Expert: John Willemsens aka Advayavadananda - 10/4/2003

Question
I am composeing a research report on Buddhism and would be very greatful if you would share your input on the subject in regards to three questions I have. I feel that your expert knowledge on the subject will not only strenghten my paper, but ease my curiosity on some aspects of the religion.  Thnk you in advance for any help you would be willing to provide.

1)If one does not adhere to the Eightfold path and/or the five precepts and later expresses remorse for their behavior, is their a type of penance available to gain forgiveness for such actions?
2)In today's material and often corrupt world, how does a Buddhist cope with the temptations society tempts him with and stay true to the teachings of Buddha?
3)Buddhism has had such a profound effect on China.  With a fast growing population of Buddhists immigrating to and converting in America, do you believe we will see the beliefs and traditions incorporated into our nations customs?  How?  

Answer
Dear Kathleen,
Please note that I speak for Advayavada Buddhism only.
If you want to know more about this form of Buddhism, please visit www.advayavada.nl.
Short answers to your specific questions are:
1) In Buddhism you are not punished for your mistakes, but by your mistakes in the form of degrees of existential suffering!
2) To (re)start and advance on the Path you must minimally adhere to the Five Precepts, which are pretty universal and not that difficult to follow.
3) Mainland China is really not very Buddhist and the popular Buddhism of Taiwan (and Japan) is a manifestly ethnic religious Pure Land Buddhism. Buddhisms which are, however, being easily adopted in the West (somewhat like Hindu Yoga was) are Zen and Vipassana (i.e. Mahayana Soto and Rinzai Zen, and Theravada Vipassana (Insight) Meditation. See the Internet for information about these three schools of Buddhism).
Kind regards,
John Willemsens a.k.a. Advayavadananda.