Buddhism.......................?

Question

Im trying to change my ways, into a more peaceful, spiritual, person, has anyone tried Buddhism, and has it worked to ease your mind and surroundings?

Answer 1

Congrats!! One thing more to consider - there are several schools of Buddhism, and they do emphasize certain aspects of the faith compared to others. Again, the main branches are : theravada, which is the oldest school of thought in Buddhism, then there is the Mahayana school of Buddhism, which emphasizes the intervention of compassionate bodhisattvas. Zen or Chan Buddhism, emphasizes meditation and thought processes. One of the more popular forms of Buddhism is Tibetan Buddhism.

Now, my intent is not to show you the divisions within the Buddhist world. All schools fundamentally agree on the teachings of the Buddha, and is the eight-fold path and the four noble truths, as outlined by one of the other answers. However, there is an astonishing variety of schools to choose from, and I would encourage you to try them out before deciding.

Answer 2

Hello Ana, Some of the answers recieved were wonderful and useful, other must be taken with a grain of salt. Buddhism is a wonderful path to follow, but ofcourse like anything else you get out of it what you put in. If you just call yourself a Buddhist and thats it, you will gain no peace, if you practice according to the Buddhas path there is much to be gained, I will gladly work with you on a one-on-one basis regarding practice and any questions that you may have I'll answer to the best of my ability, if I can't answer somthing I can consult with my teacher Bhante Wimala for guidance. He's been a Monk for almost 40 yrs, so he's a great teacher. OH as for the person who said somthing about females, thats bull. The Buddha himself opened the doors to equal practice Amongst All, stating that anyone can achieve enlightenment regardless of race, color, sex, creed, or caste. I recently started a yahoo group and I have no members yet, I would be quite honored if you would join.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/theravadanonlinelaysangha
or you can just email me whenever or about whatever. My door is always open.
I send you many blessings of peace and loving-kindness Ana, Billy (Rahula)

Answer 3

Buddhism is a VERY enlightening path to follow, but it is also very hard to go all the way.!!! But you may learn many valuable lessons from the study of this Beautiful way of life :) Get some books on it!!

Answer 4

Just like all the others, it's an opiate for the masses. Granted, it's a little more en vogue than the other poplular religions. It's definitely a lot more compassionate than the others.

Of course, like the other major religions, I don't see women playing a prominent role. When was the last time a woman was selected as the next Dalai Lama?

Answer 5

I have been studying Buddhism for several years. I am very happy and at peace.

Answer 6

yes. the Four Noble Truths and the Eight Fold Path are timeless and wise beyond description.

1. Suffering exists
2. Suffering is caused by desire
3. The only way to rid yourself of suffering is to rid yourself of desire
4. The way to rid yourself of desire is the Noble Eight Fold Path

Wisdom
1. Right view
2. Right intention
Ethical conduct
3. Right speech
4. Right action
5. Right livelihood
Mental discipline
6. Right effort
7. Right mindfulness
8. Right concentration

Answer 7

Try reading Sach's book "Essential Buddhism".

Answer 8

The unease a person's mind feels is a defense against the evil influences of the world at a time when they are being called by God.

To stop up your ears to what God is saying to you is to sear your conscience so that a hard crust is formed over your heart and no seed is able to take root in it.

Answer 9

I've been a Buddhist for the last 7 years, and I love every minute of it! It really helps to free your mind and your spirit and gain a special view of the world around us.
Good luck, and enjoy. =)

Namaste _()_

Answer 10

Congrats on finding a peaceful, loving religion.