Buddhism Vs Christianity

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Religion is a fundamental element of human society. It is what binds a country, society or group of individuals together. However, in some instances it destroys unity amoungst these. Religion is a belief in a superhuman entity(s) which control(s) the universe. Every religion has its differences but most strive for a just life and the right morals. The three major groups are the primal regions which consist of African, Aboriginal and Native American religions, Asian which consist of South Eastern Asian religions and Abrahamic religions which consist of Middle Eastern religions. The foci of this essay are the differences between the Abrahamic religion, Christianity, and the Asian region Buddhism as well as making reference to the Islamic religion.

It is the beliefs or ideologies as well as the traditions which separate and help us differentiate between religions. The main concept of Christianity is that God the Father sent his son Jesus as man to save mankind and open the gates of Heaven on earth. "Thy kingdom come thy will be done – Lords Prayer". Buddhism is based on the individual's effort, the idea of equilibrium, were one lives life in harmony with the surroundings. "True understanding lay between the extremes of asceticism and luxury, a middle path p.92" In the Christian faith, when one dies, after roaming the earth for 40 days he ascends into heaven were he will be judged by the Holy Father. If a person seeks eternal damnation they are sent to hell and if they want to be saved and to live for eternity in Heaven with God, they must atone for their sins by waiting in purgatory after which time they will be granted access to Heaven. Faithful following of the Christian religion is the short cut to Heaven since Jesus showed us ...

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... justice and being a good person. These also reflect the Buddhist religion. Buddhist religion originated in the mountains of the Himalayas and made its way east to the Asian countries were it spread as far as China, Japan and Thailand. The Buddhist religion is appealing to a small minority of people in especially Northern America, whom are finding it a better alternative to the more dominant Christian beliefs.

Religion plays a major role in many people's lives and dictates how one person acts and copes with everyday obstacles. Even though there are many similar concepts one still sees a major difference between two. The Christian faith appeals to many people and its morals and ethics are what many people in Australia want or ascribe to. Though religions might be different the ultimate goal/vocation is to live life being fair and kind to others.

Charbel Tarabay

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