Buddhism

Buddhism is a teaching/religion that has spread worldwide over the centuries, which has resulted in many expressions of Buddhism. Each strand, no matter how varied in nature and practice, holds a common emphasis on the impermanence of human life.

The effects of this spread of Buddhism means that it is now practiced by over three hundred million people worldwide and therefore, considered to be a world religion. The Western world, however has scrutinized its authenticity as a religion. To explore whether Buddhism can in fact be counted as a religion we must acknowledge that the main problems arise when looking for a definition of what a religion is.

One of two things happen when religion is defined:

Definitions prove too narrow excluding many belief systems which people believe are religious, or they become too broad which means that any structure/believe can be counted. To determine whether Buddhism is a religion or not, we must also note that we, as Westerners will have different views and concepts of religion to those practicing in the East. The question to be asked is whether it is even possible for Westerners to understand the religious life of Asia?

Buddhism is for most of the people practicing it a natural part of daily life and for one attempting to provide a definition of religion these practices would need to be described in a manner which did not exclude one religion from the definition. One thing is needed -  a common factor. For many, the common factor is God. However, if we conclude that God is the focus of all religion then Buddhism must be excluded because there is no God here.

Because of this point, Buddhism is excluded from having the title of religion. Many outsiders to the Buddhist tradition may claim that Buddha held some divinity and is elevated to a Godly position, but even Buddha himself refused to be regarded as divine. For Buddha, humanity is here to improve ourselves and achieve liberation rather than worrying about ultimate questions.

If  not counted as a religion then as what can it be qualified? Buddhism can be thought of as a way of life, a philosophy, a psychology, a way of thinking through which we can take responsibility for our present life and lives.
 

Buddhism also contains a morality, rituals and behaviors, certain ethical values and an origin of existence, but because Buddhists do not believe in God some claim that Buddhism fails to be a religion. We also need to remember that previously Buddhism had many names such as the Buddha’s teaching or message, or the Buddha’s way or the path of attainment.

Buddha would probably say that it does not matter if Buddhism is seen as a religion. To the Buddhist, their beliefs are essentially a philosophy by which individuals can attain release from the world of karma and rebirth.

Most importantly, only through practice and understanding can one be led to a happiness which is not transient. Therefore, labeling it as a religion or not is irrelevant.

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