Buddhism and Christianity

Buddhism and Christianity

Daniel Rogers

March 12, 2011

Hum 130

Toni Taylor

Buddhism always has been an interesting religion to learn about. It is one of the oldest and most practiced religions known to man. Though it seems that when asked most do not know the origin or history of the religion, though it is easy for them to recognize the important figures in Christianity and know most of the story of how the religion was created. One of the major conflicts that can be seen today is the overall lack of understanding and apparently compassion for others. Most people choose to follow the same faith that they were brought up with. Others recognize that there are many belief systems available and choose to convert to a religion which better suits their beliefs. Buddhism is one of the oldest religions known to man and is becoming more popular as time goes on.

Most people turn to the Buddhist faith in order to find enlightenment or inner peace. Buddhism is often seen as more than just a religion, it is also seen as a philosophy. Buddhism originated in the early Fifth century BCE, from the teachings of Siddhartha Buddha (Fisher, 2005). Meditation and observance of moral precepts, are the foundation of Buddhist practice. “The five basic moral precepts, undertaken by members of monastic orders and the laity, are to refrain from taking life, stealing, acting unchastely, speaking falsely, and drinking intoxicants. Members of monastic orders also take five additional precepts: to refrain from eating at improper times, from viewing secular entertainments, from using garlands, perfumes, and other bodily adornments, from sleeping in high and wide beds, and from receiving money.” (Buddhism, 2010). Their lives are further restricted by a large number of rules known as the Pratimoksa.

Plagued by the desire to help end human suffering, Buddha reached a state of pure enlightenment showing him the way to end earthly...