Buddhism has been a dominant religion in many Asian countries for many years. However, several changes including globalization have changed the face of religion in the universe such that there are several Buddhist and Muslim temples in the United States of America. An example of such a temple is the Khan Hans Buddhist Temple located in 7234 Glasgow Avenue San Bernardino California. However, there are reservations and opinions in the American Christian folk about Buddhism mainly because of the difference in their beliefs (Burnett, 2007).

Elements of a Buddhist Temple and Belief

There are several components in a Buddhist temple namely Buddha statue, candle, incense, flowers, food, and gong. Buddha is the main character being worshipped in the Buddhism religion implying that the presence of Buddha’s statue implies the presence of their object of reverence. Buddhism is a religion that is based on the importance of wisdom. The Candlelight is used as the force that gets rid of the darkness in the human mind. The incense, food, and the gong are all elements of worship, which are very important in this religion. These items and the Buddhist belief in Buddha is a mystery to Christianity because Buddha is taken to be a mortal man. (Burnett, 2007).

However, some elements of Buddhism can be compared to those of the Christian religion in that both religions emphasize the lessening of human suffering. Indeed, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ was meant to lessen the hardships of all human beings who believe in Christianity. Conversely, Buddhism is based on understanding the causes of human suffering and ways of alleviating it.

Ultimately, although a huge difference exists in Buddhism and Christianity based on the object of reverence, the elements of Buddhist religion, which are rooted in humanity, have improved the morality of the community (Burnett, 2007).

References

Burnett, D. (2007). The spirit of Buddhism: A Christian perspective on Buddhist thought ([Rev. & updated]. ed.). London: Monarch Books.