Buddhism and Christianity Preliminary Research

Kaile Pelayo

Values and Beliefs

Preliminary Research

1. Introduction: Why am I interested in this topic? What makes this worth investigating?

The topic of self control regarding Christianity and Buddhism brings forth questions and inner thoughts as to how Christianity and Buddhism can benefit from each other.

Research Question 1: How can devoted Christians beneficially draw on the wisdom, insights, and practices of Buddhism?

Research Question 2: What are the similarities and differences in the practices of Christianity and Buddhism, and how can one benefit from the other?

What is most exciting about self control in Buddhism, is that other religions, like Christianity, have a chance to benefit from their wisdom and practices. Buddhism offers many helpful resources that are not accessible to most Christians. For example, not many Christians have the ability to distance themselves from the desires that could potentially bring them despair and suffering. Not all Buddhists attain such a quality either, which is not only why Buddhism can benefit Christianity, but Christianity can, in a sense, benefit Buddhism. These two belief systems have much to offer, and can gratefully benefit from one another. For example, Christianity and Buddhism can look upon each other to explore new insights into God and how God works according to each belief. Though, each religion still has the responsibility to reflect and digest on what they believe, why they believe, and where they are going to look for spiritual truth and inner wisdom. The outlook Buddhism and Christianity have on each other can be very much appealing to one’s mind.

Posing Questions:

Does it matter which path one takes in seeking to benefit from Buddhism and other religions?

How many Christians know how to effectively practice deep breathing in order to relax the body and reduce stress/anxiety?

How many Christians genuinely value humility, patience, and moral respect, in ways that lead to kinder, more peaceful relationships?

2. Reading Notes:

Differences in doctrinal outlook but close similarities in their ‘central’ teachings about spirituality.

No ‘god’ in Buddhism; many gods/goddesses

Buddhism

--personal mortality is followed by reincarnations after better or worse ‘rebirths’ depending on merit attained in previous lives

--goal in attainment of Nirvana a state where desires cease and where