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Question
Hello. I am a 4th-year pharmacy student and am undergoing a project to promote cultural awareness in pharmacy. I was wondering if you could tell me or send me information on what medicines (if any) are prohibited under dukkha law or other Buddhist restrictions. My instructor and I were also curious about products such as insulin that are derived from bovine or porcine sources. Please tell me information in general that you use in Buddhist society to determine if a medicine or therapy is taboo.
Thank you for your help in this matter. My goal is to complile a concise reference that can be used by all pharmacies that shows proper respect for cultural and religious differences. Thanks again for your time and advice.
Sincerely,
Shawn O.
Hi Shawn,
Buddhism is different from other religions. It does not set laws and commandments on its followers. Buddhism is about contentment and inner peace. Taboos, superstitions and prohibitions are not condoned by Buddhist teachings. If the product is derived by non-harmful means, then there is nothing to worry for the Buddhists. Buddhists are encouraged to use their common sense and human intelligence to live a harmless and peaceful life.
Hope this helps.
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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