Times have been unusually rough with fears the economy may never completely rebound as high levels of unemployment, poverty, and homelessness become commonplace. A deep feeling that more must be done in a search for positive social changes has many Buddhists in Syracuse interested in the position by the Dalai Lama that faith alone is not sufficient and that one should strive to become a 21st century Buddhist.
YC. Dhardhowa has reported for The Tibet Post International "Faith Alone Is Insufficient - Be a 21st Century Buddhist: His Holiness." During recent teachings at Gyudmed Tantric University in Karnataka state, India the Dalai Lama told followers that one should strive to become a 21st century Buddhist with both traditional values and with a modern education. The Dalai Lama went on to say it is important to understand Buddhism in order to develop a higher faith.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama has commented "I always say that study and practice are both very important, but they must go hand in hand. Not merely belief - faith alone is not sufficient. Faith needs to be supported by reason. Whatever we learn from study we need to apply sincerely in our daily lives." The Dalai Lama has also re-emphasized a popular theme of his that there is a need for peace and compassion in the modern world. He has pointed out the the nearly 300 volumes of Gautam Buddha's teachings should not only be the object of prayer and prostration, but that Buddhists must also engage in the study and analysis of the Buddha's teachings, instead of simply relying on faith. It appears to be good advice in troubled times to become 21st century Buddhists.
