Buddhist Ethics and the Bodhisattva Path: On Virtue and Well-Being | Reviews | Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews

Buddhist Ethics and the Bodhisattva Path: Śāntideva on Virtue and Well-Being | Reviews | Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews | University of Notre Dame

Opinion

This excellent book review got me thinking about one of my favorite topics - How Christianity and Buddhism differ. 

Buddhism and Christianity, while both offering paths to spiritual fulfillment and ethical living, diverge significantly in their core beliefs. One of the most fundamental differences lies in their understanding of a higher power.

Buddhism does speak to spiritual realms, including heavens, hells, and hungry ghosts but unlike Christianity, it does not posit the existence of a personal God or creator. Instead, it focuses on its particular take on the nature of reality and the human condition, aiming to liberate individuals from suffering through understanding and mindfulness. Following God's will, central to Christian practice, is absent in Buddhism.

Christianity centers around the belief in one God and the divinity of Jesus Christ. Adherents strive to live according to God's will, which is a cornerstone of Christian life. Understanding this divine guidance involves a combination of scriptural study, church attendance, prayer, and personal experience. Christians believe the Holy Spirit communicates God's will through inner peace, elevation, and various experiences and circumstances, including holy suffering. 

While both religions emphasize ethics and compassion, these virtues arise from fundamentally different motivations. In Buddhism, ethical behavior is a means to attain enlightenment and liberation from suffering. In Christianity, it is an expression of love and gratitude towards God and a reflection of God's character. 

This core difference in belief systems profoundly shapes the practices, rituals, and worldviews of Buddhists and Christians, demonstrating that while there may be superficial similarities in their ethical teachings, the underlying beliefs, motivations, and ultimate goals are distinct.