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Roving Over The World
- Book 111: Roving Over The World
- Chapter 22:
A Show On The Galaxy
- Written by Sheng-yen Lu
- Translated by Janny Chow
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In the big red ship, We saw a show on the galaxy. The film gave an introduction on the nine planets in our solar system and the groups of stars in the galaxy.
The cinema in the ship was adequately equipped, the seats were quite comfortable. The hall was divided into two storeys. It gave the impression that it can rival any cinema elsewhere.
When the light was off, we were journeyed to the sky and entered into the star-studded galaxy.
I was thinking:
In the olden days, millions of people prayed to the sun and moon, or the group of stars. The reason might be:
The sky was full of stars which exuded an air of mystery, people can`t help to worship them.
Maybe galaxy itself is a magician who is capable of putting up all kinds of amazing feats to mesmerise the audience.
It is difficult to explain the colorful ring that surrounds planet Saturn.
It is too profound for us to understand.
The stars and the cloud were gyrating.
We saw the stars used in the Western horoscope such as Cancer, Pisces, Capricorn....
We also saw the seven stars of the Northern constellation and the six stars that formed the Southern constellation.
(partly omitted: Grand master used classical chinese to explain the Chinese Astrology, the names and significance of those stars.)
When asked:
\`What do you think of Astrology ?\`
I gave a very frank opinion.
\`I know how it works as I have studied Chinese Astrology before. But if we were to use astrology as a guide for our daily life, then there will be too much unnecessary restrictions in life.\` I added:
\`Astrology is often used to predict a person`s prosperity and otherwise. It has good grounds and can be very accurate, especially when there is no error in plotting the current position. However, as a Buddhist, we seek to realize our mind and let our self nature appear, if we were to indulge in astrology, then we cannot reconcile it with our aim in life.\`
I was asked again.
\`Then what attitude should we hold towards astrology?\`
I replied:
\`We should mingle with the crowd, and try to understand Astrology. However we should not emphasis it too much. On those unlucky days indicated by astrology, we should use the dharma to overcome them. This is using dharma to overwhelm the misfortune.\`
The mystery of universe is very profound.
I have studied subjects like astronomy and astrology, and understand the law of universal gravitation. As the study of Astronomy is still in its infancy, new knowledge is obtained on a daily basis. Therefore, in our life, we must have our own way of living, we should not be bonded less we shall have no room to move.
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