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Buddhist monk in Thailand
Photo by Tevaprapas Makklay
The struggle for minds, hearts and souls in American prisons is an old one, marked in recent times by a competition largely between the Abrahamic faiths, including Christianity, Islam and Judaism. Not a few convicts over the years have accepted the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ into their hearts and become "born again" enough to impress the public and parole boards alike, whether or not their efforts are sincere. In the past couple of decades, there has been a concerted effort to Islamize our prisons, with Muslim chaplains and preachers popping up like mushrooms to proselytize prisoners on a large scale. These efforts have had some disturbing results, including producing scores of violent convicts and ex-convicts who justify their past and future crimes using scripture.
Recent examples of ex-convict Muslim converts who have gone on allegedly to commit crimes include Michael C. Finton, also known as Talib Islam, who was arrested in September 2009 for plotting to bomb a federal courthouse in Illinois, and the imam in Michigan, Christopher Thomas, also known as Luqman Ameen Abdullahborn, who was killed in a shootout with the FBI in October 2009. There have been many more known examples of Muslim converts justifying crime sprees in the name of Islam, both in the U.S. and abroad. Undoubtedly there are numerous others who are not known but who are actively involved in jihadist cells around the world. A report in 2005 concerning the amount of Muslim converts in American prisons set the estimate at some 250,000 or a quarter of a million, the bulk of whom are black. The situation of Islam in prisons, with the potential of "radicalizing" violent convicts, is worrisome enough for law enforcement and political agencies both in the U.S. and elsewhere to study the "potentially toxic mix of extremist ideology and a criminal past." All things considered, it would seem that Islamizing our prisons is not a good idea, although some inmates claim to benefit from Islamic spiritual practices.
What about Buddhism?
Another option for inmates who would like to develop a greater spirituality, but without the potential antisocial behavior and national security threat, may be the Eastern religion of Buddhism. It is entirely understandable that someone in prison would want to make the most of his or her time there, including doing penance for any crimes and engaging in intense self-reflection for relief from "sins," to use religious terminology. In order to escape from or thwart possible criminal or "sinful" behavior, individuals in the East at times have volunteered to confine themselves for long periods away from human society. During these times, they have engaged in self-awareness and meditation, potentially to the point of "enlightenment," which includes an improved morality because of increased empathy.
Hence, it is sensible and logical to introduce such "self-help" concepts into prisons, even if they are not part of an organized religious tradition. In this regard, Buddhism may turn out to be the most satisfying of the various religious ideologies in terms of fostering introspection and moral improvement. It is uncommon to find a Buddhist fanatical enough to harm others, and this state of respect for oneself and others is intrinsic to Buddhist belief.
Historically, Buddhism has not presented itself flawlessly, and the same atrocities we find in other faiths have manifested themselves in Buddhism as well, including deadly intolerance of other religions and virulent sexism. However, compared to other religions, especially Christianity and Islam, these atrocities have been relatively rare. Moreover, by its nature Buddhism has always been open to reform, and what we find in Western cultures (and prisons) is the mildest and, possibly, most enlightened form of the faith.
As a major example, a scrutiny of Buddhist literature that influences the population at large, particularly in the English-speaking world, reveals a heavy emphasis on peace, peace within and outside of oneself, as the ultimate path to Godhood. While Buddhism does not foster the idea of a giant man somewhere outside of oneself, it does focus on understanding the divinity within all creation. Again, Buddhism is not perfect—and it has had its fierce detractors over the centuries—but its main focus really is peace, because it does not emphasize the differences between peoples or individuals, other than that some are "awake" while others "asleep."
"There simply is no need to spread Buddhism by the sword, no Buddhist god to champion through invasion, rape, pillage and slaughter, no holy book or prophet to riot over."
Yet, even in its depiction of "other"—those who are "not like us"—Buddhism emphasizes understanding and empathy, not divisiveness and hostility. Buddhism also runs the gamut of human perceptions, since, while Tibetan Buddhism maintains a raucous display of deities, Zen requires little more than water and wood. Importantly, Buddhism has no jealous gods—and that is a major difference between it and the Abrahamic religions. There simply is no need to spread Buddhism by the sword, no Buddhist god to champion through invasion, rape, pillage and slaughter, no holy book or prophet to riot over.
