This quote encapsulates the fundamental belief in Tantric Buddhism that there is no concept of sin, as understood in many other religions, where it’s seen as an immoral act against divine law. Instead, Tantric Buddhists believe in the concept of ignorance or stupidity, which is the root cause of suffering for oneself and others.
In this context, “stupidity” does not refer to a lack of intelligence or knowledge, but rather to a lack of awareness or understanding of the true nature of reality, as per Buddhist teachings. This ignorance is what leads to attachment, desire, and ultimately suffering. The idea is that we, through our ignorance, cause suffering to ourselves and others.
Applying this to today’s world or personal development, it suggests that self-awareness and understanding are crucial. Instead of focusing on avoiding sin or wrongdoing, one should focus on gaining wisdom and understanding. This could mean understanding the impermanence of things, the interconnectedness of all beings, or the true nature of happiness and suffering.
In terms of personal development, it implies that growth comes from self-awareness and understanding, not from adhering to a set of external rules or laws. It encourages introspection and self-improvement through learning and understanding, rather than guilt or fear of punishment.
For instance, instead of feeling guilty for a mistake (a ‘sin’ in other beliefs), one should understand why it happened, what led to it, and how to prevent it in the future. This is a more constructive and compassionate approach to personal development and growth.
In a broader societal context, this belief could foster more understanding and empathy. Instead of condemning others for their ‘sins’, we could strive to understand their ignorance or lack of awareness that led them to cause suffering. This could potentially lead to more effective solutions to societal problems, as it addresses the root cause (ignorance) rather than the symptoms (wrong actions).
