Halloween 萬勝節

 

Halloween, celebrated on October 31st, has origins that date back over 2,000 years to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain. This day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter—a time often associated with human death.

10月31日慶祝的萬聖節，其起源可以追溯到兩千多年前古老的凱爾特人的薩溫節 (Samhain)。這一天標誌著夏季和收穫的結束，以及黑暗、寒冷的冬季的開始——這個時期通常與人類死亡聯繫在一起。

Celtics believed that on the night before the new year (Celts celebrated their new year on November 1st), the boundary between the worlds of the living and the dead blurred, and the ghosts of the dead returned to earth. To commemorate the event, they built huge bonfires, wore costumes, and offered sacrifices.

凱爾特人相信在11月1日新年的前一天晚上，生者世界和死者世界之間的界限變得模糊，死者的鬼魂回到了地球。為了紀念這一事件，他們生起巨大的篝火，穿上盛裝，獻上祭品。

By the 9th century, the influence of Christianity had spread into Celtic lands. In 1000 A.D., the church made November 2nd All Souls’ Day (or Alholowmesse, from Middle English, meaning All Saints' Day). Since that, the traditional Samhain began confused with the All Soul's day and to be called All-Hallows, eventually, Halloween. In its origins and practices, does not directly relate to the belief in Jesus or the core tenets of Christianity. However, like many Christian holidays, was syncretized with local customs to ease the transition for local converts. For some Christians, Halloween is seen as a time to remember the saints (hallows) and the faithful departed.

到了九世紀，基督教的影響力已經蔓延到凱爾特人的土地上。西元1000年，教會將11月2日定為萬靈節（All Souls’ Day或Alholowmesse，源自中古英語，意為諸聖節）。從那時起，傳統的薩溫節開始與萬靈節混淆，並被稱為All-Hallows，最終被稱為萬聖節（Halloween)。就其起源和實踐而言，這節日與基督信仰或基督教的核心教義沒有直接關係。然而，像許多基督教節日一樣，它與當地習俗相融合，以方便當地的信眾的過渡。對一些基督徒來說，萬聖節被視為紀念聖徒（聖徒）和逝去的信徒的時刻。

For many, Halloween is a secular celebration focused on fun, community, and creativity. It’s an opportunity for children and adults alike to dress up, share spooky stories, and enjoy festive activities.

對許多人來說，萬聖節是一個注重樂趣、社區和創造力的世俗慶祝活動。這是兒童和成人盛裝打扮、分享恐怖故事和享受節日活動的機會。

Some Christians and religious groups feel that Halloween’s pagan origins and its associations with the supernatural and macabre make it inappropriate for those who want to keep their practices closely aligned with biblical teachings.

某些基督徒和宗教團體認為萬聖節的異教起源及其與超自然和恐怖的聯繫使得它不適合那些希望自己的習俗與聖經教義緊密結合的人。

Others may have concerns about the emphasis on scare tactics, or the commercialization of the holiday. These concerns are often balanced by those who see Halloween as a harmless cultural tradition.

其他人可能擔心強調恐嚇的策略或節日的商業化。這些擔憂往往被那些將萬聖節視為無害文化傳統的人所平衡。

Whether or not Halloween should be stopped is a personal and communal decision. It’s important to respect diverse viewpoints and consider how this holiday is perceived and celebrated within different cultural and religious contexts. What’s clear is that Halloween, with its deep historical roots and modern-day adaptations, continues to be a point of interest and discussion around the world.

是否應該停止萬聖節是個人和集體的決定。重要的是要尊重不同的觀點，並考慮在不同的文化和宗教背景下如何看待和慶祝這個節日。顯而易見的是，萬聖節有著深厚的歷史根源和現代的適應性，仍然是世界各地關注和討論的焦點。

The Dual Identity of "Indian" in English 英語"Indian"一詞的雙重身份

The English term "Indian" embodies a dual identity shaped by history and geography. It may refer to the Native American (Yan-Dai-On-Yan in Cantonese), or the people from India (Yan-Dou-Yan in Cantonese). By being mindful of the context, we should interpret this term with respect, acknowledging the rich and diverse backgrounds it represents.