Buddhism in English prisons the "fastest growing religion"
The news may come as a surprise that in Great Britain—where the dramatic Islamization of British prisoners has been noted—it is Buddhism which of late is considered the fastest-growing religion in that nation's prisons. The numbers are small but, surprisingly, as Martin Beckford relates in the Telegraph, the "rate of growth in the Buddhist jail population outstrips that of Muslims, whose numbers have more than doubled from 3,681 to 9,795 over the past 11 years." American prisons are also experiencing an increased interest in Buddhism.
Ultimately, there is a reason we rarely hear about Buddhist terrorists, murderers, rapists, thieves and so on. In consideration of this fact, it might be wise to increase the availability of Buddhistic thought within prisons, the realm often of the most difficult and hardened individuals on the planet. Increasing difficulties and hardening via fanaticism that teaches supremacy of the faithful and hatred for unbelievers—to be manifested in a myriad of aggressive, hostile and violent ways—is certainly not the answer. Nor is proselytizing the projection of one's life and responsibility on a giant man in the sky an appropriate solution. Teaching how to create a peaceful mind, body and soul represents the most productive path for all human beings, whether incarcerated or not. For, in the end, if we do not develop our own innate morality and integrity, we remain in a prison of our own making.
Sources & Further Reading
IL Federal building targeted by Muslim convert
Detroit Jihad
I see Richard Reids in jail every day
Islam in America's Prisons
Muslim Converts in Prison
Buddhism is fastest-growing religion in English jails over past decade
Prison inmates turn to Buddhism
Prison Dharma
Is Buddhism all it's cracked up to be?
Comments
Yoga best. NO religion. Those making so much $ on Yoga need give back for free. Prisons good starting place.
Very nice to see that positive change is taking place. Perhaps the "regular people" could learn a thing or two from these convicted criminals who now practice peace and understanding.
Got your e-mail just now and read through it. There is one part I would disagree with.
"...the realm of the most difficult and hardened individuals on the planet."
Having been there I can tell you that's not really accurate. The majority of people who go to prison get there as a result of using drugs. There are some people I met there who needed to be there because there is no where else for them to be held away from other people. Not that many, probably not what most people think.
And of course I think we should introduce people everywhere to sane systems, such as Buddhism. Here is an interesting read - dgswilson.com/wp/2009/11/07/daoism-good-science/
Thanks, Wilson. Of course, I did not mean a generalization that ALL prisoners were hardened criminals. I have inserted the word "often" to clarify. However, it is clear that the non-violent drug offenders are dominated in prisons by the tougher ones, thereby making the prisons the realm of the most difficult and hardened individuals. The word "realm" means the "domain" or "special province," meaning in this case that the thugs rule, not that there aren't any non-thugs.
On the other hand, I suspect that any religion, no matter how benign and peaceful, could be perverted into murderous violence. Look at the two most popular religions today, Xianity and Islam, both claiming to be religions of peace and love, and yet look at their track records. In the spirit of "make something foolproof and they will come up with a better fool," Buddhism in the hands of violent criminals might just become another sad story on humanity's march to the Lemming Cliff at the edge of the sea. In my humble opinion, of course.
Though one can find plenty of superstitious ideas in the Buddhist tradition and in the way Buddhism is practiced in many countries, there is also a strong rational tradition within it, such as in the writings of Nagarjuna and others of the Madhyamika school. Buddhist scholars say that Sakyamuni Buddha refused to answer metaphysical questions. His main teaching was about the cause of suffering and the way out of it. Buddhism's emphasis on self insight over dogma would seem to me to be better for helping convicts overcome antisocial tendencies than religions that demand obedience to imaginary deities.
As someone who follows Buddhism and is Atheist, also I have other life experiences which lead me to think it's not a good idea.
First Buddhism is not a religion in my eyes, but a life philosophy. Second it's something that is arrived at, I wasn't approached by a master, I decided to read a book about it on my own.
