Buddhism and Gestalt, Gestalt and Buddism

• Buddhism and Gestalt by Philip Brownell, 12/6/96
  
  

True spiritual principles are never in conflict. This spiritual principle is challenged by the apparent conflict(s) between Gestalt theory and the practice of Buddhism. It will help if, first of all, we remember that we are comparing theory to practice. Gestalt therapy is grounded in theory; Buddhism is grounded in practice. Zen, which is the distillation of this practice, is – to use the most laconic spiritual language possible – SITTING STILL AND DOING NOTHING. Gestalt theory (and practice) is about movement, movement through the cycle of experience. Zazen (the basic technique of Zen, the distillation of Buddhism) is about movement AS IT OCCURS IN THE EXPERIENCE OF SITTING STILL AND DOING NOTHING. As I think of it, at this moment and in this place, no conflict exists.

Excellent question but, whenever possible, try to form your question in terms of an answer. It saves on the light bill.

Good work, my friend.

• Which Paradox Are We Talking About? by Stuart Stawman, 12/19/96