Why Buddhism ? Why Now?

Interest in Buddhism is growing steadily worldwide, especially from people seeking rational answers in
this current age of clashing ideologies, fanatical strife and senseless violence. The number of its
adherents is growing at a phenomenal rate in many parts of the world particularly Australia, the US
and many countries in Europe. In many countries in Asia where it was once forcibly displaced by
Communism, it is making a remarkable comeback. Why is this interest growing so quickly?

1. Mind is the forerunner of states. Mind is chief; mind-made are they. If one speaks or acts with
wicked mind, because of that, suffering follows one, even as the wheel follows the hoof of the ox.
2. Mind is the forerunner of states. Mind is chief; mind-made are they. If one speaks or acts with pure
mind, because of that, happiness follows one, even as one's shadow that never leaves.

These are the opening verses of the Dhammapada. It is remarkable that from the very
start, Buddhism identifies the mind as the creator and destroyer of mankind's peace and
happiness. There remains hope for this world in the teachings of the Buddha. What is it that
captivates and fascinates people in this day and age? Perhaps these characteristics will give one a
good idea.

Buddhism is :

A religion of true peace that has never advocated any violence in its name.

Buddhism is one of the oldest religions of the world. Yet, it has the distinguished honour as a religion
that has never had a holy war. No body has gone to war to vanquish unbelievers or to convert others
to Buddhism. The very first precept that every Buddhist takes is to refrain from taking life.

A religion that emphasizes compassion, acceptance and kindness.

Buddhism has been a great civilizing force. It tamed the nomadic and violent hordes of Asia and
brought art, culture and civilization. Buddhists are known for their kind, accepting and non-judgmental
ways. Today, as Buddhism spreads to new lands, it is not brought by missionaries intent on converting
others but is typically established by the initiative of local people who invite teachers to share the
teachings. It does not actively plan to seek converts but assists and provides the opportunities for
converts to appreciate the religion for themselves.

A religion that provides a clear path for spiritual and personal development.

Buddhism is not a collection of legends and stories. It does not present itself as a mystery that can
only be understood by certain people. Instead, Buddhism presents itself as a clear and credible path
that anyone can undertake according to his own understanding and ability. It is a method that can be
applied giving results that can be experienced immediately.

A religion that teaches us to take full responsibility for our actions.

Buddhism does not attempt to explain the problems in the world as part of a mysterious plan. It does
not blame fate or any divine being for whatever good or bad we experience in life. Instead, it teaches
that we are accountable for the results of our past actions and that we are the masters of our own
destiny. Buddhism insists that mankind takes responsibility for its own actions.

A religion that discourages blind faith or unthinking worship.

Buddhism does not insist that people accept dogmas or doctrines on faith. It actually suggests its
adherents to think, to reason and to challenge its teachings.

A religion that welcomes questions and investigations into its own teachings.

Being totally self-confident, Buddhism opens itself to query and scrutiny. There is no concept of
blasphemy in Buddhism. People are encouraged to question the Buddhist teachings and they can
expect to be answered with rationality, respect and honesty.

A religion that says sincere followers of other beliefs are also rewarded in the afterlife.

Buddhists are taught not to condemn followers of other faiths but to see the good that they
practice. Buddhism teaches that what happens to us in the future depends not on our beliefs but on
what we do in the present. This is a natural law in accordance with scientific principles and applies to
everyone regardless of their religious label.

A religion that is very much in harmony with modern science.

Buddhism does not conflict with science. It does not attempt to bend the facts to suit its faith. Indeed,
much of modern science, particularly in the fields of psychology and physics supports the tenets of
Buddhism.

Buddhism can be summarized as :

"Avoid wrong actions, do good, and purify the mind." Just by putting its teachings into practice, you will
gain good results in this life and plant the seeds of good for the future.

Buddhists believe that world peace is not an impossibility. Instead of seeking divine assistance, it asks
mankind to take responsibility for its own actions, speech and thoughts and seek to overcome greed,
hatred and delusion.

Wesak Publicity Committee

Bandar Utama Buddhist Society
http://www.parami.org/bubs/

Sender: Lee Yu Ban

15 Lrg PJU 3/23 D
Sunway Damansara
019-2291881