The Parallel Lives of Buddha and Jesus…in Deed

The similarities in the life stories of Jesus and the Buddha are as compelling as the parallels in their thoughts. The resemblances in their birth accounts are especially remarkable: Both were born of chaste women amid blinding light from the heavens. There is even a Buddhist legend that the newborn child was wrapped in swaddling clothes.

Jesus

When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit…This took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son.” (Matthew 1:18, 22–23)

Buddha

When the Bodhisattva had descended into his mother’s womb, no sensual thought arose in her concerning men, and she was inaccessible to any man having a lustful mind. (Majjhima Nikaya 123.10)

Like the wise men who herald Jesus’ coming, Indian sages pay homage to Buddha. Brilliant stars and heavenly lights illuminate the night sky, dazzling the humble men who are led to the newborn babies.

In that region there were shepherds living in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.” (Luke 2:8–10)