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Transcending the Human Predicament

by Sangharakshita

In investigating various symbolic elements in the Parable of the Burning House, we are reminded of the importance of responding to 'the call of the Divine'. The general significance of the parable is then discussed under the headings of escapism, universalism and sectarianism.

This talk is part of the series Parables, Myths and Symbols of Mahayana Buddhism in the White Lotus Sutra.

Tracks (click play to listen)

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	1.	Recapitulation of series and introduction (14:28)
	2.	The Parable of the Burning House (7:28)
	3.	The symbolism of the house (3:21)
	4.	The symbolism of fire (7:33)
	5.	Dangers of limiting one's potential (4:18)
	6.	The Buddha as 'Cultural Father' (2:15)
	7.	Buddhism as a voluntary process (3:07)
	8.	The Call of Truth (7:10)
	9.	Being absorbed in the games of life; the universal concept of the Mahayana (11:20)
	10.	Does the Parable teach escapism? (7:59)
	11.	Does the Parable teach universalism? (3:19)
	12.	Is sectarianism necessary? (6:30)
	13.	The world today (2:32)