01-17-2009, 01:52 AM
intervarsity
The adaptability and developing character of Buddhism accounts for its extraordinary variety, which makes the task of characterizing an âessenceâ of Buddhism remarkably difficult. Buddhism has become woven into the texture of the social and political life of Buddhist countries.
The cornerstone of Buddhist philosophy is the view that all life is suffering. Everyone is subject to the traumas of birth, sickness, decrepitude and death; to what they most dread (an incurable disease or an ineradicable personal weakness), as well as separation from what they love. The cause of suffering is desire â specifically the desire of the body and the desire for personal fulfillment. Happiness can be achieved only if these desires are overcome, and this requires following the âeight-fold pathâ. By following this path the Buddhist aims to attain nirvana, a condition beyond the limits of mind and feelings, a state of bliss.
The continued existence of Buddhism for over 2,500 years, constitutes a very deep challenge to the Christian church. Buddhism has come to be more familiar to the Western world in recent years. Its impact can be felt, for instance in the conversion to Buddhism among Westerners.
There are radical differences between Buddhism and Christianity that make any attempt at reconciliation between the two faiths impossible. The Buddhist worldview is basically monistic. The existence of a personal creator and Lord is denied. The world operates by natural power and law, not by divine command.
The adaptability and developing character of Buddhism accounts for its extraordinary variety, which makes the task of characterizing an âessenceâ of Buddhism remarkably difficult. Buddhism has become woven into the texture of the social and political life of Buddhist countries.
The cornerstone of Buddhist philosophy is the view that all life is suffering. Everyone is subject to the traumas of birth, sickness, decrepitude and death; to what they most dread (an incurable disease or an ineradicable personal weakness), as well as separation from what they love. The cause of suffering is desire â specifically the desire of the body and the desire for personal fulfillment. Happiness can be achieved only if these desires are overcome, and this requires following the âeight-fold pathâ. By following this path the Buddhist aims to attain nirvana, a condition beyond the limits of mind and feelings, a state of bliss.
The continued existence of Buddhism for over 2,500 years, constitutes a very deep challenge to the Christian church. Buddhism has come to be more familiar to the Western world in recent years. Its impact can be felt, for instance in the conversion to Buddhism among Westerners.
There are radical differences between Buddhism and Christianity that make any attempt at reconciliation between the two faiths impossible. The Buddhist worldview is basically monistic. The existence of a personal creator and Lord is denied. The world operates by natural power and law, not by divine command.