Interdependence As Non-Violence
Interdependence is the only escape from violence. Any time we simplify a complex object, by necessity we are fitting something something into concepts that we have already set up within our logical mind. Parts that don’t fit with our pre-existing internal concept are either ignored or purposefully thrown away. To put this is somewhat Levinasian terms, we are grasping rather than caressing. We’re not seeking to discover with a beginner’s mind; we are reaching out to mold our perceptions into something understandable. This simplification is a form of violence.
In The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching, Thich Nhat Hanh cuts to the heart of the matter with one poignant sentence: “A real being is different from a concept.” To truly understand this, you must understand that concepts are mental constructs. Too often, when we’re getting to know someone, the process basically boils down to a system of linking you to my pre-existing concepts. Thinking about me, you might make the following links within your mind:
- geek
- Christian
- Buddhist
- vegan
- wears glasses
- likes animals
The fact is that no matter how many tags you add or mental flags you set, I cannot be summed up completely by a system of variables. The true nature of reality is not nearly so rigid. Furthermore, in absolute reality, you have to even ask yourself what you mean by me. Are you so sure that you and I are autonomous beings? Can either one of us even exist without an Other to will us into being?
Applied to the religious sphere, it’s helpful to remember that we must also not simplify the truth behind our religious teachings. To avoid doing violence to (or crucifying anew) Christ, I must let go of my concept of Christ. To understand the Buddha, I must stop trying to understand the Buddha.
All reduction and simplification of a complex interdependent whole is a form of violence. Language is a form of violence. The relative realm is a form of violence. To practice non-violence, I must live in the realm of the absolute, of complete interdependence. To lead a life of non-violence, I must give up even my concept of self in favor of the wordless and dynamic truth behind the very concept of concepts.
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