QUESTION (resumed) :
Is it possible for me to be an enlightened person while also striving for social causes?
QUESTION (original) :
I have read that the Buddha travelled India trying to teach rulers and merchants to be just and wise. It seems he was not only preaching his way, but also practical advice for the layman. Is it possible for me to be an enlightened person while also striving for social causes, such as the equal (or fairer) distribution of resources, or the preservation of the environment? I can see that perhaps these beliefs should not exist as something distinct or dogmatic, but as a natural part of one's overall intuitive view. Sometimes, though, I hear it said that one's vocation does not matter as long as one is following the way. Surely this does not make sense! If the samurai used their insight to build a happy and prosperous world, instead of killing each other over territory, surely this would be better for everyone by any sane standards! They had plenty of opportunity to do so. Is this a question of balancing intuition against beliefs, or just having better intuition than the samurai had?
ANSWER :
If one day you are enlightened, will not ask yourself this kind of matters any more.
KOSEN!