OPINION

Exploiting the sacred

Re: "Buddhism is always oddly political", (Opinion, Nov 29).

The article by Guanxiong Qi sheds light on the political use of Buddhist relics. While the historical account is interesting and informative, I would like to highlight some critical points.

It is unfortunate to see how Buddhist relics are instrumentalised for political purposes. This contradicts the Buddha's teachings, which focus on inner peace and personal awakening.

The emphasis on relics as national treasures and their use for diplomatic missions neglects the universal and apolitical nature of Buddhist teachings. Buddha himself taught compassion and wisdom beyond national boundaries and political agendas.

The Post's removal of critical commentary on these issues shows a worrying tendency towards censorship that hinders open discourse. It is crucial that opinions and criticism can be heard and discussed in public to promote deeper understanding and a balanced perspective. It is important to preserve the original teachings of Buddhism and not to distort them with political interests. An open and respectful dialogue on these issues is necessary to preserve the true meaning and essence of Buddhism.

If the Post allows Guanxiong Qi to spread nationalist Buddhist ideology among readers, it should also allow readers to articulate their opposition to this political instrumentalisation of Buddhism.

Keep it classy

Re: "Leave it out", (PostBag, Dec 2).

I share the same feeling with Jerry Feldman about the verbal catfight among contributors in the PostBag forum. Personal attacks, despite in verbal form, should be avoided in PostBag. The space should be for rational expression.

Equal justice, Joe?

Re: "Biden says he has pardoned his son", (World, Dec 3).

Any respect I had for the president of the USA has now been taken away by his decision to pardon his son. Of course, he loves and supports his son, but as the leader of a so-called democratic country, he should ensure equal justice for all. It shows that Thailand is not on its own when what appears to be a two-tier justice system is in operation. So sad, Joe.

Art goes bananas

Re: "The fruit vendor who sold a US$6.2 million banana for 25c", (Life, Dec 2) & "Banana taped to wall sells for B215m in New York", (Life, Nov 22).

What is art? A real definition is too broad for the letters to the editor word limits, but it once involved paint or a chisel, although that was a long time ago.

Modern art now involves even a banana and then its consumption, actually a literal consumption in this case. Is this art or a strange method of getting publicity after spending millions on a banana and some sticky tape?

Perhaps a better way to spend the money would have been to provide free meals, including a banana each, to the numerous people who need it.

Maybe I need to broaden my knowledge of art or to get an orange and a nail to create my own. If you have $5 million to sponsor me, thanks, but wake up and give it to charity.