Expert: Justin Choo - 6/30/2008

Question
I have a term paper due in college about Buddhism and I have to inerview one person:
1. Is Buddhism religion very difficult to follow?
2. Were your ancestors Buddhists, if not how were you introduced to the religion?
3.Have you ever been tempted to change religions?
4. Have you ever been curious about some of the similarities of other religions like Christianity versus your own?
5. Do you feel that leading the homeless life of poverty is considered appropiste for seekers of the spiritual lofe? Why or why not?
6. Have you experienced the Eightfold Path for liberation fron suffering?
7. Do you help spread the buddhism religion? How?
8. Is meditation practiced frequently with you?
9. Do you believe that Buddhism is a nontheistic religion? Why or why noT?
10. What does your place of worship look like(Describe in detail)
I know that this is a lot of things to answer, but i really need these things answered and I think that you can really help me!


Answer
Hi Antoinette,

1. It is very easy. 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.

2. I was born into a Buddhist family, but I learned the teachings through reading and listening to talks.

3. No

4. No

5. Buddhism is not about this.  Spiritual life can be cultivated even as a lay person living normal life.

6.  The eightfold path is for practising.  If one practises them diligently, one can live in peace and contentment.  In this sense, yes, I do benefit in the practice.

7.  Like what I am doing now.  Also teaching in temple, and in forums in the internet.

8. I practise meditation daily.

9. If "nontheist" means not believing in the creator God, then Buddhism is nontheist.

10. I have a very simple place of "worship".  An image of the Buddha and a small bowl of water sigifying purity.  That's all.

Wish you do well.

Smile from justinchoo :-)