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Question
i have an assignment to do on Buddhism and was wandering, why do people choose to become Buddhist over other religions? why do people value Buddhism, their ethics and their beliefs? and do you think that they choose to be Buddhist because of the symbols?
Hi Stephanie,
Thank you for asking me.
Different people may have different reasons for following the Buddha's teachings. To the best of my knowledge, those who are attracted by Buddhism are those who value the freedom of enquiry and the freedom to use their human intelligence and common sense.
The teachings are based on universal truths. 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. As for "belief", there is nothing to believe in Buddhism. If those think that certain concepts are "unbelievable", then they need not have to accept. This is the beauty of Buddhism.
I don't think anyone would turn to Buddhism simply for the symbols.
Smile from justinchoo :-)
[You are invited to visit my blogs:]
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/
http://blackandwhite999.blogspot.com/
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Answers by Expert:
Justin Choo
Expertise
When in doubt seek it out. All your questions will be answered, and you may not have to agree with the answers. Such is the beauty of Buddhism. You are free to decide. I follow the Theravada tradition, and have been studying Buddhism for more than 40 years. Please view my profile for more details. I have answered more than 1500 questions since joining this category. You may like to give me the honor to answer your question.
Experience
I was brought up in the 50's as a Buddhist. For the past 40 years I have read numerous books on Buddhism and listened to numerous talks on Buddhism by well-respected and learned monks and lay teachers. I conduct Buddhist classes for parents of Sunday School children in a Theravada Buddhist Temple.
My teacher was the late Chief Reverend, The Ven. K Sri Dhammananda of The Brickfields Buddhist Mahavihara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. You can view the relevent website in memory of my revered late teacher @
http://www.ksridhammananda.com
Organizations
I am a life member of the Buddhist Missionary Society Malaysia.
Publications
YOU ARE INVITED TO VISIT MY BLOG @
http://lifeislikethat999.blogspot.com/
Published a book called "The Rainbow And The Treasure". It is a compilation of extracts from various sources to introduce Buddhism to beginners. (Currently out of print)
Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Commerce And Administration, Victoria University Of Wellington, NZ.(1974)
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