英文「Indian」一詞體現了歷史和地理的雙重身份，它可能指的是美洲原住民（印第安人），也可能指來自印度的人（印度人）。透過上下文的理解，我們應該尊重地解釋這個詞語，承認它所代表的豐富多樣的背景。

"Indians" the Native Americans:    美洲原住民「印第安人」：

Historically, the term "Indian" was used by European explorers to describe the indigenous peoples of the Americas. This mislabeling occurred because explorers like Christopher Columbus mistakenly believed they had reached the Indian subcontinent when they arrived in the New World. Despite the error, the term persisted and has been deeply embedded in the history and culture of Native Americans. Today, while "Indian" is still used by some, terms like "Native American" or "Indigenous peoples" are preferred as they more accurately and respectfully represent these diverse communities.

歷史上，"Indians" 一詞被歐洲探險家用來形容美洲的土著人民。這種錯誤標記的發生是因為像克里斯多福·哥倫布這樣的探險家在到達新大陸時錯誤地認為他們已經到達了印度次大陸。儘管有錯誤，這個詞仍然存在，並深深植根於美洲原住民的歷史和文化中。如今，雖然「印第安人」仍然被一些人使用，但「美洲原住民」或「原住民」等詞語更受青睞，因為它們更準確、更尊重地代表這些多元化的社區。

Indians from India:    來自印度的「印度人」： 

On the other hand, "Indian" also refers to the people of India, a country in South Asia with a rich tapestry of languages, religions, and traditions. India's vast cultural heritage is characterized by its festivals, cuisine, classical music, dance forms, and contributions to science and philosophy. Unlike the historical mislabeling of Native Americans, the term "Indian" here accurately represents the people from India, reflecting their identity and nationality.

另一方面，"Indians" 也指來自印度的人，這個南亞國家擁有豐富的語言、宗教和傳統。印度豐富的文化遺產以其節慶、美食、古典音樂、舞蹈形式以及對科學和哲學的貢獻為特色。與歷史上對美洲原住民的錯誤標籤不同，這裡的 "Indians" 一詞準確地代表了來自印度的人民，反映了他們的身份和國籍。

Recognizing the context in which the term "Indian" is used is key to understanding its intended meaning. When referring to Native Americans, context often revolves around historical, cultural, or regional discussions within the Americas. In contrast, when referring to people from India, the conversation typically involves topics related to South Asia or India's global diaspora.

認識 "Indian" 一詞的使用背景是理解其意義的關鍵。當提到美洲原住民時，上下文通常圍繞著美洲境內的歷史、文化或區域討論。相較之下，當提到印度人時，談話通常涉及與南亞或印度全球僑民相關的議題。

Meditation and Zen 冥想與禪修

Many people today turn to practices like meditation and Zen to find peace and clarity for their mind. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct origins, techniques, and goals. Let’s dive into what sets them apart.
如今，許多人投向冥想（打坐）和禪宗等練習來尋找內心的平靜和清晰。雖然這兩個用語經常互換使用，但它們具有不同的起源、技巧和目標。讓我們深入探討一下它們的與眾不同之處。

What is Meditation?  冥想是甚麼？
Meditation is a broad term that encompasses various practices aimed at achieving a state of mental clarity, emotional calmness, and heightened awareness. It has roots in multiple religious and spiritual traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and even Christianity, but it is also practiced in secular contexts.
冥想是一個廣泛的用語，包含旨在實現頭腦清晰、情緒平靜和提高意識狀態的各種練習。它植根於多種宗教和精神傳統，包括佛教、印度教，甚至基督信仰，它也能在世俗背景下修練。

