The Parallel Lives of Buddha and Jesus…in Thought
Sidebar to: Part I
Many of Jesus’ most famous sayings are mirrored in the words of the Buddha.a Most striking of all the parallels between Jesus’ and Buddha’s words are those dealing with love and compassion.
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Jesus This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. (John 15:12–13) Do to others as you would have them do to you. (Luke 6:31) If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also. (Luke 6:29) Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. From anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. (Luke 6:27–30) |
Buddha Just as a mother would protect her only child at the risk of her own life, even so, cultivate a boundless heart towards all beings. Let your thoughts of boundless love pervade the whole world. (Sutta Nipata 149–150) Consider others as yourself. (Dhammapada 10.1) If anyone should give you a blow with his hand, with a stick, or with a knife, you should abandon any desires and utter not evil words. (Majjhima Nikaya 21.6) |
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