This series is an Q&A with Buddhists from other countries. These are the opinions of different individuals who all come from different countries and have different experiences with Buddhism.
Who do you believe Jesus was? Do you think Jesus reached enlightenment like Buddha did?
Kenneth (China) Jesus was an enlightened teacher and I think he’s a manifestation of Buddha. (Just an opinion)
Tran (Vietnam) They are the same, same.
Dave (USA) I was raised Catholic, but I came to believe that Jesus never claimed to be God incarnate (the Gospels were not written by eyewitnesses, and the incarnation is foreign to Judaism). Many Buddhists I know see Jesus as a compassion Buddha.
Gill (Poland) According to Christians he was the son of God, to Muslims a prophet. Whoever he was I think he was a very good teacher, who brought back human dignity to all the human beings by remembering that all of them are from the same source, teaching them love and hope.
Do you feel that anything in other religions can benefit Buddhists? If so, what?
Kenneth (China) Definitely. Buddhists are encouraged to think independently and determine for themselves what is true. There are so many parallels in Buddha and Jesus’ parables and stories.
Gill (Poland) We can benefit from other religions although generally they teach similar things but the approach is different. Jesus was teaching to love your neighbor and to forgive 77 times (always) and that there is always time to improve yourself.
Dave (USA) There are many parallels between what Jesus taught and what Buddha taught. A great book is Thich Nhat Hanh’s Living Buddha Living Christ.
If you are still a Buddhists, what kind of advice would you give those interested in Buddhism?
Kenneth (China) Read about Buddhism from Buddhists and other books. Visit a nearby temple and talk to a Buddhist practitioner or monk.
Gill (Poland) Buddhism can be an adventure for all your life!
Dave (USA) I’d say take your time to explore Buddhism. There’s no rush, and even if you decide you’re not Buddhist you’ll still have learned something.
Tran (Vietnam) I would tell them that religion is religion . ALL religions are a good ideal . Catholic and Buddhist is the same.
For similar questions see here, here, here and here. As an additional reference, please also visit Dave’s blog Agnostic Buddhist.