Guiding Principles
Eco Dharma means ensuring a better harmony between man and nature based on the understanding of interdependent origination. One of the fundamental teachings of Buddhism recognizes that no one being or entity exists entirely by itself. When one sees the law of cause and effect, and of interdependence, it is clear that the pure, positive values of respect and responsibility are the best response to creating and sustaining long-term prosperity and for creating the auspicious circumstances through which spiritual growth can mature and flourish. From a Buddhist perspective, nature and spirit are united, and not divided, as tends to be the view of science, which separates man and nature, and objectifies it. For Buddhists, nature is not static, but a living dynamic, supporting countless beings. Therefore prayer is appropriate, as a means of invoking and maintaining a positive and a sacred relationship. Raising prayer flags for peace, wisdom, harmony, loving-kindness and compassion shows a commitment and a constant recognition of this truth. |
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Jigme Rinpoche talks about Eco Dharma |
Eco Dharma is not so much about changing the world or about changing others, it's more about changing one's self and how one relates to the world. Eco Dharma is about overcoming ego-centric habit patterns; it is about being engaged and creating a positive environment around one's self by being sensitive to others. This requires personal humility and confidence in goodness. Teach by example, through kindness and gentleness, and not through aggression. Eco Dharma is not about being against anything, or about protests. If one is frustrated with the way things are, that is only because one wishes things to be better. Just see that for what it is and do what you can to build capacity. If you are upset, don't be upset with the person, rather be upset with the action. If someone is being difficult, one should have more compassion, because they are creating even more problems for themselves and others. Eco Dharma is therefore as much a journey of the heart as it is a journey of wisdom: when negative actions are abandoned, automatically positive qualities shine forth. It is an almost stunning truth in its simplicity and power, that – once personally adopted and lived – starts to become manifest around one’s self.
Eco Dharma embraces both the spirituality of man and of nature, and views sustainability as a sacred practical support and a precious spiritual expression. For example, to offer water is an entire practice in itself. It is good to meditate on that, as it includes seeing water on the spiritual level, not just the mundane level. Thus, Eco Dharma is a perspective grounded in reality, joyfully lived, and held through reverence.
“Destruction of nature and natural resources results from ignorance, greed and a lack of respect for the earth’s living things… It is not difficult to forgive destruction in the past that resulted from ignorance. Today, however, we have access to more information, and it is essential that we re-examine ethically what we have inherited, what we are responsible for, and what we will pass on to coming generations… Clearly, this is a pivotal generation. Many of earth’s habitats, animals and plants that we know as rare may not be known at all by future generations. We have the capability and the responsibility. We must act before it is too late.”
--His Holiness the XIV Dalai Lama.