Ethics In Judaism And Buddhism

Since the foundation of morality, people have always lived their life by code. A code that suggests what is both right, and wrong. This code has been passed down countless ways, from mother to son, father to daughter and brother to sister. Each differing, but still accounting for the right idea, and the wrong idea. They are the foundation of a persons position on a certain issue. Each of the world’s religions possess their own set of moral teachings. They are an important aspect of each religion because they define the different moral values upheld by them. Judaism and buddhism are two of the many religion’s which share generally similar moral teachings on a number of moral issues, including; abortion, homosexuality and life after death. Although they have subtle differences, the moral teachings of abortion, homosexuality and life after death in Judaism and Buddhism are fundamentally the same.

It is morally taught throughout Judaism that abortion is not forbidden, but expected to be considered only in serious conditions. When considering an abortion, the Jewish law requires the mother to consult and discuss with a Rabbi, because every case is expected to be determined on its own terms (Judaism, Abortion par. 2). Abortion in Judaism is seen as acceptable in some circumstances, for example, for the sake of the baby, and for the mother’s protection. It is thought that if a child will suffer because of a disability, or if the mother is not in proper conditions to raise a child, abortion is morally acceptable, due to long term suffering. In Buddhism, abortion is thought to be morally wrong for intentionally taking a life. However, generally similar to Judaism, Buddhists believe abortion is acceptable only in some circumstances. ...

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...ame, the moral values upheld and taught by these two religions are primarily alike in a general sense. When considering an abortion in both Judaism and Buddhism, it is only believed in appropriate circumstances. Homosexual acts in Buddhism are seen as sexual misconducts, and in Judaism seen as a sin. However, homosexuality from both a Buddhist point of view and a Jewish point of view are both seen as more or less acceptable, if only they are not acted upon sexually. Life after death in Buddhism is thought to be a time where reincarnation occurs until Samsara is over and Nirvana is achieved. Just as in Judaism, reincarnation and Gehinnom occur until one has served their purpose or relived their sins. Exploring both Judaism and Buddhism has made it evident that the two religions generally share the same moral teaching on the three moral questions at point.