The sight of a Buddhist monk who had set himself on fire in protest of the Vietnam War is one of the most disturbing images of the 20th Century. It represents the lengths to which someone was willing to go in order to stop what most considered a "senseless" war. Whether his political statement was heeded or not, it showed his willingness to sacrifice his own life to save the lives of others. The powerful image of Jesus of Nazareth, nails driven through his both his hands and feet, hanging on a cross to meet his death is also one of the most distressing images ever to be viewed. Catholics around the globe hold their messiah in unparalleled regard for his unwavering faith and dedication to his god. The sacrifice of his life was the foundation for what would become one of the largest religions in the world. Both the Buddhist monk and Jesus understood the importance of sacrifice for the greater good of their communities. This unifying value selflessness is one of the major themes that plays an important role in both Buddhism and Catholicism. These two powerhouse religions are often times at polar opposites in their views; and in the same sense their similarities can sometimes be described as uncanny. T
he influence that they both have on society is so vast that the comparison of the two is integral to understanding the relationship between religion and civilization.
According to the Bible, Jesus came upon two blind men, "touched their eyes, saying, 'Let it be done to according to your faith.' And their eyes were opened" (Matthew 9:27-31). It is this very faith that acts as the foundation of the Roman Catholic Church. It leads its members toward a positive and productive life of serving God. The belief that Christ was their savior, and that his sacrifice set an example as to how to give all of oneself to God, has encouraged an unbreakable bond between God and His people. Despite the obvious differences between Catholicism and Buddhism, there is an underlying similarity that binds them together. The faith that the Buddhist must develop in his/herself is the strength that ties them to harmony with the world. The unwavering faith of both groups of followers encourages a certain determination that points them in the direction of a fulfilling, and more importantly a compassionate life. It is this lifestyle that hopefully will prevent any repeat of that horrid image from Vietnam, and may someday bring this world together in an enveloping era of peace.
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