Comparing Doaism and Mahayana Buddhism - 1016 Words

When it comes to comparing Doaism and Mahayana Buddhism very few similarities exist. Although both religions are practice based, opposed to religions based on faith, the ultimate goal of each religion are vastly different. In Daoism it is believed that the spirit is eternal after death while In Mahayana Buddhism we see that there is an end to the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. However, there is one similarity in both that is incredibly important to the practice of both religions. This similarity is the concept of emptiness. By observing the proper practices of Bodhisatvvas in Buddhism and the ideal ruler in Daoism we can see how both religions have a very similar view on the importance of emptiness, and also how they differ. In the Daoist text the Tao Teh Ching, there is mention of the idea of an empty bowl. This concept is very important and can be applied to many aspects of Daoist practice. When thinking of a bowl we understand it as something that is to be filled. How ever, as it is referred to in the Tao Teh Ching it is the empty space inside the bowl that gives it purpose. Metaphorically the bowl is a representation of our mind. If we fill our mind and in turn close it off to any new understanding we our limiting our potential. One of the most important concepts in Daoism is Wei Wu Wei, or, action without action. Like water bending and moving through a stream it is believed that people should act accordingly to nature not challenging or trying to act