The Relationship Between Buddhism Vs. Christianity

Buddhism vs. Christianity
In the recent past, many people have become more interested in understanding the relationships between religions than ever before. The relationship between Buddhism and Christianity have been the center of interest among many scholars who strive to explore the differences and the similarities between the two faiths (Laughlin 78). The followers of Buddhism are Buddhists while the followers of Christianity are Christians. This paper will investigate how the two faiths are related by exploring their similarities and differences based on common goals, the difference in their metaphysical commitments, differences in their religious practice and the origin of each religion.
Both Buddhism and Christianity have specific common goals to achieve. The two beliefs seem to provide principles that govern the interpersonal relationships; this entails helping the
Christians acquire salvation by means of passion that was shown by Jesus through his death and resurrection. Tripitaka is the main scripture in Buddhism while the Holy Bible is the most important scripture in Christianity. Also, Buddhists religious law is Dharma while Christians religious law is the canon law that is largely practiced by Catholics. Buddhism has many common symbols that comprise of victory banner, dharma chakra, vase, parasol, lotus, fish, endless knot, and conch. In contrast, the common symbols in Christianity are Baby Jesus, Mary, ichthys, cross, and many others. Moreover, Buddhists do not believe in the existence of sin. Christians, on the other hand, believe in the reality of sin and whenever they seek remorse with God they seek priests to ask for forgiveness. To end, Buddhists believe in life after death that can only be achieved if an individual attains Nirvana, while Christianity offers two options after death Hell or Eternity in Heaven