i was raised catholic but have read much over the years on buddhism. met the top priest from the nicheron sect in japan in an interview. attended sessions in homes, dated two buddhists, one from japan, one from korea, one a radical from dallas, tex. i can be catholic and study buddhism. there is no conflict from all i know. it offers a wonderful way to live and deal with life's challenges. more than anything else i know of, including psycological analysis etc. but i don't work that hard at it. none around my present neck of the woods. are you conversant on the subject?
2007-10-21 16:24:19 · 25 answers · asked by JIM 4 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
because buddha was extremely fat or "big boned"
2007-10-21 16:34:03 · answer #1 · answered by miname 5 · 1⤊ 8⤋
After reading your question, I was ready to make the argument that my religion (Christianity) makes no more OR less sense than Buddhism. Then, I read you follow-up information and found that you and I see things in very similar ways.
Buddhism is a beautiful philosophy. I see no reason why someone can't be a Catholic, Lutheran, Jewish, etc., and a Buddhist at the same time. I believe quite strongly that The Buddha and Jesus would have seen things philosophically in very similar ways. Yes, on the surface, The Buddha and Jesus preached about different things, but the core of their teachings are the same: be compassionate, do not worry, surrender to a higher creed, reject materialism and greed.
I'm sure you are aware that there are several very popular books that share the similarities of these two great teachers. One is by the great Buddhist teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, another by Jack Kornfield and Marcus Borg (quotes by both are presented side by side). I encourage you to read them, if you haven't already.
Thanks for the question and for sharing. All the best.
"Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only through love." Buddha
"Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you." Jesus
2007-10-21 16:38:57 · answer #2 · answered by Colin 5 · 5⤊ 2⤋
My religion makes as much sense as any other. Buddhism does not allow for mistakes, however. I have never read any literature that contains anything about forgiveness. Simply about enlightenment (which, I guess CAN lead to the concept of forgiveness.)
Whereas in my religion, which has the basic tenets of all religions, specifies a need of forgiveness. Buddhism may seem non-violent and mine very violent, though, so I guess one makes up for the other.
I think that if the two were combined, the amazing results would be a massive healing of this poor world upon which we live, for Buddhism makes you try to be perfect, to seek perfection within, while my religion kind of makes you lazy about being perfect and laying all on one man's shoulders.
There's a lot to be said for both sides.
I like the idea of being able to manipulate chakra, but I also have had experience with the Lord, who knows WAY more than anyone on Earth about anything. (I have heard stories of amateurs fooling with their Charka and being unable to function in the real world afterwards.)
2007-10-21 16:45:23 · answer #3 · answered by Shinigami 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Namaste.
Did you know that the star wars movies were based on Buddhism? Richard Campbell was a mentor to George Lucas and greatly influenced the premise of the stories.
If you can get hold of a copy of Bill Moyers interview with RC it's worth the effort. The interview is called "The Power Of Myth". Excellent and very thought provoking.
You are correct. Buddhism is not a religion and we do not worship a G-d. Who ever said that is misinformed.
I have several friends who are Christian, Jewish, even Muslim who additionally practice Buddhism.
Back to the question,.....
2007-10-21 16:33:46 · answer #4 · answered by Peace Yo 4 · 2⤊ 2⤋
I have recently started studying Buddhism. I believe it makes the most sense. It actually gives you a strong sense of self and your surroundings. It focuses on a clear mind and happiness. Mentally I think it is the best religion.
I was raised Catholic and yes practicing Buddhism does directly conflict with Catholic teachings as it teaches you to worship the one God. By practicing Buddhism you are worshiping another God.
But really I would much rather practice Buddhism. It is beneficial to me and my health.
2007-10-21 16:59:57 · answer #5 · answered by . 3 · 1⤊ 2⤋
I believe that the elimination of suffering is virtuous. Its even biological and economical. Increasing health and well-being of the people, coincides with vitality. Buddha knew the path to heaven. The Bible tells us: Romans 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Its not just about need fulfillment, but what the Buddhist call enlightenment, in different words. Unity in diversity under the one spirit of "God". Maybe you have seen Indra's net laying around?
2016-04-09 21:03:19 · answer #6 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe Buddhism is a lovely way to be enlightenment about ones self. However it does not lead to worship a true God. That true God is God the creator of Heaven & Earth. Jesus came to serve & save mankind, by His death & resurection. Buddha did not conquer death. Jesus did. To walk in the way of Jesus is to serve mankind and to love one another. There is less involement in self, and striving more to be Christ like. True undefiled religion is to visit widows & orphans in times of their distresss and to obey God's word.This is pleasing to the Father.
I have no conflict with Buddhism, I just know that to walk with Jesus in faith, is a far far better life, in this world & the one to come. What a world we will live in, upon His return.
2007-10-21 17:18:18 · answer #7 · answered by Faith walker 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It's true that Buddha taught some pretty cool things, but when it was all said and done, Buddha died. I guess if you're a good Buddhist, then at best, you'll live a great life, and then...die?
I serve a King who rose from the dead, and is alive, forever. So, if I end up with Jesus, I'll rise from the dead and live forever. It kinda comes down to who do we want to end up like, huh?
2007-10-21 17:15:40 · answer #8 · answered by Adan 2 · 1⤊ 2⤋
you should look into hindu as well.. it was said that buddha thought he was hindu but did not agree with everything..but anyways...buddhism is very lovly....any reglion that is not not try to opress the daily lives of others is better..honestly take a look at your life..and others around yourself.... its madness everything is a rush...noone can ever just relax.. there allways is just something that has to be going on drama or some crazy event or meeting whatever .. the large amount of violence and hate in this world....being buddist teaches how to cope with all this and not aviod it but work around it and make everything better.. i find christianity overwelming. i was born and catholic as well and atend catholic school so im not against chiristanty... but there needs to be ALOT of improovment.. but just do what your heart tells you to...dont let people say you are a sinner man for dating , beiliving or studien buddism or anything in that matter.. anything that involves peace love understanding can only be good
2007-10-21 16:41:18 · answer #9 · answered by The Gnome 2 · 2⤊ 3⤋
Buddhism is cool. It makes much more sense than Catholicism. I would not recommend trying to follow both philosophies or religions. If you want to pick one I would go with Buddhism. For me Atheism seems to be the most practical though.
2007-10-21 16:33:27 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 4⤋
There are obvious similarities between the concept of Original Sin and the Buddhist belief that suffering is a byproduct of desire, passion, etc. In both belief systems, guilt and suffering follow desire. In Christian theology, it was just one act by Adam and Eve by which Paradise was lost and 'sin' began; in Buddhism, each passionate act by an individual engenders guilt and suffering.
Islam, on the other hand, recognizes passions and desires as legitimate and completely natural human emotions, which should be channeled positively rather than curbed altogether. So, what is better, living in guilt for simple desires that are part of our humanity or knowing that as long as your desires are within the realm of decency, you are acceptable in the eyes of God?
2007-10-21 16:32:13 · answer #11 · answered by Sincere-Advisor 6 · 2⤊ 5⤋