Question asked by Eli Levine
Good afternoon Pastors,
I think I am experiencing doubt and confusion about the teachings which, I know, is not healthy. I suppose it may have directly come from my upbringing in skepticism rather than faith. But how does one country this effectively, especially when they don't have a teacher to guide them? Part of me thinks that it may be because I am only 25 and don't know what I'm gor oing to be doing next year, let alone in this lifetime. How can one conquer this doubt permanently and easily so that I can move forward with some greater confidence? Is this a car of things getting harder before they are better?
I hope you can help. You're the only viable Sangha connection that I have. Thank you!
Dear Eli Levine,
If you wish to follow the Vajrayana path, you will need to find a spiritual guide who will give you the instructions and the guidance that you need. If you practise according to the teachings, all your doubts and confusion will be removed and your mind will be clear and stable.
Doubt is not countered by faith. It is countered by wisdom. Wisdom comes from studying the Dharma, understanding it thoroughly and practising it with a lot of effort. Doubt is eliminated permanently when one becomes a stream enterer.
There is an article by H.E. Tsem Rinpoche in this blog entitled “Excellent Guidelines for Students”. In the article, there are guidelines given by Zasep Rinpoche which will be very useful for you. Here is the link: https://www.tsemrinpoche.com/tsem-tulku-rinpoche/buddhas-dharma/guidelines-for-students.html.