Tibetan Buddhist Teachings

During class discussions and according to readings, space is a "primary means of orientation in the world - physically, socially, and cosmologically. The need for spatial orientation is universal among humans, but the meanings of space are not" (Delaney,1940:35). Tibetan Buddhism places great emphasis on the mind and the space which can be explored within the mind, this is a unique concept. The journey of enlightenment and the ultimate "space" of Nirvana are key concepts of Buddhist teachings. The space within the mind, clarity, peace, and understanding is just as important if not more so than the physical space one occupies. In order to arrive at this space one must follow the three paths of Buddhism. The first path is that of Listner (Sravaka), an individual who follows this path seeks to extinguish all external impurities. The second path is that of Solitary Buddha; Solitary Buddha exists when Buddhism does not exist. The third path is that of Bodhisattva, one who seeks enlightenment and Buddhahood to help others.

The human body and the space that the human body occupies are very important according to Tibetan culture, as it applies to Buddhism. The human body is another key element of Tibetan Buddhist teachings. Expressions and actions that the body makes are very important. The existence of the human body must be considered very carefully, one must guard one's body and use the body to practice virtue. While the body is important in Buddhism the act of giving up the body is considered the most important act a practitioner of Buddhism can accomplish. It is important to note that while eventually one release one's self from the body it is not necessary to view the body as insignificant or trivial, but instead as a stage that one must pass through. Practicing Buddhism happens in stages; the time for moving from one stage to the next varies from person to person.