Critical Thinking and Worldview

Critical Thinking and Worldview Buddhism worldview On the question of origin of life, Buddhism has no exact answer. Actually, Buddhism does not explain the origin of life. Its view is that life is too complicated for our minds to understand; Thera (n.d) quoted Bertrand Russel on this â€Å"The idea that things must have a beginning is really due to the poverty of our thoughts† (Thera, n.d, p. 1).Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Critical Thinking and Worldview specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According to Khyentse (2008), Buddhism identity is based on four facts â€Å"all compounded things are impermanent, all emotions are pain, all things have no inherent existence, and Nirvana is beyond concepts† (p. 3). Understanding these four facts and putting them into practice make one a Buddhist. The middle path teachings of Buddhism teach on the meaning and purpose in life. A person ought to live a â€Å"neutral, upright and center ed life† (Buddha Net, 1996, p. 1). To understand life, one is required to take a position that is unbiased and, as noted above, be neutral and upright. From this position, it becomes possible to critically examine life and the problems associated with it, and come up with sustainable solutions. Buddhism teaches on moral precepts (the Pancha Shila), noble qualities (the Paramita), the four sublime tests, teachings of Sigalovada Sutta and metta Sutta. All these teachings call for moral decency. They also emphasize being caring in words and actions, and living a simple life (Boeree, n.d). A person’s destiny is dependent on some factors. One of them is Karma. The present life is dependent on the past Karma. The practice of dhamma also contributes to one’s destiny (Jade Buddha Temple, 2013). Comparison of Buddhism to a Christian worldview Christianity views the origin of life in the creation carried out by God in the Garden of Eden where all animals, and Adam and late r Eve were created (Ge 1:24, New International Version). This is in contrast to Buddhism which views such ideas as being due poverty of thoughts. Christian identity has to do with believing that Jesus Christ is the son of God, he was crucified because of mankind’s sins and living according to the teachings of the bible (Rom 10:9). Buddhism, on the other hand, does not recognize Jesus but has a set of teachings that form its identity.Advertising Looking for critical writing on religion theology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The purpose of life in Christianity’s view is to serve God. This is accomplished by following the ways of the bible and allowing the leadership of the Holy Spirit in one’s life (Isa 43:7). This contrasts with the Buddhism view which does not recognize the existence of Holy Spirit and God. Christianity advocates for uprightness in morals. It teaches that one should love his/ her neighbor as he loves himself/herself. It also advocates for caring for the less unfortunate in the society (Ex 20:12-17). There is a very big similarity between Christianity and Buddhism on the issue morality. The two worldviews advocate for uprightness in actions and thoughts. They also advocate for people to be accountable for their actions. The Christianity view on destiny is that every person has a predetermined life. To live this predetermined life depends on whether a person submits to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. It also teaches on after death life whereby there is paradise and hell. Living in one of the two depends on whether a person, in his/her first life, lived according to God’s will (Isa 43:7). This is a big contrast to the Buddhism view on destiny. References Boeree, C. G. (n.d). Buddhist Morality. Shippensburg University. Web. Buddha Net. (1996). Buddhism – The Middle Path. Buddha net Production. Web. Jade Buddha Temple. (2013). Buddha’s perspective of man’s destiny. Jade Buddha Temple. Web. Khyentse, D. J. (2008). What Makes You Not a Buddhist. Boston, MA: Shambhala Publications.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Critical Thinking and Worldview specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Thera, D. M. (n.d). The Origin of the World. Buddha Sasana. Web.