Why is Buddhism considered a religion and not a philosophy?

[Herm]

I know it can be considered both, but why would it be considered a RELIGION and not a philosophy?

Please explain!

[fmercury777]

Actually, in Buddhism, deities aren't involved. A Buddhist can have his or own deities, but it isn't essential to the Buddhist lifestyle. Also, there isn't any "faith" involved. It's a way of life. That is why I consider Buddhism a philosophy.

[nerdlinger]

Some forms of Buddhism are devotional, have deities that one can pray to, and versions of Heaven. Pure Land is an example.

[nerdlinger]

Some forms of Buddhism are devotional, have deities that one can pray to, and versions of Heaven. Pure Land is an example.

[Skalite]

It evolved from Hindu traditions, which were religious in nature.

In many Buddhist traditions, however, there are many religious aspects. Such as rituals, blessings, funeral processions, and doctrine. It's all really window dressing, but it's there none the less.

[P'ang]

The founder of Buddhism, Shakyamuni Buddha, did not consider his teachings to be either religion or philosophy. Nor did he consider it a "lifestyle."

Buddha referred to his teachings as "shiksha," a Sanskrit term that means "system of training."

Buddhist practice trains us in wisdom, generosity, compassion, and creativity.

Given the extraordinary suffering produced by religious belief and philosophical ideas, perhaps we'd all be better off if we simply trained in Buddhism. And let go of belief altogether.

[WisePagan]

Because there are :
a) miracles involved
b) deities involved
c) the belief that faith is essential
d) elements that contradict the status quo

Buddhists are not exactly "atheist" like so many people try to categorize them... Meditation for a Buddhist is more "magical" than it is for an atheist...

And anyone who suggests that there are no deities in Buddhism has not studied the Taras.