Comparative Buddhism
Explore how Buddhist teachings compare with other religious traditions, discovering both shared wisdom and unique perspectives on life's deepest questions.
Different traditions address the universal experience of suffering, each offering unique perspectives and solutions.
Buddhism: Dukkha
Suffering is inherent in existence due to craving and attachment. The solution is the Eightfold Path leading to Nirvana.
Hinduism: Maya
Suffering comes from illusion (maya) and ignorance of true reality. Liberation comes through knowledge and devotion.
Christianity: Sin
Suffering results from sin and separation from God. Salvation comes through faith in Christ and divine grace.
Islam: Test
Suffering is a test from Allah to strengthen faith and character. Patience and submission to God's will bring reward.
Buddhist Meditation
Mindfulness
Present-moment awareness without judgment. Focus on breath, body, feelings, and mental states.
Loving-Kindness
Cultivating unconditional love and goodwill toward all beings. Extending compassion to self and others.
Insight Meditation
Direct observation of the three characteristics: impermanence, suffering, and non-self.
Concentration
Single-pointed focus to develop mental stability and enter meditative absorptions (jhanas).
Other Traditions
Hindu Yoga
Eight-limbed path including physical postures, breath control, and meditation leading to samadhi.
Christian Prayer
Personal communication with God through petition, thanksgiving, confession, and contemplation.
Islamic Salah
Structured prayer five times daily with specific movements and recitations. Includes dhikr (remembrance of God).
Jewish Meditation
Kabbalistic practices, Torah study, and hitbodedut (personal prayer). Focus on divine unity and ethical living.
Nature of Reality
Buddhism: Anatta (No-Self)
No permanent, unchanging self. Reality is impermanent and interdependent. Ultimate reality is emptiness (sunyata).
Hinduism: Atman-Brahman
Individual soul (atman) is identical to universal reality (Brahman). Ultimate reality is consciousness and bliss.
Christianity: Personal God
Personal, loving God who created and sustains the universe. Humans have immortal souls created in God's image.
Islam: Tawhid
Absolute oneness of God (Allah). God is transcendent and immanent. Humans are God's vicegerents on earth.
Karma and Divine Justice
Buddhism: Karma
Natural law of cause and effect. Actions have consequences that affect future rebirths. No divine judge.
Hinduism: Karma
Cosmic law of action and reaction. Actions determine future rebirths. God oversees but doesn't interfere.
Christianity: Divine Judgment
God judges all actions. Salvation through faith and grace. Eternal consequences in heaven or hell.
Islam: Divine Justice
Allah judges all actions on Day of Judgment. Balance of good and bad deeds. Paradise or hell as consequences.
All emphasize moral conduct and compassion
Meditation, prayer, and devotion are common
Helping others is valued in all traditions
All seek to overcome suffering and find peace
Continue Your Comparative Journey
Explore how different traditions address life's deepest questions and discover the shared wisdom that unites humanity across cultures and beliefs.