Expert: Michael Clark, Ph.D. - 11/13/2005

Question
Hello Michael!

Is meditation, in a Buddhist sense, something bad for Catholics? I meditate from time to time, just like the Buddhists do it by sitting with my eyes closed, is it a sin, is it something wrong? How do you think?

thanks!

Answer
Luke... there are many different schools of Buddhism. If a particular form of Buddhist meditation encouraged a person to suppose that they didn't have any individuality, IMHO this might not be the best thing for a believing Catholic. Also, if a particular form of Buddhist meditation encouraged a person to not believe in a creator of the universe which Catholics (and others) call God, then again, this might not be the best thing for a believing Catholic. Third, if a particular form of Buddhist meditation encouraged a person to become an ascetic too soon for their own good (i.e. at their present state of spiritual development) then this might not be the best thing for a believing Catholic.

On the other hand, if a particular form of Buddhist meditation encouraged a person to obtain another perspective on their outward personas, natural and superficial desires, and get in touch with their individual, inner core, then it might be of benefit—providing they keep a proper balance according to who they are and where they're at.

If you get a chance, you might find the Indian philosopher Ramanuja of interest (should be on the web).