ETH/125 Cultural Diversity Wk 2
Part I
Select at least one religious and one ethnic/racial group from the list:
Religious Group: Buddhism Ethnic/Race Group: Asian Part II
Religious Group: Buddhism Buddhism is 2500 yrs old, and differs from other religions in that even without the existence of a Buddha, the teachings in Buddhism still exist. Buddhists do not worship any one deity who exacts punishment or reward on those around them. “A Buddhist does not think that he can gain purity merely by seeking refuge in the Buddha or by mere faith in Him. It is not within the power of a Buddha to wash away the impurities of others.”[1]
Buddhist beliefs follow a path of Karma and rebirth. The soul of the individual moves on into another being to take a new path. The individual’s previous lives determine the quality of the move on. Followers of Buddhism refer to Buddha as “the Awakened One”, and pay their respects to Buddha by bowing to likenesses of “Him”. It is an expression of gratitude for the teachings of Buddha. Buddhist followers strive to be better, to develop peace and love within themselves, and to improve all areas of their lives, and of those around them.
Discrimination or dislike of Buddhism- Those that do not know what it is about, assume the worst. Misinformation always leads to problems. Every religion has its opposition. When persons do not agree with or understand other people’s religions or beliefs, it causes others to build up hate and dislike. Again the source of prejudice and discrimination are those that do not wish to see or comprehend other religions exist, and that they are not there to take over any other religions.
I have always been curious about Buddhism, and this short period of research has helped me to get a better picture at what it includes, and what is involved.
Racial/Ethnic Group: Asian The Asian decent is one that goes back in history many