A review of Jesus Christ & the Buddha on dealing with conflict & injustices

Siddharta Gautama, Buddha on non-violence

Siddhartha Gautama, known as the Buddha, taught principles that emphasized non-violence (ahimsa) as a fundamental aspect of his philosophy. However, it is essential to distinguish between non-violence and pacifism in the context of his teachings.

Non-Violence vs. Pacifism

Non-violence, as taught by the Buddha, is not merely a passive acceptance of violence or injustice. Instead, it is an active commitment to avoiding harm to all living beings and promoting compassion and understanding. The Buddha recognized that while suffering and injustice exist, the response to these issues should not involve perpetuating further suffering through violent means.

Addressing Injustices

The Buddha's teachings did address injustices, but he advocated for dealing with them through understanding, compassion, and moral conduct rather than through violent confrontation. He emphasized that responding to hatred with hatred only escalates suffering. Instead, he taught that love and compassion are more powerful tools for overcoming injustice.

Methods of Non-Violent Response

The Buddha believed that injustices should be dealt with through:

• Dialogue and Understanding: Engaging in open conversations to foster understanding and resolve conflicts.

• Compassionate Action: Acting out of compassion rather than retaliation, which can lead to transformative change.

• Moral Conduct: Adhering to ethical principles that promote peace and non-harm.

  
  

Rules of Conduct in Buddhism

The Buddha established several guidelines that promote non-violence and ethical behavior, including:

• The Five Precepts: These are fundamental ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists, which include refraining from taking life, stealing, engaging in sexual misconduct, lying, and consuming intoxicants.

• The Noble Eightfold Path: This path includes Right Speech, Right Action, and Right Livelihood, all of which encourage non-violent and ethical living.

• Metta (Loving-kindness): The practice of cultivating loving-kindness towards all beings, which reinforces the commitment to non-violence.

  
  

Conclusion

In summary, Siddhartha Gautama the Buddha taught non-violence as an active, compassionate response to suffering and injustice, distinct from pacifism. His teachings encourage ethical conduct and compassionate actions to address and resolve conflicts without resorting to violence.

References

• Rahula, Walpola. "What the Buddha Taught." Grove Press, 1974.

• Harvey, Peter. "An Introduction to Buddhism: Teachings, History and Practices." Cambridge University Press, 2013.

• Gethin, Rupert. "The Foundations of Buddhism." Oxford University Press, 1998.

• Fleischman, P.R. (2002). The Buddha Taught nonviolence, not pacifism. Pariyatti Press, Seattle.

Jesus Christ's Views on Non-Violence and Pacifism

Non-Violence vs. Pacifism

Jesus Christ is often associated with pacifism, which is the belief in resolving conflict without violence. His teachings emphasize love, forgiveness, and reconciliation rather than retaliation or violence. Non-violence, while similar, can sometimes involve active resistance against oppression without resorting to physical harm.

Pacifism is love. When we fight, there is opposition. There cannot be love in division. Even non-violence, protestation is opposition. So when reviewing what the Buddha taught on non-violence, not pacifism, and Jesus Christ on pacifism, at a certain point one must choose pacifism. It is for God we must do it.

Reasons for Jesus' Preference for Pacifism

Jesus advocated for pacifism for several reasons:

• Love and Forgiveness: Jesus taught the importance of loving one's enemies and forgiving those who wrong us (Matthew 5:44).

• Kingdom of God Values: His message was centered on the values of the Kingdom of God, which includes peace and reconciliation (Matthew 5:9).

• Example of Suffering: Jesus demonstrated pacifism through his own suffering and crucifixion, showing that love can prevail over hate (Isaiah 53:7).

  
  

The Cleansing of the Temple

When Jesus cleansed the temple (Matthew 21:12-13), it appeared to be an act of aggression. However, this action was different because:

• Symbolic Act: It was a prophetic act intended to restore the sanctity of the temple, not to promote violence. This is not recommended in speech or act.

• Righteous Indignation: Jesus' actions were motivated by a deep concern for the worship of God and the exploitation of the poor, rather than personal anger.

  
  

Jesus' Pacifism at His Crucifixion

During his crucifixion, Jesus exemplified pacifism by:

• Refusing to Fight Back: When arrested, he did not resist, stating, "Put your sword back in its place" (Matthew 26:52).

• Forgiving His Executioners: He prayed for those who crucified him, saying, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34).

  
  

Dealing with Injustices

Jesus suggested several methods for dealing with injustices:

• Loving Thy Neighbor: Jesus emphasized love as the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-39).

• Turning the Other Cheek: He taught to respond to aggression with non-violence (Matthew 5:39).

• Praying for Enemies: Jesus encouraged prayer for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:44).

  
  

Rules of Conduct for Dealing with Enemies

Jesus provided guidance on how to interact with enemies:

• Love Your Enemies: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44).

• Do Good to Those Who Hate You: "Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you" (Luke 6:28).

• Respond with Kindness: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink." (Romans 12:20).

  
  

Conclusion

Jesus Christ's teachings advocate for a life of love, forgiveness, and non-violence, even in the face of injustice. His approach to conflict and enemies is rooted in the principles of the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that true strength lies in love and compassion rather than retaliation.

References

• The Bible.

• Rahula, Walpola. "What the Buddha Taught." Grove Press, 1974.

• Harvey, Peter. "An Introduction to Buddhism: Teachings, History and Practices." Cambridge University Press, 2013.

• Gethin, Rupert. "The Foundations of Buddhism." Oxford University Press, 1998.

• Fleischman, P.R. (2002). The Buddha Taught nonviolence, not pacifism. Pariyatti Press, Seattle.