Through contemplation, the individual comes to a place of peace that allows him or her to look at these questions in a selfless way. By considering things from a selfless perspective, individuals will be more inclined to realize the truth of life. This truth can be attained through the four noble truths of Buddhism, which include the notion that life includes suffering, and that suffering is caused by desire or selfishness. Suffering can be overcome by following the Eightfold Path in Buddhism.
Following the Eightfold Path leads to Nirvana and it begins with an awareness of life's problem, determination to solve this problem, abstention from lying, evil speech, killing, stealing, and immorality. It is also important to not harm living things. Other steps are a determination to create right states of mind, self-knowledge and self-mastery, and the understanding of the truths regarding human existence. The eightfold Path guides individuals down a path that answers the questions of why we are here in that we are here to share our experiences and make the world a better place. We are aiming for a better world and on a more personal level, we aim for Nirvana. Keenan notes that this can be equated to the Western world's concept of salvation. The dimensions of religion are covered in this desire for Nirvana through the practice of meditation, the teaching of Buddha,...
While Nirvana is a spiritual activity, it is manifested in the physical world through kindness and consideration for all living things.
Many of these steps involve the practice of meditation, which is extremely important in most Buddhists traditions. Meditation is not simply sitting still; it is a state of mind that allows the individual to receive illumination. These notions should not be seen as competition with Christianity and, when we look at both religions side by side, they share many of the same characteristics. They both seek to do good and they both ask believers to be the best they can be by avoiding evil and immorality. Many Christian's might find themselves agreeing with the basic doctrines of Mahayana without realizing it. In addition, meditation is always a good thing. It helps clear the mind and it establishes a sense of calm in a ridiculously fast-paced world.
Works Cited
Keenan, John P. "A Mahayana Theology of Salvation History." Buddhist-Christian Studies.
2002. JSTOR Resource Database. Site Accessed July 12, 2009. .
Monk, Robert, et al. Exploring Religious Meaning. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, Inc. 1987.
Williams, Paul. Mah-y-na Buddhism. Florence: Taylor and Francis. 2008.
