Seclusion in Buddhism
Buddhism is a religion centered around achieving enlightenment through self-reflection and deep thought. To build up their wisdom, Buddhist monks often use self isolationism to separate themselves and their minds so they can attain a high level of focus. In this way, silence and isolation bring about "chances to ponder the universe" and therefore allow oneself to become enlightened ("Spiritual").
http://www.pbs.org/thebuddha/meditation/
Hester Prynne is a perfect example of Buddhist isolation methods and ideals helping grow an individual. She is secluded from society by others but has accepted an agrees with her punishment because she knows she has done wrong through her sin. Hester shows a remarkable sense of humility and "regard for virtue" during her years of solitude, which wins her the favor of the public (Hawthorne 90). Her humbleness is well in accordance with Buddhist ideals which state that "only the humble mind [can lead to] the path of enlightenment"(Chen). Buddhist monks also often help out the surrounding community with simple tasks that need to be done ("On Monastic"). Similarly, Hester readily helps out paupers with the "little substance" she has by giving then food or clothing (90). Hester has both self-reflected on her sin and become a more kind person through her seclusion, which is exactly what Buddhist isolationism serves to achieve: growth as an individual and enlightenment.
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Works Cited
Chen, Yu-Hsi "The Buddhist Perception of Humility." International Network on Personal Meaning. n.p. 2007. Web. 24 Sep. 2015. http://www.meaning.ca/archives/archive/art_buddhist-humility_C_Yu_Hsi.htm>.
"Spiritual Growth on the Monastic Path." Keen. Ingenio, LLC. 2015. Web. 24 Sep. 2015. <http://www.keen.com/articles/spiritual/spiritual-growth-on-the-monastic-path>.
"On Monastic Life." Buddha Mind. n.p. n.d. Web. 24 Sep. 2015. <http://www.buddhamind.info/leftside/sumaries/q-a/life-is.htm>.
Dhammika, Bhante Shravasti. "Solitude." Guide to Buddhism A to Z. n.p. n.d. Web. 24 Sep. 2015. <http://www.buddhisma2z.com/content.php?id=493>.
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