In modern society, belief is often viewed as irrational, with strong religious connotations. We tend to trust science because it is grounded in empirical evidence and facts. However, even science relies on a belief—the belief in cause and effect. Scientists believe that if conditions remain the same, the outcome will be 100% consistent. If the outcomes differ, there must be a cause. Without this underlying conviction, science would not stand.

Belief is the motive force that settles the mind. It is likened to the root of a tree. Strong belief is like a tree being firmly rooted on the ground. Suppose you planted a tree. The next month, you found a better location and moved it there. Then, the following month, you discovered an even better spot and transferred it again. What would happen to the tree? You gave the tree the best condition ever. Nevertheless, it would wither and struggle. Only when roots are firmly established in the ground can a tree thrive. Similarly, if you find a teaching reliable, you should believe in it so your practice can deepen.

Belief is a decision. You could say something must be believable to be believed, and it has little to do with your choice. That’s right, but let me tell you a story. Let’s say I’m going to take a flight to Hawaii. Then, I become anxious. What if the flight might crash? The statistics say it’s safe, but there still is a chance. What should I do? I need to make a decision whether I believe it’s safe or not.

When you decide to believe something, you should think about it carefully because there is a risk. When you buy a used product online, there is a risk you get ripped off. You should thoroughly investigate whether it is reliable or not. Then you shouldn’t take too much time making your choice because you might miss the opportunity. How long will you think about your lunch menu? You wouldn’t think too long because the stakes are low. 

How long will you think about marrying someone? You need to be very certain if the person is the one. Your whole life is at stake. However, you wouldn’t think about it for like 20 years. Practice is the same. Belief in practice involves two steps. You should choose your belief or practice wisely. What kind of teaching or belief will you choose? You should take your time.

Second, you must fully believe in the teaching and put that into practice wholeheartedly. If you’re taking a flight, you should get on the plane and sit. What if you’re jumping on and off the plane because you’re not certain? You would have better just take a different mode of transportation.

Belief is the motive force that settles the mind. Belief is taking root and not moving around. There is a risk when it comes to believing something. You may refuse to believe anything. However, that’s also a form of belief. You chose not to practice the teachings of any religion. If you think about it, whatever you believe or think comes from someone else’s idea in the past.

What do you believe? I believe the buddhadharma is the safest and fastest way to happiness.

Rev. Dogun