Vishvavajra
Active Member
Tradition is important. Every traditional religion was based on what came before, even when it deviated from it. The reason why it's important is that religion is a kind of culture and needs to remind people that they are a part of something bigger than themselves. Also, we rely on the wisdom of those who came before so as not to have to reinvent the wheel in every generation. And you really can't come up with teachings to lead to a degree of cultivation that you haven't already attained. At the same, time, tradition should be a tool, not the master.
People can approach the mystery however they choose, and every journey is unique. But in attempting to create one's own religion there is a great danger of just reinforcing the ego and not actually making any progress. That's why New Age paths don't really lead anywhere: when it's all about "me," it's very hard to get beyond the self to something truly profound.
People can approach the mystery however they choose, and every journey is unique. But in attempting to create one's own religion there is a great danger of just reinforcing the ego and not actually making any progress. That's why New Age paths don't really lead anywhere: when it's all about "me," it's very hard to get beyond the self to something truly profound.