Body Quote by Brad Warner
“Much of the hatred and fear of sexuality found in religions stems from the idea that sex is a thing of the body and that the body must be denied so that the spirit may be elevated. In Buddhism there is no notion that the body is made of inferior matter while the spirit flies free within.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Sitting Still, Talking Loud: A Zen Practice for Everyday Life, Brad Warner, 2007
Religious fear of sexuality arises from viewing the body as inferior to the spirit; Buddhism rejects this dualism.
In simple terms: Seeing the body as bad creates sexual fear; Buddhism sees body and spirit equally.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the body as part of spiritual experience.
Themes
religion
sexuality
spirituality
body-mind
Mood
curious
open
Type
philosophical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- counseling
- education
- personal growth
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Buddhism
dualism
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your view of the body affect your spirituality?
- Can you integrate body positivity into religious practice?
A Different Perspective
Some traditions still hold body‑spirit hierarchies.
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