Buddhist Belief

One of the basic tenets of Buddhism is the Buddhist Belief that everyone, everywhere, can achieve good fortune and happiness. It isn't something that can be achieved by only a small group of people -- or people of some certain culture. This happiness is available to everyone regardless of background, race, gender or age. It doesn't matter who you are, or where you're from.

There are many different schools of Buddhism, but the one Buddhist Belief that runs through all of them is that meditation is one of the best ways to overcome those thoughts and behaviors that are negative in nature. Once people have developed a regular, daily practice of meditation they can achieve positive, peaceful states of mind. People who meditate find that dealing effectively with the daily hassles that come up is accomplished with much greater ease.

Of great importance among the Buddhist Belief system is the understanding and willingness to follow the Five Precepts. These Precepts are often referred to as the curriculum of Buddhist teaching. They are:

1. Do not kill and be kind to all creatures. One must not deliberately take the life of another living creature. Furthermore, one cultivates the attitude of loving kindness to all beings by wishing that they may be happy and free from harm.

2. Do not steal, give rather than take. If something isn't given, we have no right to take it away by force, fraud or theft. One should also cultivate the virtue of generosity. A Buddhist gives to the poor and sick because of their need. He is generous in his gifts to his family, teachers and friends because of the advice, guidance and kindness they have shown him. Besides giving material things to the needy and the worthy, Buddhists should also offer sympathy and encouragement to those who are hurt or discouraged. And, of course, sharing the Buddhist Belief, the Dharma, is an important aspect of generosity.

3. Do not lie, be honest and open. To refrain from telling lies is to show respect for the truth. This precept includes telling half-truths that exaggerate or understate the true facts. Once people uphold the respect for truth, there will be fewer quarrels and misunderstandings. Think about how much more peaceful and orderly our societies would become if we used truth in our dealings with others.

4. Do not misuse moral standards. Although it's true that moral standards will vary in different societies, in different cultures, and at different times, rape, adultery and other such behaviors that involve physical and mental injury to others should be prohibited. It is also a matter of respect for people and personal relationships.

5. Do not consume alcohol or recreational drugs. One of the important aspects of Buddhism is the respect and reliance on wisdom. Using intoxicants and drugs will dim our ability to use good judgment. These are also not good for our health. We see all the time the effect that intoxicants can have on respect for others and avoiding harmful acts.

The belief in reincarnation is also a basic Buddhist Belief. Buddhists believe that we go through many cycles of birth, life, death and rebirth. These cycles will eventually end when a state of freedom and liberation from suffering is achieved. This is what is called Nirvana. This is also the goal of a Buddhist.

It is said that the Buddha taught these beliefs out of compassion and for the betterment of all society. Buddhists accept these beliefs voluntarily, rather than as commandments. They also believe that following the precepts will make their journey to Nirvana less difficult.

See more here: Buddhist Belief Blog