Tao Thay Shang Men – English

From : Gu Zhi Chang
Question:
I would like to ask about “Killing”. Is the act of killing right or wrong? Or does it depend on reasons behind it, or effects caused by it?
For example, if I kill enemies in a war, or if I kill for defending myself, is my act of doing right? So far, in my opinion, killing (no matter what the reason or the effect) is still wrong, because it take somebody’s life away. Besides, I think if I murder someone; that means I owe him / her life. Please explain.
Answer:
As human, our life is connected to each other, causes and effects take place accordingly in a way that none is able to understand them. Of course, killing must be avoided. However, we have to understand that it is a different case when it comes to different cases, such as: wars, protecting own-life. It is a natural fact that we are the one who should protect ourselves.