“The True Buddhist”: An Anthropological Perspective on the Study of Buddhism
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Abstract
Buddhism is often viewed as a religion that emphasizes reason, rejects the notion of gods, focuses on liberation, and moral responsibility according to the law of karma. However, in practice, the Buddhism followed by many adherents is more complex. It includes worshiping ghosts, hoping for a good rebirth or becoming a wealthy human being, making merit for relatives, and engaging in various rituals. What is “true Buddhism”? This is a question that people ask in the modern era to find the essence of Buddhism. This question has been interpreted and applied in various contexts. It involves maintaining a balance between living in the present world and practicing the teachings of the Lord Buddha. In today's society, which is full of changes in technology, culture, and beliefs, questions arise about what true Buddhism is and how it can be applied in daily life. Anthropological studies, which focus on cultural understanding, inevitably face the influence of Buddhism. They seek answers to these issues within specific social and cultural contexts. Such studies often approach rituals as expressions of cultural values, without judging which practices (true Buddhism) are right or wrong in varied and diverse social contexts.
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