[Buddha-l] Re: Diversions, distractions and off-topic discussions

[jkirk]

Times have changed, and to my mind the sutta quoted here
>>is mainly applicable to monastics, although it is also good advice in some 
>>contemporary contexts as well.
>
> Are you of the opinion that Buddha's words on the topics of conversation 
> were merely tailored to sustain sponsorship and avoid punishment? Do you 
> not see anything in these words  that could provide us with guidance for 
> this day and age - or indeed any day and age?
>
> -- 
> Metta
> Mike Austin
==================
No, that is not my opinion, as should have been evident from what I wrote.
If the Buddha had been living in the kind of culture that permitted 
criticism of governments, kings, and congresses, I suspect he might have had 
much to offer that was less quietist than the verses you cited.
But, as I said, "it is also good advice in >>some contemporary contexts as 
well." Everything has a context.
JK