can anyone tell me basic beleifs involved in buddhist teachings?
how simmilar are they to the catholic religion {the religion i was raised in, PLEASE DONT HATE ON ME FOR THAT...haha}
what are the views on homosexuality?
abortion?
racism?
premarital sex?
anything relivant would be nice
one of my friends is converting to buddhism i think,
i would just like to know what its all about
2007-11-26 12:20:32 · 5 answers · asked by jackie41190 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Hi, I am a Catholic and know a little about Buddhism from what I learned in my world religions class.
The basic tenent is that a person should seek the ultimate spiritual enlightenment or nirvana, and then becomes a "buddha" (there wasn't just one buddha). A man supposedly acheives this liberation by embracing the "Four Noble Truths" regarding human suffering.
The Four Noble Truths basically deal with
1. The nature of suffering
2. Its causes
3. Its cessation (end)
4. The way to cause its cessation
Buddhist teachings are not set down officially like the teachings of our Catholic faith. It is more of a collection of philosophies. As far as moral teachings, Buddhists would be traditionally pro-life, anti-homosexuality and against extra-marital sex of any kind. In our modern world, unfortunately, many of these traditional moral beliefs have been abandoned by some Buddhist aherents.
I'm not sure how much you know of Catholicism or if ever had a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, but do not forget this part of your heritage. If you were baptized this left an indelible mark on your soul. God loves us and gives us everything we need through His Church.
Please prayerfully consider coming home to the Church of your youth. Buddhism, while espousing many noble truths, is not the way that Christ gave us. He once said "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me."
Do not forget our Lord Jesus Christ, no matter what has happened in your life, or what your experiences with the Church have been.
Remember, that in your search for truth it's not about what you want or what feels good to you. It's about being open to the answers God is willing to give if you will only ask Him. In all humility, get down on your knees and pray to God for guidance and that He will lead you to the true faith.
God bless you.
Pax Vobiscum+
2007-11-26 12:29:59 · answer #1 · answered by Veritas 7 · 3⤊ 2⤋
Catholic? No problem :) Buddhists treat everybody in equality because we are all unenlightened beings with defilements.
Leading a good moral life is probably similar to Catholics. However, the theory/philosophical teachings of Buddhism would differ a lot. Buddhism is about self-enlightenment to be the same as Buddha. It is about correcting our wrong views, and overcoming our defilements. Check this book "Good Question, Good Answer" - Bhikkhu Shravasti Dhammika:
http://www.budsas.org/ebud/goodqa/goodqa-00.htm
Regarding homosexuality: this didn't happen in Ancient India, and thus there is no specific teaching on this from Buddha. The specific cause and effect is unknown. There are different views though.
Regarding abortion: A life begins from pregnancy, and thus abortion is treated as a killing act. However, Buddhism is not against any contraception practice, including the use of condoms (not allowed in Catholic).
Regarding racism: totally against. Buddhism is about equality. Everybody has the ability to practice and become a Buddha.
Regarding premarital sex: sex with teens whom are legally protected are not permitted. Sex with already married person is also not permitted. Other than this, there is no strict NO answer.
2007-11-27 02:46:28 · answer #2 · answered by Prajna 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Buddhism is an education not a religion,do some research on Buddhism and you will be a better Catholic,regarding sex,besides the dolphin,the next animal that have sex for pleasure is the human,that is greed for sensual pleasure,judge for yourself.
2007-11-27 12:36:23 · answer #3 · answered by tan e 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Buddhism is a religion of love, and peace. It is against the rules to harm any other person, be it phsyically or emotionally. Therefor Abortion, and Racism is not permitted. However, Buddhists are also very forgiving, if an abortion is needed, then so be it.
Premarital sex has no problem I think. Homosexuality is not looked down upon.
2007-11-26 20:29:07 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 5⤋
you have a long reading ahead of you.
it is nothing like any religion .. especially since its not a religion .. heh
Their beliefs and concepts are very backwards .. yet so logical.. their beliefs are things you have always known but have never realized. You will get a better understanding of the world.. and especially yourself. Its like.. it will open a secret compartment inside yourself .. that you never knew existed
It teaches inner peace .. gratitude ... and harmony with your relationship with others and the world
I highly recommend this book http://www.booksamillion.com/ncom/books?id=3961263003017&isbn=1580628842
Its a very easy read .. It was my 1st buddhism book and it really opened my eyes .. I'm a much happier person after they made me think outside the box
good luck
2007-11-26 20:30:27 · answer #5 · answered by nola_cajun 6 · 1⤊ 3⤋