Buddhists - can you tell me about Buddhism?

Question

Sure I could read a book, or look it up on the net, but it's not the same as hearing of the experience and belief of the people who practice it. So enlighten me. :)

Answer 1

"Buddhism", being an older religion than "Christianity" has more denominations than Christianity...so it's really NOT possible to tell you all about Buddhism. There are the three (sometimes four) basic premises of all Buddhist thought that unite us as to religious teachings, but other than that, Jodo Shinshu is as different from Tibetan Buddhism as Catholic thought is from Baptist thought. Although I have an advanced degree in Buddhist Studies, it is simply impossible to quantify the experience of Buddhist religion in the same way as to academically study it as a religion. I am an ordained Buddhist priest working at a temple in Hawaii. Like any other religious path for the believer, my religion give meaning and fulfillment to my life. Buddhism is basically a teaching of cause and effect, a teaching that posits that there is not a "soul thing" that identifies the self and that exists beyond death. It is a non-theistic religion that accepts that being human involves suffering from not getting what we want.

If you are really interested in seeing what the religion is like from the point of view of practicing Buddhists, find a temple in your area and go to visit it. Buddhists are generally welcoming to others who are trying to find out about the religion. And we don't try to proselytize you either.

Answer 2

Well, if you already know the teachings of Buddhism, it will be very helpful. If you can remember those teachings, especially in times that you need them, they will really come in handy. To get the real fruit out of Buddhism is only when it is practiced. That's what people have been saying, and I think it's true. Nice to hear/read about it, but better to be practiced. (^_^)

Answer 3

I take Buddhism as a universal philosophy rather than an ethnic religion. Buddhism cannot be thought or popularized in any way. One must learn Buddhism for him/herself rather than depend on others. Why I like Buddhism:
-No rules.
-I am the god and I am not second to anyone.
-Freedom of speech (Not like in religion, I can argue Buddha or Buddhism at anytime)
-Freedom of belief (I have the right to refuse a teaching without any nonsense “sins”)
-Individual philosophy rather than a group religion.
-No pressure from the big guys in heaven or hell.
-I am the savior of myself not someone invisible.
-I can decide what I want from Buddhism without restrictions or rules.

Answer 4

I have been searching for a religion for quite some time, Before I met my Guru and "my" religion, I am such a piece of dirt.

I pot, I love to get drunk and get laid, and I can say that if you want to look for someone to beat up for a good reason, look for me.

Until I met my Buddhist friend by chance, I was out of job, and I met my paradise, Kechara House, I was totally changed 180 Degrees!

I am a better person, Considering about people's feelings, Learned the 8 verses of mind transformation (still learning to practice)

I am so much more better than the person I used to be, Visit my blog anytime http://www.tsondruegyatso.blogspot.com or http://www.tibetan-rituals.blogspot.com

or you can also email me at [e-mail]

Answer 5

The best thing you can do is go to a library.There are different kinds of Buddhism to learn about.Much too much to write down here.

Answer 6

i will start by telling you that i am born christian but....meanwhile i've discovered buddhism, in fact zen (the japanese version of buddhism) ! buddhism is the only religion in the world in the name of which...no war was started!!! it is more a way of living your life...simple and healthier! you could start by reading some koans...they will sure help you
Namaste

Answer 7

i have a great respect for buddha as he was a man of peace

there is a book under the title SIDDARTHA
i read this book and it will tell you about buddha's life

Answer 8

go to www.buddhanet.net

Or IM me