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Question
what are some the current Buddhist practices, both personal and social.
How do contemporary Buddhist practices reflect the foundations and philosophies of the religion?
Hi Michelle,
This is an assignment question which has been asked many times. Below was my answer:
"The term "contemporary" Buddhist practices is a very general description. I don't really understand the term. I would take it to mean the present-day practices by the various different Buddhist traditions, in which case it will be too broad to generalize as each tradition has its peculiar rites and rituals.
The other problem is what is "foundations"? I would take it to mean the fundamental teachings of the Buddha, which will be the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.
Despite the differences in the rites and rituals, and also some controversial discourses, the different traditions maintain the fundamental teachings of the Buddha as mentioned above. The concepts of rebirth, kamma, compassion, harmlessness and liberation from the cycle of birth and death, are taught by the different traditions."
As for "current Buddhist practices, both personal and social", it has always been the same then and now; reduce greed, hatred and delusion of life; to live a noble and harmless life.
Hopw this helps.
Take care.
Justin Choo
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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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