Expert: Justin Choo - 2/28/2006

Question
As a project for school we have to ask three questions to someone who is an expert in the area of Buddhism. Are there any special steps that someone goes through to become a "member" of the buddhist society? (Such as catholics being confirmed or their first communion)
Are there a strict written law/beliefs that buddhists follow? (Such as the ten commandemnts)
What is being a Buddhist really about, do people do if for the sense of balance?
Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. Your answers will surely help with my project.

Answer
Hi Lianna,

Looks like I have been kept busy discussing assignments with a group of students, like your goodself. But it's ok.

Your qn:Are there any special steps that someone goes through to become a "member" of the buddhist society? (Such as catholics being confirmed or their first communion)
Answer:Buddhism is not an institutional religion.  It does not compel anyone to believe.  The Buddha advised his followers to use their common sense and human intelligence to analyze his teachings and only accept them if they agreed.  Buddhists do not believe that by sprinkling some water, people can go to heaven.  There is no hyprocrite in Buddhism simply because it is the practice that counts.  If one practises the teachings of the Buddha one is a Buddhist.  Only oneself will know.  

Your qn:
Are there a strict written law/beliefs that buddhists follow? (Such as the ten commandemnts)
Answer:  The teachings of the Buddha transcend race, culture, nationality, belief, and time and space.  This is because the teachings are based on universal truths and good values.  The Buddha advised his followers to lead a harmless and peaceful life by keeping certain good precepts.  He pointed out that if one kept the precepts, one would be able to live in peace and happiness.  If otherwise, then one would be courting troubles.  The choice is up to the individual.  There is no compulsion. There is only freedom in Buddhism.  As lay Buddhists we refrain from committing unwholesome actions.  We try to keep the 5 precepts of refraining from killing, from stealing, from committing sexual misconduct, from lying, and from taking intoxicating substances.

 
Your qn:What is being a Buddhist really about, do people do if for the sense of balance?
Answer:Partly answered above.  A good Buddhist refrains from violence, strive to do good, and to tame the mind to be wise through meditation.  Very simple indeed!

Smile from justinchoo :-)