Meditation involve focusing on the breath, repeating a mantra, visualizing a peaceful scene, or practicing mindfulness. The primary goals of it include reducing stress, enhancing concentration, and promoting emotional well-being. It can be practiced somewhere to help to keep both body and mind peaceful at any time, making it accessible to people with different lifestyles and schedules.
冥想涉及專注於呼吸、唸誦真言、觀想平靜的場景或正念練習。它的主要目標包括減輕壓力、提高注意力和促進情緒健康。它可以在任何時間及任何有助保持身心平靜的地方練習，適合不同生活方式和作息時間的人。

What is Zen?  襌修是甚麼？
Zen from Zen school of Mahayana Buddhism that originated in China and later spread to Japan. The word “Zen” is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the same Chinese word, which in turn comes from the Sanskrit word “Dhyana,” meaning "to achieve 'satori' (enlightenment) through meditative concentration".
禪修源自大乘佛教的禪宗，起源於中國，後來傳入日本。「禪」一詞源自於同一個中文單字的日文發音，而「禪」又源自梵文單字「Dhyana」，意思是「透過專於禪定來達到『satori』（開悟）」。

The beginning of Zen is “zazen,” or seated meditation. Practitioners sit in a specific posture, focusing on their breath and observing their thoughts without attachment. Advanced practitioners can focus on their meditative concentration, that means they observe their breath, feelings and thoughts in real time without attachment, even in dynamic environments such as work and activities.
禪修的開始是“zazen”，即打坐。修行者以特定的姿勢打坐，不帶執著的專注於呼吸與觀察自己的思想。高階練習者能夠進入禪定，這意味著即使在工作和活動等動態環境中，他們也可以不帶執著的即時觀察自己的呼吸、感受和思想。

Comparing Meditation and Zen  冥想與禪修的比較
While both meditation and Zen aim to cultivate mindfulness and inner peace, their approaches and philosophies differ significantly.
雖然冥想和禪修都旨在培養正念和內心平靜，但它們的進行方法和哲學卻截然不同。

Origins and Traditions  起源與傳統
Meditation has diverse origins and is practiced in various religious and secular contexts.
冥想有多種起源，並在各種宗教和世俗背景下進行。

Zen is specifically rooted in Buddhist tradition, with a strong emphasis on direct experience and enlightenment. 
禪修特別植根於佛教傳統，非常強調親身體驗和開悟。

Techniques  技巧
Meditation includes a wide range of techniques, such as mindfulness, mantra repetition, and guided visualization.
冥想包括多種技巧，例如正念、咒語重複和引導想像。

Zen primarily focuses on concentration, insight and awareness. Zen often involves the use of koans, which are paradoxical questions or statements used to provoke deep thought and insight.
禪修主要著重專注、洞察力和意識。禪修經常涉及使用公案，即是用於激發深刻的思考和洞察力的矛盾問題或陳述。

Goals  目標
Meditation aims to reduce stress, improve concentration, and enhance emotional well-being.
冥想旨在減輕壓力、提高專注力並增強情緒健康。

Zen seeking to achieve enlightenment, that is, a deeper understanding of the reality of the world and one's true nature.
禪修尋求開悟，即對世界的現實和自己的本質有更深刻的了解

Practice Environment  修練環境
Meditation can be practiced anywhere, from a quiet room to a bustling city park.
冥想可以在任何地方練習，從安靜的房間到繁華的城市公園。

Zen traditionally practiced in a monastery, though it can also be adapted to other dynamic settings.
禪修傳統上在寺院進行，但也可以因應其他動態環境而調整。

Conclusion   結語
Both meditation and Zen offer valuable tools for cultivating mindfulness and inner peace. Whether you are drawn to the structured practice of Zen or the diverse techniques of meditation, both paths can lead to profound personal growth and insight. By understanding their differences, you can choose the practice that best aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
冥想和禪修都為培養正念和內心平靜提供了寶貴的工具。無論您是被禪修結構化的修習還是多樣化的冥想技巧所吸引，這兩條道路都可以帶來深刻的個人成長和洞察力。透過了解它們的差異，您可以選擇最適合您的目標和生活方式的做法。

The Six Paramitas (Six Perfections) of Buddhism V.S. Business Administration 佛教六度波羅密與工商管理

