20 MORE religions and faith practices 266

The Search for Peace in Times of Chaos—Volume result from the strengthening of concentration, and oneness of mind with Buddha).” Traditionally, Buddhists have believed that a person who eats these foods will suffer the following ill effects: ƒ His blood and flesh will be rejected by the gods, and the heavens will distance themselves far from him ƒ His breath is always foul; therefore, all gods and saints will reject him ƒ If eaten cooked, these foods will arouse lust and cause explosive temper ƒ If eaten raw, they will increase one’s anger and cause bad body odor that will not please the gods but will stimulate interested “hungry ghosts” who will hover around and kiss one’s lips Being near ghosts is believed to hinder one’s ‡Ž‹‰Š–‡‡–Ǥ19 The greatest achievement is selflessness The greatest worth is self-mastery The greatest quality is seeking to serve others The greatest precept is continual awareness The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the world’s ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind The greatest patience is humility The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances (–‹•Šƒ, eleventh century Tibetan Buddhist master)20