Expert: Justin Choo - 4/30/2005

Question
Is it possible to be both a Buddhist and a Christian / Catholic?  I am interested in practicing Buddhism (for various reasons but mostly because it just feels right / rings true), but I am concerned about the implications this might cause for my very catholic family...

Answer
Hi Jason,

Thank you asking me.

Changing one's religion is a very serious matter because it may most probably affect people close to oneself. Changing one's religion inadvertently involves some external changes which others will take notice and may feel threatened or even be offended. We must tread this sensitive path with great caution and sensitivity. I would assume that you are living with your family who are, as you said, devout Catholics. You must be very careful as not to hurt their feelings and sour your relationship with them.

The Buddha taught universal truths which have no boundaries and which transcend space, time, belief, and race. Truth IS truth. We still can practise universal values based on universal truths without outwardly changing our religion. We can practise Buddhism in our heart. It is the practice that is important, not the external physical exhibition.

You can continue to study Buddhism and practise the Buddha's teachings. In this way, you build up your SPIRITUAL awareness and maturity. You can practise Buddhism just like any Buddhist; by keeping the 5 precepts, and paying homage to the Buddha and taking refuge in the Buddha, his teachings, and his holy order of monks. Unless you have a very liberal and understanding family, to outwardly change your religion would surely cause problems for you and your immediate members of the family.

Continue to practise Buddhism SPIRITUALLY without having to change your present religion. Respect your family's belief and do not hurt their feelings. This will be to your advantage in order to live harmoniously with your family members.

You should have plenty of time on your side. Wait till the time is ripe and conditions are favourable, and then you can declare to the world that you have changed your religion.


Both Buddhism and Christianity can co-exist as two different entities. But to fuse them together, definitely not, and impossible. It is just like 2 sides of a coin. Both can co-exist, but both cannot occupy the same side. Most Christian thoughts are totally different from Buddhist teachings. The greatest difference is in the belief in the creator God. There CANNOT be an agreement on this. That is why one CANNOT be both a Christian as well as a Buddhist.

Hope you are satisfied with my opinion. Please call again if you need further clarifications.

Smile from justinchoo :-)