Five Ways to Practise Religion

(Undated notes from a talk delivered by the late Venerable Dr. K Sri Dhammananda Nayaka Maha Thera, Chief Reverend of Malaysia)

These are 5 approaches that people use to practise Buddhism:

1) Traditionally - following what their parents have been doing
2) Culturally - through culture or entertainment, e.g. song and dance
3) Devotion - you'll gain confidence and understanding
4) Intellectually
5) Spiritually

* * *

In teaching Buddhism to the youth, know that their understanding and mental capacity is limited, so you must teach according to their needs. We must teach them in a way that increases confidence. Try to imbue more aspects of freedom and fun.

4 stages of life:
Young (below 18) - You are to focus on your education.
Youth - It's time to for you to experience sensual pleasures in a safe, harmless and respectable way.
Adult - You're matured. Reduce sensual pleasures.
Retiree - Time to reduce burden and responsibilities for a free mind. Recall the good deeds done in your lifetime.

If we are occupied with work, we cannot practise religion. Work helps us to stay focused, control our mind and build skills. However, we must avoid unskilful lifelihood.