Differences Between Buddhism And Christianity

Buddhism vs. Christianity

Culture and Communication

Jennifer Smith

Intercultural Communications

Aimee Callahan

November 8, 2015 Religion is one of the biggest factors contributing to the formation of a culture and the behavior of the people that are a part of it. Religious beliefs and practices mold who we grow to be as people as well as how we choose to live life. This research paper analyzes the Buddhist religion in comparison with Christianity. I will also provide a reflection on the impact religious factors have on cultures as well as the communication between them.

Buddhism

Buddhism was founded by Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who was given the name Buddha, which means the enlightened one, when he attained Nirvana. According to

Since the time of Buddha, rituals have been a symbolic part of Buddhism. Most Buddhist rituals have a beginning, middle, and an end. The beginning’s main function is to discern the rituals activities from normal daily activities, and they often begin with a speech or a story that prepares participants for what is to come. The middle of the ritual, also referred to as a period of transition, signifies participants’ readiness to leave life as usual behind and then returning. This is the phase where the main purpose of the ritual is actually carried out.

According to Fronsdal, types of Buddhist rituals include the following: “offer a blessing, connect to what is sacred, remember what is important, heal, set an intention, make a commitment, mark a new beginning, initiation or transition, welcome or honor something or someone, let go of something, leave something behind or say good-bye, evoke something meaningful, e.g. strength, support, courage, patience, love, compassion, wisdom, facilitate forgiveness, reconciliation, or speaking the truth, prepare for upcoming events, receive particular wisdom teachings, tell one’s story, and/or celebrate,” (n.d. para.

These values and beliefs shape and form who they are, the way they live their lives, and how they communicate. Values and beliefs of the Buddhist religion include reincarnation, the three trainings, the four noble truths, the five precepts, and the eightfold path.

Reincarnation is the concept that people are reborn each time they die. According to Robinson, “A practicing Buddhist differentiates between the concepts of rebirth and reincarnation. In reincarnation, the individual may recur repeatedly. In rebirth, a person does not necessarily return to Earth as the same entity ever again,” (2009, para.2). After completing a satisfactory number of cycles a person may reach Nirvana—a state of freedom and liberation from suffering—once they have released all attachments to desire and self. The Three Trainings include Sila, Samadhi, and Prajna. Sila is training in virtue, good conduct, and morality based on the principles of equality and reciprocity. Samadhi is training in concentration, meditation, and mental development. It is based on the concept that a strong mind leads to wisdom and wisdom to personal freedom and good conduct. Prajna is training in discernment, wisdom, insight, and