To: stands2reason
That is correct. Buddhism is a way of life designed to suppress human desire and thereby clear the way to Nirvana (a state of non-being) but not a religion per se. The Dalai Lama has even stated that, for example, a Christian does not have to cease being a Christian to become a Buddhist. You can argue about that but that is what the top guy says.
To: justshutupandtakeit
I suppose one could be Christian and Buddhist. Buddhism has a lot of teachings on how to avoid sin. But Not many Christian sects would agree. Of course, Dalai Lama is Zen which is a branch of Mahayana Buddhism and I couldn't tell you anything about what that sect believes. I'm Hinayana Buddhist which is more orthodox than Mahayana and way less popular. Hinayana ain't about "one hand clapping" yourself to Nirvana. There's nothing easy or magical about it. It's about morals, and following the Dharma. Now, I am agnostic about what happens after death, but I know that the Dharma will best prepare me for a good life on this earth, and who knows, maybe a good afterlife.
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