Why Buddhism?

Compared to some 20 years ago, Buddhism is now making inroads in the Western societies
and is expected to grow steadily as public interest increases and teachings are made more
widespread and accessible (through the help of internet and Dharma centres). Not satisfied
with their traditional religions and their sometimes rigid dogmas, westerners have found
Buddhism appealing in its investigative approach and its position on individual
responsibility/self reliance. Over time, as Buddhist communities grow and more books in
English are published on the teachings of the 3 traditions, Theravada, Mahayana and
Vajrayana, the role of Buddhism will have an increasingly meaningful impact on their
societies.

We have also seen a resurgence of interest in Buddhism in Asian societies among the
youngsters, especially the English educated and bilingual. Replacing the superstitions or
misconceptions of the older generations (of joss-stick or ‘lucky’ believers) with regard to what
is Buddhist faith and its practices, are beliefs and expectations of a more motivated and
learned group of followers (young and old) with clearer understanding of the buddhadharma
or Buddhist teachings.

Religious devotion aside, the Buddhist teachings provide solid grounds for followers to
practise the many aspects to uplift one’s thinking and behaviour aimed at transforming a
person into a wholesome being in society let alone the lofty aspiration to nirvana, the
ultimate realization in Buddhism.

The basic appeals of Buddhism as compared with other religions include the following
aspects or qualities:

1. Freedom from sufferings

The focus and the prime purpose of the many Buddhist teachings are to help people to
alleviate their sufferings, hence, the inaugural teachings of the Four Noble Truths:
existence of sufferings, their causes, cessation of sufferings and ways to cease
sufferings. No other religions are so methodical and comprehensive in the analysis of
human sufferings and place such a fundamental significance on this pervasive area of
human life.

In fact, the historical Buddha had chosen to ignore many metaphysical questions posed
to him because they were irrelevant and trivial to the urgent issue at hand – how to
educate and assist sentient beings to relieve and eradicate effectively their sufferings.

2. Emphasis on reasoning and logic

People are asked to investigate and discover the teachings of Buddhism for themselves
before deciding to take up the new faith – the Kalama Sutta. This teaching expounds that
one should not believe in anything just based on the five common circumstances without
due observation and analysis, and that it should accord with reason and is conducive to
the good and benefit of one and all (then accept the belief and live up to it).

The power of logic runs through the whole gamut of Buddhist teachings, from the
simplest sutras for lay people to the more profound ones expounding Sunyata
(Emptiness) and Prajnaparamita. In fact, the more reflective/contemplative teachings
aim to foster a better understanding of the wisdom aspect of the religion. As far as
Buddhism is concerned, compassion must go hand in hand with wisdom otherwise it is
difficult for followers to realise the teachings and to develop their full potentials in helping
themselves and others.

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3. No tension/conflict with the scientific community
As the essence of Buddhism addresses sufferings and the human mind/consciousness,
there is leeway for the Buddhist community to accept discoveries of modern science,
which dispel certain explanations in the scriptures pertaining to geography or science. As
explained by the Dalai Lama, anything not in accord with modern scientific discoveries
should be discarded in favour of science (or verifiable truths).

The Buddhist standpoint is not surprising as no matter how advance is science, it deals
with the material world and environment while the focal point of Buddhism is the human
mind. No scientific advances since the remote past have been able to deal effectively
with the causes of sufferings – attachment and clinging to desires. This stance is quite
inspirational and is different from other religions which try very hard to validate their
teachings in the face of conflict with daily scientific discoveries. These religions maintain
an inflexible viewpoint that anything in conflict with their scriptures is an insult to their
doctrines/teachings.

4. Buddhism is not dogmatic

While there are precepts and certain defined concepts in Buddhist teachings, they
should not be viewed as dogmas. Precepts are not commandments but prescribed rules
to guide followers to change their behaviour or attitude for the better. For instance, non-
Buddhists will find the five lay precepts applicable to them as moral guidelines for the
individual and social good -- so, it is not an issue for people to be Buddhist to observe
the precepts.

Buddhist concepts such karma, rebirth, dependent origination and the three universal
seals are not cast in concrete and are open to one’s challenge and investigation. In fact,
there are no topics/principles that cannot be discussed/debated (as in some other
religions).

5. It is experiential in approach
Buddhism stresses the universal relationship between cause and effect – things/events
do not happened without prior causes and conditions. So, sceptics are encouraged to
explore the practicality of the concepts in real life and experience their applicability for
themselves. For instance, instead of accepting meditations as beneficial at face value,
people are urged to try them out to examine the benefits of such practices at first hand.

Similarly, there are many techniques to deal with anger or unhealthy desires but unless
people are willing to try out for themselves, they will not be position to certify their
usefulness; hence the practical hands-on approach in Buddhism.

6. Knowing oneself and taking responsibility for one’s future

Among all religions, Buddhism is salient in getting followers to know themselves better in
terms of judgmental and thinking individuals. The process of knowing oneself also places
responsibility squarely on the individuals to take charge of their own life – improvement
of deeds, attitude, happiness and peace of mind. This “master of one’s destiny”
approach is very refreshing and positive as it builds up confidence in one’s practices and
motivations. This self reliance style is hardly advocated by other religions since they
attribute all human actions and glories to the credit or intervention of an External Being –
i.e. the individuals are cast in a dismal minor role.

