Why is Buddhism considered to be the only common meeting ground of Asian cultures - Essay Example

Why is Buddhism considered to be the only common meeting ground of Asian cultures? Buddhism is a religion that teaches peace and is regarded to be one of the most common meeting grounds for all the Asian cultures. Unlike Hinduism, Islam and Christianity, Buddhism does not embrace the idea of divine holiness. The components that create Buddhism are critical as they embrace peace and allow individuals to reflect from within. Hence Buddhism is embraced my Asian cultures because it rejects diety, promotes peace and allows individuals to find their own path to salvation through inner suffering.

One of the critical elements why Buddhism is the common meeting ground of Asian cultures is the fact that Buddhism does not believe in a divine God. In a culture where the idea of diety is so thoroughly solidified, Buddhism focuses on humanitarian deeds rather than worship of a higher being. Buddhism ultimately chooses to find the good in humanity in society where religious warfare continues to plague society. The foundation of Buddhist tradition and practice focus around ethical perceptions. All Abrahamic religions along with Hinduism such as Christianity and Islam all have a divine God.

Moreover, Buddhism tends to focus around life and suffering. It is evident that Asia is a very poor continent with poverty plaguing the sphere internationally and domestically. Religious diversity continues to be the problem in the continent as extremists from all religions tend to create chaos and destruction. This is perfectly displayed through John La Plante as he states, “Buddhism tends to adhere to the teachings of Buddha which calls for a very peaceful and humble approach” (Plante, 34).

Moreover, Buddhism allows individuals to practice other religions along with Buddhism. The whole essence of Buddhism is to preach peacefulness and embrace nature. It was clear that people were attracted to the idea in which humanity is the focal point rather than worship and control that other religions enforce. Another key element that proves why Buddhism is embraced by the Asian culture is due to the fact that it promotes peace. Since Buddhism embraces the fact that peace and harmony are vital towards reaching salvation, it completely diminishes the difference of opinion in the religion itself.

Buddhism is one of the fewest religions in which sects are not a huge issue. Moreover, Buddhism tends to bridge the differences. Hinduism for instance continues to impose the cast system which clashes against equality. It leads to differences between society and further leads to more division and clashes amongst people. On the other hand, Buddhism does not indulge on submission but suffering through an internal journey. Buddhism is pinnacle of peace here as it is stated in the Bhagavad Gita, “The Buddha taught one thing alone: that is, how to end suffering in ones life” (Gita, 20).

Ending suffering can promote peace and maintain harmony which is essential in for people. The last element that the Asian continent has embraced the Buddhism tradition is because it has allowed reform and liberation in the Asian continent. In  Hermann Hesse’s Siddhartha, Siddharta means Buddha even though Siddhartha lives with a very wealthy lifestyle but is still sad as he states, “Everyone says these are supposed to be the happiest days of our lives, but they sure aren’t for me” (Hesse, 24).

Similarly, individuals seek reform and liberation within that is critical for their inner salvation. The Eastern ideals of the Asian sub-continent indicate that individuals tend to be really conservative but are deprived of happiness as they are oppressed. Buddhism allows the critical liberation and reform as it challenges the status quo. It allows the people to be flexible with their beliefs without being imposed and induced to one religion. It is clear that Buddhism has thoroughly impacted the Asian continent with its teaching of peace, humbleness and modesty.

Moreover, it has bridged the differences of religious differences and have embraced the components of helping humanity. Buddhism will continue to have profound effects in Asia as it will call out for reform in order to facilitate the lower class that continues to be oppressed.Works CitedHesse, Hermann. Siddhartha. New York, N.Y.: New Directions, 1951. Print.Plante, John D.. Asian art. Dubuque, Iowa: W.C. Brown Co., 1968. Print.Edgerton, Franklin. The Bhagavad gitā. New York: Harper Torchbooks, 19641944. Print.