Expert: Justin Choo - 10/8/2007

Question
I have three questions, but you can answer all or however many you'd like.

1.How do Buddhists practice their faith in modern capitalist societies?

2.What would you recommend for young Buddhists in terms of education and careers?

3.Buddhism has been historically linked to Confucianism and Daoism.  Does Buddhism today associate itself with those other philosophies, or have they separated.  Do you think that Buddhists today also follow the words of Lao-tse and Confucius?

Thank you very much for your time and ideas.

Answer
Hi Georgia,

1. We practise the teachings of the Buddha.  Irrespective of whatever society, the teachings of the Buddha remain the same.  Only the rites and rituals differ in different societies.

2. Buddhism is about realizing the true nature of existence and the universe.  Education and careers are worldly activities.  As a guide, Buddhists are advised to choose career that is wholesome.

3. Buddhism means the teachings of the Buddha.  Confucianism means the teachings of Confucius.  Daoism means the teachings of Lao Tze.  These are three different personalities.  Truths transcend belief, time and space.  Truths are truths.  They have no boundaries.  They are universal, irrespective of who you are, where you are and what you want to believe.  It is just like air and electricity.  These great personalities expounded universal truths.  Not surprisingly, some of their teachings would sound similar.

Smile from justinchoo :-)