I've known to many people who have claimed a religion who are criminals who have done hard time, and they are for the most part making motions.
I would not like to proselytize Buddhists, it's just a bad policy. I think it's OK to advance some of the tenets of Buddhism without saying it's Buddhism like non-violence, the interdependence of life, and mindful reflection or meditation.
These people are of all types of dispositions so I think it is a grave mistake to again try to push a single solution on them, as any tradition can become radicalized if it is taught to a radical person. It is not the philosophy that changes people, people change and then their philosophy
Most people who go to prison have serious personality disorders. I doubt Buddhism or any other religion could change who the person is. Just my thoughts.
Jack: Ofc it can. Everone is at their own level and so it should be. Also, I agree with Seth, buddhism is not a religion as such, more a life philosophy.
God B Less
"Knowing thyself" is a great idea. Meditation, introspection and time to oneself, all of which can be done behind bars would be a great idea too. Jack said "Most people who go to prison have serious personality disorders. I doubt Buddhism or any other religion could change who the person is." I strongly disagree. These people get put behind bars and are lost in life because they have lost the connection to SELF. their spiritual awareness, their higher selves. Getting these people in better touch with their spiritual selves is an excellent idea. This article reminded me of an article I read a while ago, concerning Reiki in prison. Being a Reiki Master I happen to know that Reiki is very good for assisting people in "knowing thyselves" also. ;-) As for Buddhism, Buddha is a MYTH. So why put that label on it, and why refer to it as "religion"? I despise that word. I MUCH prefer the word SPIRITUAL. How about "spiritual awareness" training? Getting them in tune with spirit.
this all dose not move me. they is No believe Or life we all programmed to mind in which ever way one lives.
dont change my program am just doing my time
Check out the movie "Dhamma Brothers" it is about bringing Vipassana Meditation into prisions in the US, wonderful movie where you can see the effect of spirituality on these prisoners.
Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, is one of India's most ancient techniques of meditation. It was rediscovered by Gotama Buddha more than 2500 years ago and was taught by him as a universal remedy for universal ills, i.e., an Art Of Living.
This non-sectarian technique aims for the total eradication of mental impurities and the resultant highest happiness of full liberation. Healing, not merely the curing of diseases, but the essential healing of human suffering, is its purpose.
Vipassana is a way of self-transformation through self-observation. It focuses on the deep interconnection between mind and body, which can be experienced directly by disciplined attention to the physical sensations that form the life of the body, and that continuously interconnect and condition the life of the mind. It is this observation-based, self-exploratory journey to the common root of mind and body that dissolves mental impurity, resulting in a balanced mind full of love a
and compassion.
The scientific laws that operate one's thoughts, feelings, judgements and sensations become clear. Through direct experience, the nature of how one grows or regresses, how one produces suffering or frees oneself from suffering is understood. Life becomes characterized by increased awareness, non-delusion, self-control and peace.
(lifted from a meta search on this subject.)
I identify as a Catholic Christian but I don't believe Jesus is God or that his death saved the world. Where Christianity goes wrong is imposing BELIEFS on others. If Christians can do prison ministry without that but with compassion--as today many Christians do--they can achieve the good results of other spiritual systems, religious and secular. This is the message of my book God Is Not Three Guys in the Sky.
Man should learn about his 'own' Inner Prison House Within Himself! Where All his troubles begin! So says Ancient Egypt!
Good article A.S. Hope you all enjoy my postings at A.S. Atheist No 4 article...
Buddhism is a good fit for people subject to an empire. It is the ideal slave religion for an enslaved people who believe that they are free. Buddhists make tough, noncomplaining soldier warriors ready to die for the empire. A recent example would be Japan in WW2.
The New World Order crowd is shopping for a NWO religion. Perhaps with some minor modifications, such as glorification of the warrior cult, Buddhism will fit the bill.
Very thoughtful.
What's so funny about peace, love and understanding?
We prisoners need more of this.
