Hi people,

I wanted to revisit the Hermeneutics readings from last Thursday a little, and further discuss the key Buddhist lesson regarding the "value" of a teaching.  Teachings are not supposed to be simply listened to, but instead, their meanings should be fully absorbed.  One who does not understand every aspect of the lesson will not get the full effect, "Not examining the meaning of those teachings with wisdom, they do not gain a reflective acceptance of them' (Ganeri 43).  This concept and approach to learning can be perfectly applied to one's success in the educational system.  A student who only memorizes material and sits quietly through a class may be able to pass a quiz, but unless they put in the work, and learn the material for its true meaning, they will fail when they are tested on the conceptual understanding of it.  Having the right mindset as a student is also a crucial attribute.  The student who is there to learn for the right reasons will most certainly get the most out of the lesson.  The simile of the snake is a great example of how someone who attempts to wrongly grasp the meaning of a teaching ends up "getting bit."  The student must be patient, and begin to learn when, and only when they are ready to do so.  But like the man "needing a snake, seeking a snake, wandering in search of a snake," a pupil will never get the full effect of what is being taught.  Education is about comprehending the meaning with wisdom, and in Buddhism, only those who progress on the pace fit for their own individual selves will eventually acquire what they seek.

I want to hear your ideas!