In today’s fast-paced business environment, effective administration and management is crucial for organizational success. However, the principles of management can often benefit from deeper philosophical insights. One such source of wisdom is Buddhism, particularly its concept of the "Six Perfections" : Generosity, Ethical Discipline (keep precepts), Patience (endure humiliation), Joyful Effort (Energy), Meditative Concentration, and wisdom. In order to offer valuable lessons that can enhance management practices, we will explore how these two seemingly disparate fields intersect and complement each other.
在當今快節奏的商業環境中，有效的行政和管理對於機構組織的成功至關重要。然而，管理原則往往可以從更深入的哲學見解中受益。佛教就是這樣的智慧泉源之一，特別是它的「六度（波羅密）」概念：布施、持戒、忍辱、精進、禪定和般若（智慧）。為了提供能夠增強管理實務的寶貴經驗，我們將探討這兩個看似不同的領域如何交接和互補。

1. Generosity vs. Resource Allocation  布施與資源分配
Effective resource allocation is key to achieving organizational goals. Generosity, as one of the Six Perfections, emphasizes that logical personal giving without expecting anything in return will be rewarded more favorably. In a management context, this can translate to fostering a culture of sharing knowledge, resources, and support among team members. For the aim of cultivating loyalty and enhancing collaboration, ultimately leading to improved performance, a good manager should ensure that resources (whether time, money, or talent) are distributed in a way that benefits the entire team and organization. 
有效的資源分配是實現組織目標的關鍵。作為六波羅蜜之一，布施強調個人不求回報的合理施予，會得到更豐厚的回報。在管理環境中，這可以轉化為培養團隊成員之間共享知識、資源和支持的文化。為了培養忠誠度和加強協作，最終提高績效，優秀的管理者應該確保資源分配（無論是時間、金錢或人才）有利於整個團隊和組織。

2.  Ethical Discipline vs. Corporate ethical Governance   持戒與企業道德治理
Ethical Discipline is fundamental in Buddhism. The Buddhist principle encourages individuals to act with integrity and respect for others. In the corporate world, ethical governance is essential for building trust with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and investors. Managers who embody ethical conduct create a transparent environment that promotes accountability and fosters a positive organizational culture.
持戒是佛教的根本。佛教原則鼓勵個人誠信行事並尊重他人。在企業界，道德治理對於與利害關係人（包括員工、客戶和投資者）建立信任至關重要。體現道德行為的管理者會創造一個透明的環境，促進問責制並培養正向的組織文化。

3. Patience vs. Conflict Resolution  忍辱與解決衝突
Patience is a key virtue in Buddhism, teaching individuals to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity. In the realm of management, this equates to effective conflict resolution. A patient manager listens to all sides, mediates disputes, and fosters a harmonious workplace. Patience helps in understanding different perspectives and finding mutually beneficial solutions.
忍辱是佛教的重要美德，教導人們在逆境面前保持冷靜和沈著。在管理領域，這相當於有效解決衝突。有耐心的經理傾聽各方意見，調解糾紛，營造和諧的工作場所。忍辱（耐心）有助於理解不同的觀點並找到互利的解決方案。

4. Joyful Effort vs. Motivation and Drive  精進與動機及動力
Joyful Effort in Buddhism refers to the diligent effort and perseverance in pursuing spiritual goals. In management, this is akin to motivation and drive. A manager with high energy levels can inspire and motivate their team to achieve their goals. This relentless pursuit of excellence and continuous improvement is essential for organizational growth and success.
佛教中的精進指的是追求精神目標的勤奮和毅力。在管理中，這類似於動機和驅動力。精力充沛的經理可以激勵和激勵團隊實現目標。這種對卓越的不懈追求和持續改進對於組織的成長和成功至關重要。

