[Gem]

Originally Posted by sky123

Mybe thats why you seem to have a strange way of looking at Buddhism Gem

I could say the same of you with the exact same merit (that is, none).

you say you were ' instructed '.

That's because I went on lengthy meditation retreats to learn the meditation and followed the teacher's instructions. Though, I cant remember a single instruction which was not explained in detail.

I don't believe Buddha instructed anybody.

there are ample records of Buddha teaching meditation.

but advised.

That too, as a student progresses in their practice their teachers could guide and advise on any obstacle they come across.

Some branches/schools do instruct

Pretty much all schools provide meditation instruction. Many expect students to obey 'because buddha said', and others give elaborate explanations for why the practice is the way it is. I attended the latter kind which was for people who wanted to learn the meditation and practice it day in day out. That how my views on Buddhism arose from continuous practice in the traditional ashram setting.

and if you don't follow the instructions then you are deemed to be not following Buddhism. Instructions and advice in my understanding are very different.

In what way?