Buddhism? Philosophy or Religion?

[Ask.Kelly]

i was asking a question on What your personal views are on Buddhism. Some of the answers were inadequate so i have to ask again. What are your personal views on Buddhism? Have you heard of Buddhism?
Is it a religion or just a philosophy? What do YOU think?

I am a Theravada Buddhist and No you don't need to be vegetarian to be Buddhist.

I'm a Buddhist too. To me it is much more than a philosophy because it has such powerful influence on a great number of people when philosophers influences on the people is more limited. I think thats the difference between Religion and Philosophy. Religions can bring powerful influence on people.

what are your views. Thank you for sharing.

[I AM Kitty!]

A labmate is a Buddhist. His beliefs definately are more religious than philosophical.

[Sammi]

Have I ever heard? LOL

Of course, I haven't been living in a cave all my life.

Buddhism is like the Eastern Judaism, it's the most ancient monotheistic religion in Asia.
It's a very tolerant religion, not too demanding on people and only requires to carry out very simple rituals to become a Buddhist. It's easy to follow.

Also it's popular with celebrities.. lol

[Peripheral Prankster]

Thinking pattern...

that in the end....

is lack thereof.

[Warrior Poo Flinger]

I agree with your views. Some may follow it as a philosophy and find perfect contentment in it. I think those people are practicing for their next go round on this planet. Others think its atheistic because they have never considered a god that is not personified, but is more of an energy, consciousness, dare I say force, that is the Divine. Those that realize that any Divine Self is no self, are that much closer to leaving the amusement park and going home to Nirvana.

[Josh K]

I prefer philosophy. It makes you think deep inside. Trying to connect these insane but beautiful mysteries of everything, is truly amazing. People should give it a try
I prefer no religion because it teache's you to be satisfied with something way too easy.

[life_irony]

If you follow the Buddhist way of life but never think why you should do it, then it is religion.

If you follow the Buddhist way of life but think deeply about it, then it is a philosophy.

[benjamin QMM]

I was going to say philosophy before I read your question through. I have a slightly stronger respect for the word philosophy than you do however.
I now think it is a religion.
I knew you didn't have to be a vegetarian.
peace

[What About That, Huhn?]

It doesn't matter what it is you are doing. I love to play pool. But I never succeed in running the table (sinking all the balls in one turn) unless I stay relaxed and the only things in the world are the stick, the balls I'm lining up and the pocket. At that moment, when I'm clicking them in one after the other - I feel enlightened. I also, at that moment, feel that the Universe is aligning itself through me - rather than me aligning a pool shot.

Is that a philosophy or a spiritual belief?

[Old Timer Too]

My thoughts on the subject:

Religion = philosophy.

Philosophy = a way of life or path.

All religions are philosophical to one degree or another and one's philosophy governs the path followed by the individual.

I consider Buddhism to be a path, first, and a religion, second.

I consider Christianity to a religion first, and a path for some. Others tend to talk, but don't do much walking...