Religious Philosophy
The similarities between Buddhism and Christianity are vast, although Christianity of today bears little resemblance to its first century roots. Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ, and therefore unequivocally monotheistic. Christianity holds that God is omnipotent and omniscient, while Buddhism is considered a non-theistic tradition, which holds that there is no higher power or God. Both faiths present a spiritual or ethical path, or teachings, that believers can follow and adhere to.
Religious philosophy is a key similarity between Buddhism and Christianity. The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism are seen as the core foundation and pillar of Buddhist Teaching and have strong parallels to the teachings and lessons of Jesus Christ in Christianity. For example, both faiths stress the importance of being compassionate and forgiving, and remind individuals to embrace and treat all with love. Indeed, the fundamental principles and teachings of both Christianity and Buddhism emphasise the importance of self-awareness, understanding and striving to reduce suffering.
Sacred Texts
Another similarity between Buddhism and Christianity is the importance of sacred texts. Buddhism has the Tripitaka – also known as the Pali Canon – which is a collection of teachings from the Buddha himself. Christians have the Bible which contains the teachings of Jesus Christ and the stories of early Christian figures such as Moses and Mary. Despite these being two different texts and two very different types of literature, they both contain core value systems, spiritual messages and ethical teachings that adherents should strive to emulate.
Both religions provide source material and instructions on how a person should live their lives. In the Bible, Christians are encouraged to ‘Love thy neighbour, as thyself’ and in Buddhism, the ‘Five precepts’ advise followers to ‘Act with generosity and kindness’. Although these messages are presented differently, they have a shared moral code at their core.
Rituals of Faith
Christianity and Buddhism also share similarities with regards to the ritualised ceremonies, and practices of faith. For example, both faiths hold sacred their special days of worship, and make space for the performance of regular rituals and ceremonies. In Christianity, this happens through the regular attendance of services on the Sabbath, the reading of the Bible and upholding rituals like communion.
In Buddhism, the rituals of faith involve regular meditation sessions, the Chanting of sutras and the daily contemplation of the Four Noble Truths. All of these rituals and practices are intended to help followers of each faith deepen their understanding of the religious texts, their values and the teachings of which they are inspired.
Monastic Communities
Monastic communities are another similarity between Buddhism and Christianity. In both religions, monks and nuns are committed to a life of devotion. These individuals devote their lives to the service of their faith, adhering to strict moral codes and engaging in a life of faith-based contemplation and practice. Many monastic retreats offer a retreat where individuals can go to reflect and meditate on the core messages of the faith.
Additionally, many Christian monasteries are comparable to Buddhist monasteries, in that both offer the opportunity for spiritual and faith-based growth. Monks and nuns of both faiths may take vows of poverty and celibacy, refrain from speaking and practice deep silence and meditation. All of these help Buddhists and Christians to grow in understanding of their faith, and to nurture a more intimate relationship with the teachings of their faith.
Other Practices
Other practices and traditions shared by both Christianity and Buddhism include pilgrimages and giving of alms. Pilgrimages are taken by individuals of both faiths to deepen their understanding of the religion. For example, Buddhist pilgrims often travel to sacred sites in India or China, while many Christians visit Jerusalem or other holy sites in other countries, in order to pay homage to their chosen faith.
Similarly, both Buddhism and Christianity hold the tradition of donating alms to the poor. This is based on the idea that those who are fortunate and blessed enough to have should help to support those who lack the resources and material goods of life. Judaism upholds a similar concept known as ‘Tzedakah.’
Principles of Non-Attachment
Finally, Christianity and Buddhism share similar principles of non-attachment or detachment. In Buddhism, non-attachment is seen as essential to freedom from suffering – letting go of things that cannot be controlled, or attachments to material or worldly things. This idea is also echoed in Christianity, where Jesus Christ teaches that those who cling to this world and its possessions, will suffer the greatest losses. Both faiths prescribe a path of non-attachment to the material world, to detach one’s sense of identity and worth, and to view all with compassion.
Influence on Society
One of the most important ways that Buddhism and Christianity have influenced society is through their emphasis on the importance of love and compassion. Both faiths remind us of the importance of looking past differences and instead, to recognise and celebrate the humanity in all people. Both faiths also embrace diversity, advocate for the ceasing of violence and promote social justice. This belief in the intrinsic value of human life and unwavering commitment to showing love and serving humanity, has been foundational in the creation and enforcement of social justice legislation the world over.
Manifestations of Faith
Due to the prevalence of Buddhism and Christianity, these mono-theistic faiths have been able to manifest their teachings in an enormous variety of ways. The effects of these faiths can be found across the world in art, literature, music, and philosophy. The core teachings of both Buddhism and Christianity provide individuals with opportunities to engage their faith in many aspects of their lives, through their expression and the manner in which they choose to lead it.
Legacies of Faith
Ultimately, the legacies of Buddhism and Christianity underpin much of the world we live in today. Over two millennia, these two faiths have both left an indelible mark upon society, despite the philosophical and doctrinal differences between them. Despite this, it is clear to see how both Buddhism and Christianity have shaped education, literature and art, deeply influencing the way prior and present generations think, work and live.
