Persuasive Essay On Buddhism

Religion is quite possibly one of the most debatable things in the world. Some people believe in their religion so much they are willing to die for it, others do not believe in any kind of religion at all. However, just as people’s opinions on religion vary, so do people’s views on what constitutes a religion. Religion is very complex, and because of this complexity it is a very hard word to define. Yet to exclude labeling Buddhism as a religion because it lacks an almighty god seems unfair. Buddhism is a type of religion. Buddhism shares many common traits, and beliefs with some of the world’s most popular religions.

First it is important to understand what religion is, and how Buddhism fits the definition of religion. Religion is often defined

Having been born into a royal family, Gautama waited out his days for his turn to become the next king (Van Voorst 114). Then one day at the age of 29 years old, Gautama would endure an event that would change his life forever. For the first time Gautama witnessed the suffering of the sick and the elderly, he was so disturbed by what he saw, he decided to get rid his wealth, his throne, and his family in order to become a holy man (Van Voorst 114). He spent the next 7 years of his life studying and receiving instruction from several Hindu teachers (Van Voorst 115). Out of Hindu teachings Gautama formed his own belief system known as the Middle Path, a path that would ultimately lead to liberation (Van Voorst 115). Gautama had reached an understanding of life that no one has experienced prior. Having done so, he became known as the Buddha (Van Voorst 115). Similar to Jesus in the Christian Religion, Gautama became a man of his people, and his spent the rest of his life helping others instead of himself. It is also interesting to note that Buddhism got its roots from Hinduism, another established religion. The story of Gautama, and creation of Buddhism, lends itself to being more on the lines of a religion as opposed to a state of

For instance, in both religions, it is a common belief that being materialistic is a surefire way to be unhappy. Buddhist teach that the only way to end human suffering, is to stop wanting what they do not have (Van Voorst 124). Christianity teaches a similar lesson, not be tempted by materialistic spoils, but to be faithful to the Lord. Both religions put emphasis on preparing for the next life or afterlife, instead of living up their current one carelessly. Buddhists also believe in hell just like Christians. They fear that if they do not follow their precepts, Buddhists stand the chance of being reborn in hell (Van Voorst 126). Both Christians and Buddhists also pray on a regular basis. While the Christians pray to an almighty god, the Buddhists pray to the Buddha for blessings (Van Voorst 130). While Buddhists do not consider Buddha to be a god, they still treat the idea of the Buddha as a divine image (Van Voorst 130). It is common to find Buddhists praying for help towards enlightenment, as well as the normal prayers like health, safety and strength that are seen in all religions. Lastly, both religions participate in funerals, and admire the importance of passing into heaven, or being reborn (Van Voorst