- Buddhism originated in Southeast Asia, but today its popularity is growing worldwide. Many are attracted by the perception that Buddhism is a tolerant religion, others to the hope of inner peace promised by Buddhist meditation techniques.
- Today there are numerous schools of Buddhist thought. However, the three primary branches are known as Theravada, Mahayana, and Tantric Buddhism. While each of these bears the name “Buddhism”, there are vast differences between them.
- Despite the diversity within Buddhism, all Buddhists adhere to a basic core of beliefs known as the Four Noble Truths: 1) Life is suffering; 2) Suffering is caused by desire- our attachment to this world of illusion; 3) Freedom from suffering comes by eliminating our desire; 4) Desire can be eliminated by following the Eightfold Path- eight actions and attitudes that can help one find freedom from the endless cycle of reincarnation by attaining liberation or Nirvana.
- Millions of people have attempted to find peace by following the teachings of Buddhism, but right actions and attitudes cannot save us from the real source of human suffering, our sin and rebellion against a holy God (Romans 3:10-11, 23).
- True peace and liberation is found only in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Only Jesus has the ability to free us from our bondage to sin and give us new life, now and for eternity (John 3:16; Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 1:9).
For more information on Buddhism please check out Dr. Carlson’s book Fast Facts On False Teachings available in our online store.