Expert: Justin Choo - 10/7/2007

Question
I'm taking a class on philosophy and we have gotten to a section on Buddhism.  After learning about the core foundations of it, I still had a few questions that I was curious about.

1. How is Nirvana similar/different to the afterlifes of other religions, and has the concept of Nirvana changed with the evolution of Buddhism?

2. How much of an influence does Buddhism have in other countries?  Like how many businesses in America and elsewhere are closed on Sunday because Christian faith tells them to observe the sabbath, does Buddhism exert a similar force in countries where it is prominent?

3. Are there any philosophies/religions that Buddhists look down upon in general?

Thanks in advance for any help you give.

Answer
Hi Brendan,

1. "Nirvana" is a totally different concept from the "heaven" of other religions.  You need to know more about Buddhism to understand "Nirvana".  But very briefly, it is a state where is no more craving and hatred.  It is not a place where one enjoys eternal happiness.  It is a state where there is no more suffering.  Truths never change.  The Buddha's explaination of "Nirvana" is such.  Please do a "Wikipedia" search on "Nirvana" to know more.

2. Buddhism is about the true nature of existence and the universe.  It is about the eradication of suffering by reducing one's greed, hatred and delusion.  It is not about resting on certain day or waiting for the sun to rise.    

3. Buddhism is about compassion and self realization.  If one can reduce one's greed, hatred and delusion, one will be able to lead a harmless and peaceful life.  Being a Buddhist is a very personal and private commitment.  It has nothing to do with what others want to believe.  It is not our business to be busy bodies.  What is so great of us to look down on others.  Are we really better than them?

Smile from jutsinchoo :-)