Differences between Christian Beliefs and Buddhist Beliefs Research Paper

Differences between Christian Beliefs and Buddhist Beliefs - Research Paper Example This paper illustrates that in Christianity, the Ten Commandments is a list of rules imposed on Christians for the proper conduct of their lives. The goal of Christianity is to go to heaven after death. Thus, one must follow the Ten Commandments and God will allow them into heaven. In contrast, the Noble Eightfold Path of Buddhism is a set of suggestions for a more satisfactory life. The goal of Buddhism is to achieve Enlightenment, or nirvana, through one’s own efforts as there is no higher power than one’s self. Beliefs of Christianity and Buddhism As an organized religion, Christianity, when practiced by an individual, can be the only religion that is recognized. This is due to the belief that all other religions are false and practicing them would be sinful. Also, Christianity, more specifically Catholicism, contains only three central figures - the Father (God), the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. It is considered to be a sin to believe in or worship any o ther idol. According to Christian law, it is impossible to believe in God and to believe in other deities. Buddhism, as a way of life, has no contradiction in following more than one religion; there are many people that practice both Buddhism and another religion, even Christianity. There are also no creator gods or deities to worship. Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, is the founder of the Buddhist path and philosophy, but he is regarded more as a mentor or a leader rather than a god. Therefore, there has never been a purpose to worship him, nor did he ever desire it or request it from others. Christianity is organized based on hierarchical structure within the Church and specific days of observance. Christianity consists of numerous people of importance, such as the Pope, Deacons, bishops, monks, priests, ministers, youth ministers, and Sunday School teachers. Each person plays an important role in the running of the Church and in the teaching and spreading of the Chri stian message. Certain days of importance and holidays are observed, like Sundays, which is reserved for church, and other days that celebrate occasions in the life of Jesus, like birth (Christmas) and his resurrection (Easter). Buddhism, however, has no priestly hierarchy, though practitioners are able to become monks. These monks are similar to the monks of Catholicism, though they do not share the same religious duties. As previously stated, Siddhartha Gautama is recognized as the founder of Buddhism, but he is little more than a fellow practitioner of old. In regard to days of observance, Buddhism does not deem one day holier than another. Instead, practitioners are encouraged to celebrate every day that they are alive. Some people do observe the birth of the Buddha, but it is not considered to be a sacred holiday. Salvation is another vast difference between the two religions. In Christianity, salvation is achieved through faith, a relationship with Jesus Christ, and daily repe ntance of sin.