5. Meditative Concentration  (Dhyana) vs. Strategic Planning   禪定與策略規劃

Meditative Concentration involves deep concentration and mindfulness, leading to clarity and insight. In management, this can be compared to strategic planning. Just as Meditative concentration helps in gaining a deeper understanding of oneself and the world, strategic planning enables managers to foresee challenges, set clear objectives, and devise effective strategies for the future.
禪定涉及深度專注和正念，從而帶來清晰度和洞察力。在管理中，這可以與策略規劃進行比較。有如禪定有助於更深入地了解自己和世界一樣，策略規劃使管理者能夠預見挑戰，設定明確的目標，並為未來制定有效的策略。

6. Wisdom vs. Decision-Making   般若與決策
Wisdom in Buddhism is the ultimate understanding of the nature of reality. In management, this translates to decision making. Wise managers make informed decisions based on a thorough analysis of data and an understanding of the broader context. Wisdom in decision making ensures that choices are beneficial in the long term and align with the organization’s values and goals.
佛教的智慧是對現實本質的終極了解。在管理中，這轉化為決策。明智的管理者會根據對數據的徹底分析和對更廣泛背景的理解來做出明智的決策。決策的智慧確保選擇從長遠來看是有益的，並且符合組織的價值觀和目標。

Conclusion  結語

By integrating the Six Perfections of Buddhism into management practices, leaders can cultivate a more compassionate, ethical, and effective approach to leadership. This fusion of ancient wisdom and modern management can lead to a more harmonious and productive workplace.
透過將佛教六度波羅蜜融入管理實踐，領導者可以培養更具同情心、道德和有效的領導方式。古代智慧與現代管理的融合可以帶來更和諧、更有效率的工作場所。

The perspective of Buddhists on fortune-telling 佛教對算命的看法

Whether in the West or the East, there have been people who have provided divination and fortune-telling services since ancient times. Their advice sounds very reasonable, so many people, regardless of their knowledge or status, are very fascinated by it. Even some materialists, although they say they don't believe it on the surface, are actually somewhat dubious.

無論是西方或東方，自古以來就有人提供占卜、算命服務。他們的建議聽起來很有道理，所以很多人，無論其知識或地位如何，都對此非常著迷。就連一些唯物主義者，雖然表面上說不相信，但其實也有些半信半疑。

Fortune-telling, in some respects, can really calculate a person's fate. However, the fate of people born on the same year, the same month and the same day, may not be exactly the same. Even people born at the same time will have different futures due to different family backgrounds and geographical environments. In addition, if you rely on fortune-telling for everything, you may have to calculate before going out every day about the best time or best direction to go out ... These may make you suspicious and tie up you're life.

算命，從某些方面來說，確實可以推算一個人的命運。然而，同年同月同日出生的人，命運卻未必完全相同。即使是同一時間出生的人，也會因為不同的家庭背景、地理環境而有不同的未來。另外，如果你什麼事都靠算命，你可能每天出門前都要計算一下出門的最佳時間或最佳方向……這些可能會造成你對生活產生懐疑與束縛。

The technology of divination and fortune-telling is based on physical phenomena, the inheritance of experience, and the presentation of natural laws. From the point of a Buddhist, divination is not completely nonsense, but it has never been an eternal teaching that is worth being addicted to.

占卜算命的技術是基於物理現象、經驗的傳承、自然法則的呈現。從佛教徒的角度來看，占卜並不完全是無稽之談，但它從來都不是值得沉迷的永恆教義。

According to the law of "cause and effect" (or "Karma") that is taught by Buddhism, it is more reliable and more advantageous for sustainable development than relying on divination and fortune-telling. It is a positive way to create a happy destiny. Through the accumulation of ability improvement (by learning and observing) and external force support (by benefiting others), people may extend their powerful creative force on any challenges without calculating their complicated and trivial fate negative to avoid danger only.

根據佛教所宣揚的「因果」（或「業力」）法則，比依賴占卜算命更可靠，更有利於永續發展。這是創造幸福命運的積極的方式。透過能力提升（透過學習和觀察）和外力支持（透過造福他人）的積累，人們可以在任何挑戰中發揮強大的創造力，而不必消極的只是為了避免危險而計算自己複雜又瑣碎的命運。