HUM 145
10-2004
Buddhism: Religion or Philosophy?
Before I explain my reason for believing Buddhism is rightly acknowledged as a religion I should define my belief on what a religion is. Among the many ‘religions’ of the world are Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. But at first glance Buddhism seems to be the black sheep of this family. While the other four religions are built around a great divine, deity or god, Buddhism isn’t. Christian devotion lies in Jesus Christ believed to be the ‘son of god’, forgiver of sins, and savior of mankind. Monotheistic in basis Christianity is considered a continuation of Judaism, also monotheistic, built around a supreme God and creator of all. Islam, founded by Mohammed, is also monotheistic in base. Centered around Allah, it is much like Christianity and Judaism at first glance, following a God believed to be the creator and ultimate reality. Hinduism is also monotheistic (although there is a common misconception that it is polytheistic due to the worship of many different forms of the ultimate reality) and centered around service and worship of their chosen deity. Buddhism is neither monotheistic, nor based around service and worship of a deity.
But lets instead look at the similarities and common ground shared between these religions. All of these traditions have millions of followers who have built their life and ‘morals’ on the principles of these traditions. They have all had a part in shaping the world and society as we know it today. They have all transformed the lives of their followers and provided their own unique answers to seemingly unanswerable questions such as whether or not there is life after death, how the world came to be, what our purpose on this earth is, the meaning of life, and the path to peace and contentment. Religion has provided guidance and hope for multitudes of people from each generation dating back to the beginning of time.
While most religions have been the basis of war and conflict throughout history, Buddhism is known more widely for its peaceful nature. From the very beginning it changed lives. Buddha offered freedom for Hindus from the caste system, and a more fulfilling life through balance and devotion. Buddha believed in neither extreme self denial, nor overindulgence. It is believed that ‘life inevitably involves suffering, is imperfect and unsatisfactory’. Suffering originates in our desires, and will cease only if all desires cease. There is a way to experience this state, and it is through the Noble Eightfold Path. So if religion is about devotion to something, and a way of life based on beliefs and principles encouraged by these traditions, then all of these belief systems (including Buddhism) fit the requirements of ‘religion’.
Webster’s Dictionary defines religion as “man’s expression of his acknowledgment of the divine” or “something which has a powerful hold on a persons way of thinking, interests, etc.” It is under the second definition that I believe Buddhism falls. Living Religions states “The word (religion) is probably derived from the Latin, meaning “to tie back,” “to tie again.” All of religion shares the goal of tying people back to something behind the surface of life—a greater reality, which lies beyond, or invisibly infuses, the world we can perceive with our five senses.” So my conclusion: These definitions back my belief that Buddhism is correctly acknowledged as a religion based on the influence it has on its followers. Religion is what you want it to be. What you need to fill some kind of spiritual hole in yourself. Religion and spirituality are the ties that hold the world together.
Join in the Debate:
http://wis.dm/questions/54314-do-you-class-buddhism-as-a-religion-y-or-a-philosophy
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