What Is Buddhism Is It A Philosophy Or Religion - Essay Example

This proliferation contributes to the emergence of different cultures while maintaining basic beliefs based on Buddha’s teachings. Studies indicate that the term Buddhism has its origin from the West as opposed to the practitioners. The different cultures provide a variety of interpretations of Buddhist teachings leading to vigorous debate on the practice. This necessitates the goal of this paper, which seeks to explore Buddhism from its philosophical and religious perspectives. As a religion, Buddhism involves basic religious aspects with regard to a godhead, creation theory, and faith.

The godhead is manifested in Buddha, an Indian prince renowned for his wisdom while faith develops from the dependence on divine authority. Faith entails believing and upholding Buddha’s teachings. Buddhism indicates that there is no deity involved in creation of the world nor was there a beginning in the universe. In essence, there only exists a transformation of matter to energy in an endless cycle of coming to being while the concept of beginnings according to Buddhists exists only in the realm of illusion.

These elements are borrowed from the predominant Brahmanical traditions that were the major religious practice in ancient India. It is important to note that Buddhism emerged from the conservative social force in ancient India having rejected some aspects of the dominating religion (Oslon 3). Buddhism principles are indicated as realistic and based on the reality of life, which can be seen. It focuses on real issues of light and a better society for all, which creates a niche in the world. The realistic nature of the tradition reveals dedication to a solitary life characterised by meditation and self-preservation.

As such, Buddhism serves the spiritual needs of its followers by teaching how to experience freedom of the soul through meditation. Meditation allows one to find peace and enjoy a personal connection with the self, which serves to liberate needless suffering. Meditation in Buddhism is crucial undertaking geared towards the induction of a stable mental condition and equilibrium, as well as tranquillity. It exists in two forms; one where it is meant to develop mental concentration that leads to highest mystic states, where the mystic states have nothing to do with reality, truth, or nirvana, but are not purely Buddhist.

Buddhist mediation facilitates discernment of the essence of things leading to comprehensive liberation of the mind and subsequent disclosure of the truth (Clark 378). It builds on mindfulness, awareness, vigilance, and observation, where it does not attempt to escape from reality, but is intertwined with daily life. This is in line with the body, feelings, the mind, and moral, as well as intellectual subjects. As a religion, Buddhism teaches tolerance that allows the existence of various spiritual forms under its benign protection.

This facilitates diversity that meets challenges posed by other religious and philosophical systems including science and technology. It is for this reason that Buddhism continues to flourish as a multi-faceted religious system, with its teaching being readily accepted in the world. When compared to other religious systems in the world, Buddhism reveals significant philosophical aspects that demand assessment as they are. Studies suggests that Buddhism is a metaphysic seeking to manifest a religion as opposed to other religious systems, which to seek the metaphysic aspect.

The Buddha’s teachings (Dharma) are geared to evoke critical thinking among followers seeking enlightenment. In this light, Dharma consists of narratives with hidden meanings and vast symbolism of the intended message. This serves to encourage intellectual involvement to