Expert: Justin Choo - 3/17/2010

Question
Hi Justin Choo
     Thank you for taking the time to read my questions, firstly in Buddhism is it possible to return to the earth many times or do you live only once as a human being?, secondly I'm interested in Buddhism but there seems to be so many varying views & beliefs in the different traditions, i find myself some what confused & disillusioned, which tradition would you suggest is closest to the original teachings?
                   thanks again klw

Answer
Hi klw,

Thanky you for asking me.

"firstly in Buddhism is it possible to return to the earth many times or do you live only once as a human being?"
So long as we have not attained enlightenment, we will be subject to repeated rebirths in various forms, including as human beings.

"secondly I'm interested in Buddhism but there seems to be so many varying views & beliefs in the different traditions, i find myself some what confused & disillusioned, which tradition would you suggest is closest to the original teachings?"

When I first started studying Buddhism, I didn't know that there were different schools.  When I realized that, I was most disappointed and confused; because all I wanted was to learn Buddhism, the teachings of the Buddha.  Then it was explained to me on the historical development of Buddhism after the passing away of the Buddha.  It was history, and we cannot alter history.  So today we have the different schools of Buddhism.

Being very practical teachings based on universal truths, Buddhism was able to be accepted by the different communities. They could practise Buddhism without having to change their cultures and customs. That is why we have Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhism, and who knows Western Buddhism!

The beauty of Buddhism is that although there are such varieties, the basic teachings of the Buddha are the same. The difference is actually in the rites and rituals, and some other minor subjects.

The original teachings of the Buddha in its pristine form did not emphasize on rites and rituals. Whatever rituals being practised at that time were purely Indian traditions. The Buddha's teachings remain pure and simple, encompassing the 4 Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path. The different rites and rituals you see are purely peculiar to the different nationalities which practise Buddhism incorporating their own traditions and cultural practices.

I would be accused of being biased if I were to tell you which tradition to choose.  All I could say is that I follow the Theravada tradition.  Incidentally, my last questioner has given me an unsolicited lecture on my point of view @
http://en.allexperts.com/q/Buddhists-948/2010/3/explanation-karma-doesn-t.htm

I would suggest that you take your time to study the different traditions, and then follow the one that suits your temperament.  Please take your time to go through the various Buddhist sites. The "Mother" of all Buddhist sites is www.buddhanet.net

Should you need further clarification, please come back.

Take care.

Justin Choo