Trappings

Yesterday I was pushed out of the way in a discount shoe store by two robed Tibetan Buddhist monks, who jabbered away in their native tongue and made no effort to acknowledge my presence. I could have been a post or a tree as far as they appeared to be concerned. Their entitlement was palpable. Their rudeness was obvious. 

A better illustration of the hollowness of religion could not be imagined. Especially a religion founded on a philosophy that honors the sanctity of all life. The trappings of Buddhism are not Buddhism.

In a superficial society, the trappings of a desired image can be perceived as reality. A man in Rome in bejeweled splendor is perceived as a moral authority. Bearded Hasidim are perceived as more pious Jews. Politicians who hold prayer meetings in football stadiums are seen as bearing witness to some great Truth. The trappings of religion always get attention. Scoundrels have used them for centuries to manipulate people for power and riches. 

As a humanist, I perceive any trappings of religion as fair warning. Trappings can be simply a trap. The behavior of two Tibetan monks, looking for sneakers, was a good reminder.