1
Buddhism: A Religion or a Philosophy?
Student’s name
Institution affiliation
Course
Instructor’s name
Date
2
Buddhism: A Religion or a Philosophy?
Buddhism, an ancient and highly impactful religion, traces its origins to the Indian
subcontinent and has since increased throughout diverse geographies. The founder of Buddhism,
Siddhartha Gautama, commonly referred to as the Buddha, achieved enlightenment following an
extensive period of spiritual exploration and meditative practice. The hallmark of Buddhism lies
in its prioritization of pragmatic methodologies aimed at mitigating affliction and attaining
internal serenity. The philosophical tenets of Buddhism center on the Noble Truths and the Noble
Eightfold Path; they elucidate the transitory nature of existence, the essence of affliction, and the
route to emancipation from suffering (Molloy & Hilgers, 2013).
The Nature of Buddhism as a Religion
The classification of Buddhism as either a religion or a philosophy is a subject that
frequently elicits contentious discourse. Although Buddhism may not adhere to certain
conventional features typically attributed to religions, it exhibits fundamental attributes that
warrant its classification as a religion. Molloy and Hilgers (2013) explicate that religion is
commonly characterized by an all-encompassing framework of convictions and customs that
center around the transcendent or spiritual domain, recognizing the presence of a supreme entity
or entities and endeavoring to discover significance and direction in existence. The philosophical
system of Buddhism satisfies these parameters under its core emphasis on the ultimate objective
of emancipation from affliction, commonly referred to as nirvana, and the profound reverence
accorded to the Buddha as a spiritual mentor. The quintessential aim of Buddhism is the
attainment of emancipation from affliction. The Buddhist philosophy revolves around
comprehending the essence of affliction, its origins, and the methodologies to surmount it. The
3
endeavor toward emancipation and the exploration of absolute veracity are congruent with the
spiritual yearnings inherent in various religious customs.
The venerated icon of the Buddha commands immense respect within the Buddhist faith.
Siddhartha Gautama, the esteemed Buddha of history, is widely recognized as an enlightened
individual who achieved a state of transcendence beyond the perpetual cycle of reincarnation.
Buddhists hold the Buddha in high esteem as a spiritual mentor and instructor, personifying
sagacity, benevolence, and illumination. Although Buddhism may not adhere to the traditional
notion of a religion that entails faith in a supreme being or divine entities, its fundamental
doctrines and rituals evince a religious inclination. Molloy and Hilgers (2013) illustrate that the
religious tradition of Buddhism comprises a range of customs, acts of worship, and collective
assemblies that cultivate a feeling of metaphysical camaraderie. The Buddhist customs
encompass the formation of monastic communities, the evolution of revered scriptures, and the
perpetuation of spiritual establishments throughout history.
The Foundations of Buddhism: The Three Jewels
The Three Jewels hold a pivotal significance in Buddhism as they are the fundamental
underpinnings for the religion's convictions and customs. The Buddha's Dharma guides spiritual
seekers toward enlightenment. The Sangha represents Buddhist ascetics, monastics, and
laypeople who uphold and protect the faith's doctrines (Molloy & Hilgers, 2013). Within the
context of Buddhism, these individuals are regarded as indispensable assets, as they provide
invaluable direction, bolstering, and a milieu conducive to cultivating spiritual pursuits. The
tripartite concept of the Three Jewels is perceived as mutually reliant for the reason that the
existence of one is contingent upon the presence of the others. The act of seeking refuge in the
Three Jewels is a fundamental practice among adherents of Buddhism, serving as a symbolic
4
gesture of their unwavering dedication to the pursuit of enlightenment and the cultivation of a
harmonious collective.
The Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path
The Four Noble Truths posit the recognition of suffering (dukkha) as a natural constituent
of the human condition. The subject examines the origins of affliction, the plausibility of its
termination, and the course of action that leads to its ultimate cessation (Molloy & Hilgers,
2013). The Noble Eightfold Path, consisting of right understanding, intention, speech, action,
work, effort, meditation (right mindfulness), and contemplation, provides pragmatic principles
for individuals to surmount affliction and attain emancipation (Molloy & Hilgers, 2013).
Buddhist Schools and Branches
Throughout history, Buddhism has developed various schools and branches with distinct beliefs
and practices. Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana are three broad classifications of Buddhism.
Theravada, the only surviving conservative school, emphasizes the monastic community's role in
attaining nirvana through meditation and detachment. Mahayana encompasses a broader range of
practitioners and focuses on compassion and the salvation of oneself by saving others. It has had
significant cultural and artistic contributions and is widespread in China, Korea, Japan, and other
East Asian countries. Vajrayana is prevalent in the Himalayan region and incorporates esoteric
rituals and practices (Molloy & Hilgers, 2013).
Conclusion
The tenets of Buddhism, which prioritize the amelioration of suffering and the attainment
of inner tranquility, evince qualities of both a religious and philosophical system. Although it
may not encompass certain customary components typically attributed to religious practices,
5
such as the acceptance of a divine entity, it does satisfy fundamental prerequisites, including the
quest for transcendental experiences and the presence of a spiritual mentor. The tenets of
Buddhism offer pragmatic direction for individuals.
6
References
Molloy, M., & Hilgers, T. L. (2013). Experiencing the world's religions: tradition, challenge,
and change. 6th Edition. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield Publishing Company.
https://www.mheducation.com.sg/experiencing-the-world-s-religions-loose-leaf-
9789814581578-asia
