Not quite. Zen Buddhism is a lot like his version. Zen Buddhism holds a strong belief in obtaining enlightenment through meditation. Although, they do adhere to the basic principles of Buddhism.

As for Tore's comment on sexism in Buddhism, I'll go with what the other guy said. He sad that those are just other sects of Buddhism. I personally follow the Theravada tradition which, to my knowledge, has never spread any ideals neglecting women or promoting cast systems (which aren't as bad as many westerners promote).

as a theravada buddhist do you subscribe to no afterlife?

i was a Taoist-Buddhist but it had zilch to do with the actual teachings of Buddha, it was mostly mystical mumbo-jumbo with idol worships, lots of rituals (incense offerings, burning papers to get rid of enemies, to bring good luck, etc) and celebrating birthdays of deities by going vegetarian

I do not. I also don't quite follow rebirth either. Nor do I believe in a god. But all three of those are coming from an agnostic approach. I cannot say for certain that all three don't exist, I just have doubt that they do. We can't ever know for certain.

Needless to say, however, I don't need to believe in them because they are irrelevant in achieving happiness. I think we are perfectly capable of improving ourselves and aiding others without the motive of receiving a paradise-like afterlife. If anything, that is kind of a selfish reason to go about things. Don't you think?

I also learned from a few Buddhists who take residence in Thailand that every sect of Buddhism has rituals, religious dogma, etc. It doesn't matter if it is in the Mahayana tradition or the Theravada tradition. So, I was wrong when I mentioned in this thread about Theravada Buddhism (as a whole) rejecting pointless, faith-based beliefs and actions.

I agree with everything you said here. I have even been saying this to my roommate for the past few weeks.

He was Christian but he lost his faith and now he's not sure what he wants to label himself. He's leaning heavily towards just being an Atheist for now until he figures out what he wants to do/believe in.

Has your friend looked into any philosophies or religions yet?

No, he hasn't. He wants to take a break from all religions so he can collect his thoughts.

In Taoist-Buddhism, everybody goes to Hell. There're different levels of Hell, depending on your deeds. Most people usually end up in Level 1, waiting for rebirth. The cruel hardcore end up in Level 18, where the Lord of the Underworld subject them to cruel torture.

Only those who attain Godhood end up in Heaven.

Makes sense.


And that is why I do not believe in an afterlife. Plus, Buddha rarely ever mentioned gods or an afterlife (if at all). The kind of belief that you shared with us was most likely adopted from Brahmanism (precursor to Hinduism) by early Buddhists.