7. Rich in methods to refine one’s mind

There are abundant methods and techniques in the Buddhist teachings for the followers
to train and elevate their mental state and spiritual development. Besides the copious
and powerful teachings on meditation, there are specific sutras and sastras (treatises)

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 that help in one’s understanding of human behaviour and mental processes – this part
of the teachings is rightfully known as Buddhist Psychology.

Also, there are step-by-step methods to develop love, compassion, wisdom, and other
beneficial qualities. When followers practice these methods diligently, they experience
for themselves the results, which in turn arouse greater interest and confidence in the
teachings to make further progress.

8. No inherent evil nature

The Buddhist teachings, particularly one that explains that all sentient beings possess
the Buddha Nature (seed/potential to be a buddha/enlightened being), mean that there
are no inherently evil persons but simply ignorant beings committing
unwise/unwholesome deeds (which will lead to bad retribution eventually). “Evil” persons
or criminals always have the chance to reform or redeem themselves. The renowned
story of Anguilimala (Buddha’s disciple) is a case for reference.

9. Equality
It is a highly democratic religion opened to all people, regardless of ethnicity, language,
wealth, age, social status, power, occupation, sex, education or upbringing. There are no
preferences as to a sacred language or chosen race/people.

It is worthwhile to note that the Buddhist sangha (or monastic community) started as a
democratic movement some 2500 years ago in a very traditional caste setting in India.
Notwithstanding that Buddhism almost died out in its birth place and the absence of a
historical central body, the religion has survived and flourished in many lands of different
culture, customs and languages -- this fact reflects the appeals of Buddhist teachings
and its relevance to the various societies of its adopted lands through the ages.

10. No extreme leanings

From the beginning, Buddhadharma has always been taught as a ‘middle path’
instruction with moderation and little room or excuse for extreme thinking or behaviour.
For example, ‘no killing’ means literally no taking of life irrespective of whatsoever
justification or noble cause and certainly not blasphemously in the name of religion.
There is no such thing as a ‘holy war’ – what is so sanctified/blessed in killing or injuring
others?

The quintessence of Buddhism is kindness and compassion – so, any action leading to
sufferings of sentient beings (people inclusive) must be refrained at all times. As a very
introspective religion, Buddhism places heavy emphasis on individual ethics and social
harmony. Essentially, true lasting peace in society can only come about through happy
and contented individuals with underlying and proactive moral restraint and motivations.

11. Practice makes perfect

While many religions rest comfortably on their followers’ faith alone, Buddhist teachings
emphasize unceasing practices. The Three Poisons of avarice, aversion and ignorance,
unwholesome behaviour and undesirable mind-set, as well as karmic imprints in one’s
mind, do not change over-night or just by Taking the Three Refuges ritual. They require
the need for constant vigilance and practices to transform steadily our mindstream which
is shrouded in ignorance since the beginning of time.

Many wholesome qualities like perseverance/patience and transcendental wisdom as

well as the consequent mental transformation necessitate continuous individual
effort/awareness whether in formal training sessions or in daily life. The underlying
rationale for this diligence is that all these problems arise from one’s own making (past
actions) and that only he/she can resolve them through his/her own efforts (rather than

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 relying on someone else). As the Chinese saying goes: droplets of water can penetrate a
rock eventually.

12. Tolerance and mutual respect

Respect for other religions is a hallmark of Buddhism. Given the law of causation and
karmic affinity, it is expected that not all people are suitable and can accept Buddhism.
So, it is perfectly normal to have many religions in this world as there are people of
diverse backgrounds and spiritual inclinations. As long as non-buddhists can find solace
and happiness in their respective faiths, their beliefs and wishes should be respected by
Buddhists. As what the Dalai Lama put it succinctly, “there is no universal religion” so,
there is no reason to view Buddhism in this context.

13. Absence of evangelism in the spread of Buddhism

Although non-Buddhists are welcome to look at and explore Buddhism, since Sakyamuni
Buddha’s time, Buddhists do not try to convert believers of other faiths with a missionary
zeal (as seen in other religions). While Buddhists are certainly glad to share the
teachings with ready listeners, the latter are always told that they have the right to
ignore/disagree with the teachings/explanations. Neither is there coercion or threat that
non-believers will rot in bottomless hell or face miserable retribution or being classified
as ‘sinners.’

Buddhism does not encourage ‘football team’ mentality; that is, people should embrace
the religion only if it suits them individually and can address their respective problems
and needs, rather than to be seen to identify with a popular notion or fad or keep up with
Joneses.

14. Life long education

Whether it is for the illiterate old folks, budding youngsters, the well educated
professionals or the ever busy business people, Buddhism offers a broad spectrum of
teachings catering to their diverse interests and dispositions. As a very pragmatic
religion, Buddhist teachings address the multifarious issues of our daily life: personal well
being, family relationships, office and business dealings, community affairs, social and
government context and religious obligations. Simply put, Buddhism is very much for the
present life and it has something for everybody from cradle to grave.

However, followers should view Buddhism as a life long education as the depth of the
teachings address the various stages of a person’s life cycle, from childhood,
adolescence, adulthood to old age. Challenges and expectations of life evolve rapidly,
some teachings that may not interest them when young, may become pertinent when
they mature or put through the tribulations of life.

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Sources: Talk by Ven Thuten Chodron on 09 Nov 2002 in Singapore.

Talks and teachings by various teachers of the three traditions.

se/10.11.02