Buddha, like Jesus Christ, said a lot of Universal truths which do not really show up in the religion itself. What he is saying below for example is not practiced. Even if Buddhism is less intrusive than other religions, priests and monks or Lamas have authority or rather take the authority to “know better” – just like the Pope. But the truth is there is only one authority in your life – You! You are the author of your life and it is a question of response-ability to take full authority. Leave all the other “authorities” to their own intents and just follow YOUR heart. Nothing else is required…
Do not believe anything
because it is said by an authority,
or if it is said to come from angels,
or from Gods,
or from an inspired source.
Believe it only
if you have explored it in your own heart
and mind and body
and found it to be true.
Work out your own path,
through diligence.
