted in knowing that it is a helpful tool to become more aware of myself and others.
Having faith is related to having an open mind, an open heart, an openness to new experiences and people. Having faith can lead to abundance and prosperity. What are your experiences of faith?
Nancy Nicolazzo (Saddhamala) is a twenty-year veteran of teaching, consulting and coaching and the founder of MindfulWorkshops.
As a mindfulness coach, Nancy leverages what she has learned to offer a unique, relevant and valuable perspective to individuals and groups.
For a chance to win a free month of mindfulness coaching, click here http://mindfulworkshops.com
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