What is Buddhism?

Each of these cultures put their own stamp on Buddhism. Buddhist sculptures, paintings, architecture, writing, etc., became the cultural expression of engagement with Buddhism. These Buddhist teachings influenced these various kinds of art, which is why most Asian art in museums today are primarily concerned with Buddhist themes. Thus one can look at Buddhism through the lens of religious studies, art history, architecture, literature, mythology, archeology and others.

Thus, there are many different kinds of Buddhism because of the different places it is located and the various influences it has had. But is there one part of Buddhism that is fundamental? Some call Buddhism a philosophy, some a religion, and it has also been linked to physics and psychology, but it can also be seen as mystical and faith-based. There are some forms of Buddhism that believe in a god as the giver of ultimate salvation, and some that believe there is no god with such power. It is hard to say who embodies the Buddha's original intentions, after all these are all legitimate forms of Buddhism.

Today Buddhism is changing again in a form called Engaged Buddhism. This Engaged Buddhism puts to rest the thoughts of Buddhists in isolation selfishly seeking out their own Enlightenment. Also referred to as Buddhism for social change, this is Buddhism in the world, Buddhism for activists. Well-known Buddhist leaders like H.H. Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh are examples of Engaged Buddhists. Although they do not think of themselves primarily in this way, they engage in the world and work toward social change. Many Buddhists are engaged in worldly activities for the greater good of humanity, but many feel they do a service to the world solely by meditation. This newest name for Buddhism shows how it continues to change and become more wide-ranging.

Thus, from my perspective, there is no one Buddhism. But traces of it can be found in Buddhist writings, art, and architecture. And it is also located in Buddhists visiting a temple, Buddhist monks meditating or chanting for a service, or Buddhists working together for social change. If we cannot pin down Buddhism, does that mean it is nothing at all? The fact that Buddhism is so diverse and complicated makes it interesting to study and learn about.

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