Michael Roach, a monk who deeply cherishes the Diamond Sutra, represents a unique figure in American culture. Born in 1952, Michael Roach graduated with honors from Princeton University. He subsequently traveled to India to become an ordained Buddhist monk and dedicated 25 years to studying Buddhism. He became the first American to earn the Geshe degree — a doctorate in Buddhist studies.
Upon returning to the U.S., Michael Roach applied the concept of emptiness, as learned from the Diamond Sutra, to his business endeavors. With a loan and assistance from friends, he founded Andin International Diamond Corporation, which started with US$50,000 and grew into a global entity with annual revenues exceeding US$200 million by 1998. At the height of his business success, Michael Roach decided to step back, focusing his efforts on teaching Buddhism, writing books, lecturing, and studying Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Russian.
Michael Roach’s enlightenment in business
He established an organization called “The Enlightened Business Institute,” dedicated to teaching business professionals how to enhance creativity and wisdom through meditation, thereby strengthening the positive aspects of their karmic influences. Additionally, he played an active role in the restoration efforts of Tibet’s Sera Monastery.
In a reflective interview, Michael Roach shared his initial exposure to the Diamond Sutra. He first encountered it after the death of his parents and brother during his college years, which plunged him into a profound existential crisis. Seeking answers, he ventured to India to embark on a monastic life and rigorous study of Buddhism.
His teacher’s advice inspired Michael Roach to re-enter the American business scene. His teacher saw the busy corporate environment as the perfect “laboratory” to apply and test his Buddhist teachings. Initially skeptical of the corporate world, Michael Roach was convinced by his teacher’s argument that true seclusion and wisdom could also exist in the bustling marketplace, not just in serene monasteries.
Principles of business and the wisdom of making money
Michael Roach established three principles for his business ventures:
- Success and profitability are essential, as they enable more acts of generosity.
- Enjoying wealth responsibly ensures physical and mental well-being.
- Reflecting on one’s career with a sense of meaningful contribution to oneself and the world defines true success.
He discussed the practical application of Buddhist wisdom in business, emphasizing the infinite potential (“emptiness”) inherent in money and business ventures. Given the right approach, this concept can transform significant investments into even greater successes.
Michael Roach likened the mind to a continuously operating camera, recording every act. He stressed the importance of planting “good seeds” through acts of kindness and honesty, which eventually lead to successful and happy outcomes, contrary to the “bad seeds” sown by deceit and selfishness. Sharing profits generously, seizing mature business opportunities, and constantly giving back are crucial for sustainable success and collective prosperity.
Final thoughts on integrating money and spirituality
There is no inherent shame or moral fault in creating wealth; how we perceive and manage money is what truly matters. Making money isn’t inherently good or bad — it’s about the intentions behind our actions and our willingness to share our success. The more genuine our intentions, the stronger the positive impact we can create, planting seeds of goodwill that eventually bear sweet fruits. This approach is not just about increasing one’s financial wealth; it’s about enriching the community as a whole.
Moreover, possessing greater resources can be a force for good, allowing those with more to do more for others. It’s not solely about the quantity of money made, but rather how it’s made and sustained, and the mindset with which it is handled. In this light, earning money becomes more than a material pursuit; it integrates with a spiritual practice that enhances one’s life and health.
Embracing a spiritual path does not preclude financial success. On the contrary, combining the two can lead to a more fulfilled, balanced existence where personal prosperity and spiritual growth go hand in hand. This harmonious approach invites us to view business and financial endeavors as opportunities to apply spiritual wisdom, ensuring that our professional actions resonate with our deeper values and contribute meaningfully to the world around us.
Translated by Eva
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