Originally Posted by
Jundo
Others have expressed it nicely.
I will just add that, in Shikantaza, one sits as what is.
If ISKON or Kabbalah or Jesus or whirling Dervishes are right, just sit and live gently. That is what is.
And if neither ISKON nor Kabbalah nor Jesus nor whirling Dervishes are right, just sit and live gently. That is what is.
It is the same as one can sit Shikantaza if it is raining outside or not raining.
Personally, I do not practice ISKON or Kabbalah or Jesus or whirling Dervishes, but some folks may find something there. I tend to shy away from belief systems, even in Buddhism (even traditional Soto Zen has its share of rather wild beliefs), that to my mind offer rather fantastical explanations for the world and how it works that do not seem to bear up to reality or go much beyond human imaginings. However, I am not the last word, and someone might find value and truth there in such belief and faith.
I feel that one can practice Zen with many beliefs, so long as they are not hateful or violent (the hate, violence and mental divisions would cause this Practice to go to a very dark place, so not that).
Good to see you, Seiryu.
Gassho, J
STLah