Expert: Justin Choo - 2/28/2009

Question
Hello, I am in a philosophy class right now, and we are doing a unit on Buddhism at the moment. One of our assignments is to ask a Buddhism expert a couple of questions, so I'm hoping that you can help me by answering a few things for me.

Are the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path still very important aspects of Buddhism today? How do modern day practitioners follow these teachings?

If you had to pick a couple ideas that are central to the Buddhist faith, what would they be? Why are they so important?

What are some Buddhist traditions, practices, or ceremonies that take place today?

Thanks for your help!

--Mike

Answer
Hi Michael,

The 4 Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path are the fundamental teachings of the Buddha.  It has always been the same; Buddhists follow the Eightfold Path: reduce greed, hatred and delusion.  

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. He pointed out that there was no super agent who controlled us, punished us and rewarded us. We are not puppets on the strings; and there is no puppeteer up above to manipulate us. The natural law of cause and effect rules the world. No matter what you are and where you are, or what you believe, this universal LAW rules supreme. There is no escape. It is perfectly impartial. In simple language, good begets good; evil begets evil.
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.

The most important celebration is Wesak Day which falls on the full moon day of May.  It marks the day which the Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and passing away.  There are however some other important days depending on which Buddhist tradition.  Buddhism is about truth and inner peace. Traditional practices in the name of Buddhism are more related to the different cultural practices of the different nationalities which are incorporated into the practice of Buddhism.  For more info please refer to www.buddhanet.net. @
http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/festivals.htm

Hope this helps.

Take care.

Justin Choo