Expert: Justin Choo - 10/8/2008

Question
For an online class, we have to ask an expert about an Eastern religion. In the end, I chose Buddhism. I would greatly appreciate any responses.

1. What spurred you into becoming a Buddhist? Specifically, what belief attracted you to it the most?

2. How have your beliefs shaped or changed your general outlooks on both life and society?

3. What would you say is the most important concept of Buddhism to explain to beginners. Why?

4. How strictly are the Buddha's teachings meant to be followed in everyday life? Are they strict rules, or more general guidelines?

5. What is the Buddhist view on toleration of other faiths and the separation of church and state?

6. What, if any teaching, is the most important to grasp and understand?

Thank you again for help.

Answer
Hi Brandon,

1. I was born in a so-called Buddhist family. Buddhist knowledge is usually minimal in many "Buddhist" families. I learned Buddhism through self-study and through listening to talks by knowledgeable and learned speakers.  I was fortunate to have a very learned teacher monk to learn from.

2. To be more contented with what I have, and to be more tolerant with others' beliefs and opinions.

3. That we are responsible for what we are experiencing both good and bad.  That we have control over our lives and not depending on any "higher" power.  That the universal law of retribution rules supreme...good begets good and bad begets bad.

With these concepts, we are free to think and act by using our human intelligence.

4.  The most salient aspect of Buddhism is FREEDOM in its practice. The Buddha encouraged his followers to use their common sense and human intelligence to analyze his teachings before accepting them. Buddhist teachings are like air. They are free, and non-discriminating. If anyone thinks they are beneficial, then they can breathe the air. If anyone chooses otherwise, then it's up to the person. This is the "religion" of Buddhism....Truth, Peace, Harmlessness, and Freedom.  A more appropriate term to describe Buddhism is "humanism". It deals with the peaceful conduct of human lives.

5. Buddhist is about experiencing "inner peace".  What others want to belief is none of our business.

6. The concept of "no permanent unchanging soul".

Hope this helps.

Regards.

Justin Choo

[I like to invite you to visit my blog:]
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/

[And this blog by Rev. Dhammika:]
http://sdhammika.blogspot.com/