Did Jesus borrow the idea of the Golden Rule from Buddhism?

Buddhism states: "Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful." This is very true, but it's only a tiny part of the idea the Golden Rule of the Bible encompasses. Buddhism says that, for example, you should not hate anyone if you don't want to be hated. Christianity says that not only should you refrain from hating anyone, but you should also make an effort to LOVE them as well. "If someone compels you to go one mile, go with them two," says the Bible. It's that extra mile that makes all the difference.

Modern philosophies agree: have you ever heard psychologists say that you are not just supposed to tolerate differences but embrace them as well? Or that you should not be a bystander but an active player? The above quote from Buddhism says: "don't do." As Christians, we believe not doing is not enough.

By the way, a paraphrase of the Golden rule actually exists in Leviticus 19: "The alien living with you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were aliens in Egypt. I am the LORD your God." Leviticus was written nearly 1000 years before Buddhist writings came into existence.

Finally, the availability of Buddhist writings in Isreal in the first century was almost certainly close to to none. It is not at all likely that Jesus could have had access to them.

Hope that clears it up... any thoughts from Buddhist friends? :) I'd love to hear your views.

1 comments:

Anonymous said...

Another way to look at it is that the more Eastern versions of those teachings are negative: i.e., "Do not do unto others ..." Jesus said "DO unto others." :) --Andy.