U.S. covern agencies have long been taking advantage of their "captive audience" to promote all kinds of cult addictions withing prisons. Charles Manson is a probable example of a "Manchurian Candidate" type cultivated by covert agencies. It so happens that Islam had more appeal to Afrio-American anti-social types because of the radical image created by the "Nation of Islam." This is based on the historical antagonism between Muslim Africa and Christian Europe. This antagonism has been greatly increased in recent years by the Western drive to dominate the Middle East and Central Asia. The Afghan Muslim militants trained and armed by the U.S. were also intended to destabilize the entire region--not only to fight the Soviets. That explains the tolerance of Islam, especially of its most militant forms, by U.S. prison officials who toe the 'party line' of the powers-that-be. They are out to promote politican and social divisiveness in any way possible.
This is a good idea. Buddhism is working within and not looking for answers elsewheres.Proselytizing gives way to .This is a great article.
This sounds simple but I think its all about respect! Respect and love begin in the SELF! Self betrayal is to me ... "The root of all Evil" Who doesn't love themselves is divided, thus anxiety and finaly auto cannibalism, consuming the self! Cowards are some of the most dangerous people because they are not capable of anything noble. They cannot love the self or others because they do not really exist as a Whole. They are forced by their weakness to be parasitical. When they "love" another it is "co-dependent" love, ..mutual parsitism. I personaly believe the universe unfolds according to reason and that it is of divine essence and further that people are born into what they deserve (Karma Like).. the rest is up to them! This is the justice of the universe.. Its really up to each one of us as individuals to live with dignity or not. When we cheat in the game of life, we cheat ourselves, we are made of the same material. In the end life is about honorable competition not Cannibalism.
Hi, Acharya S , I just wanted to say that I always enjoy your column, it is so refreshing, you are so full of wisdom as you are beautiful. You're my inspiration I'll get deeper on my research and I'll pass it along to other so they also feel inspire to do the same. I wish you well.
This is always a hot topic, which I've written about a few times previously.
Relevant info:
1) The issues with the history of Buddhism tend to be of a cultural nature. The Suttas are not sexist, classist or racist.
2) There is no dogma or compulsory belief. If you want to know something, you have to ask the right question to the right person. It is very much a personal journey. Belief or non-belief in god is up to the individual.
3) Superstitions in Buddhism are entirely cultural, and are not a part of the Suttas in any way.
4) In Buddhism one is encouraged to observe cause and effect (karma) to learn how to live skillfully. The spiritually immature are likely to misunderstand the results, so a teacher is useful. The prison programs help facilitate necessary teaching.
Those who are convinced that life is violent and unpleasant are likely to continue the cycle of violence unless they are guided away from it. Self-study can only go so far.
The real crime is doing nothing.
Great post Acharya! "merci":)
"The religion of the future will be a cosmic religion. It should transcend personal God and avoid dogma and theology. Covering both the natural and the spiritual, it should be based on a religious sense arising from the experience of all things natural and spiritual as a meaningful unity. Buddhism answers this description. If there is any religion that could cope with modern scientific needs it would be Buddhism" ~Albert Einstein~
To indulge in comments is not the Buddhist way. However, with that being said and deeply submerged in the ocean of Samsara, one might question the veracity of anything that is being "said."In other words "you don't have to be a Buddhist to know nothing."
I think this is a great idea and start to truly rehabilitating our prison population. True rehabilitation has been lacking, and is key to ensuring that if they are released they wont go back and if they are there for life they can live with themselves. Great article!
Those who speak do not know. Those who know do not speak.
Buddhism is an exceptionally difficulty study, more like a way of life than a western "religion". Buddhist leaders have contributed their fair share of atrocities to the world's suffering (Pol Pot, et al).
However, the writer has a valid point that prison, where presumably the most violet and untamable natures lie, might be a ripe place to hoe this particularly difficult row.
Alan Watts, an Episcopal priest turned buddhist, predicted in a little-known essay 1946 that in about 60 years there would be a great global spiritual rising that converges Buddhism with other world religions. We may be poised to see whether this is accurate.
Spirtual Satanism is superior over Buddhism.
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