Buddhism
Cultural interaction in religion: How does Buddhism impact other aspects of culture?
Social and Dietary
S - Many Buddhist concepts/ terms are present and used in western society -Karma (used frequently as sense of fate) -“Nirvana” (the name of a band in western society; in Buddhist religion, Nirvana is the supreme state free from suffering and individual existence. It is a state Buddhists refer to as "Enlightenment". The attainment of nirvana breaks the otherwise endless rebirth cycle of reincarnation. Buddhists also consider nirvana as freedom from all worldly concerns such as greed, hate, and ignorance) -The Dalai Lama is an internationally known figure -The wise Buddhist mentor is a frequent character in movies -"Smiling Buddha" and similar figures are frequently seen in garden shops -Buddha, Jesus and Mohammed references are equally well understood
D -Buddhism supports vegetarianism to show respect & compassion for animals. (Although, some Buddhists do eat meat.) The followers also refrain from pungent spices such as leeks, onions, garlic, spring onions & shallots which are said to increase passions & promote fiery tempers. (Vegetarians often refer to Buddhist reasoning.)
Economic and Political
In China
-The effect of Buddhism on the Chinese economy was one of its most historically profound religious influences in China.
-The economy was changed in both positive and negative ways by Buddhism’s societal role.
-One of the most direct influences was the change in economy due to the creation of Buddhist monasteries by the government. Most emperors of the fifth and sixth centuries, including emperors who otherwise appeared to hold Buddhism in a low esteem, spent large amounts of time, money and resources to building extravagant monasteries.
-Exaggerated spending and utilization of resources taxed the economy heavily.
-The common people, whose labor was used to create the buildings, were at the mercy of the emperor.
Social and Dietary
S - Many Buddhist concepts/ terms are present and used in western society -Karma (used frequently as sense of fate) -“Nirvana” (the name of a band in western society; in Buddhist religion, Nirvana is the supreme state free from suffering and individual existence. It is a state Buddhists refer to as "Enlightenment". The attainment of nirvana breaks the otherwise endless rebirth cycle of reincarnation. Buddhists also consider nirvana as freedom from all worldly concerns such as greed, hate, and ignorance) -The Dalai Lama is an internationally known figure -The wise Buddhist mentor is a frequent character in movies -"Smiling Buddha" and similar figures are frequently seen in garden shops -Buddha, Jesus and Mohammed references are equally well understood
D -Buddhism supports vegetarianism to show respect & compassion for animals. (Although, some Buddhists do eat meat.) The followers also refrain from pungent spices such as leeks, onions, garlic, spring onions & shallots which are said to increase passions & promote fiery tempers. (Vegetarians often refer to Buddhist reasoning.)
Economic and Political
In China
-The effect of Buddhism on the Chinese economy was one of its most historically profound religious influences in China.
-The economy was changed in both positive and negative ways by Buddhism’s societal role.
-One of the most direct influences was the change in economy due to the creation of Buddhist monasteries by the government. Most emperors of the fifth and sixth centuries, including emperors who otherwise appeared to hold Buddhism in a low esteem, spent large amounts of time, money and resources to building extravagant monasteries.
-Exaggerated spending and utilization of resources taxed the economy heavily.
-The common people, whose labor was used to create the buildings, were at the mercy of the emperor.