..续本文上一页t, when compared with modem achievements. It advises one not to become a slave to any external power but to cultivate one”s own hidden potential and use one”s own effort and intelligence to resolve one”s problems.

　　It has every quality required of a rational religion that will fit into the present and future world. It is rational, progressive and reasonable. It will be beneficial for anyone to study and realize the value of this religion in the modern world. It is acknowledged to be more scientific than science and more progressive than all the progressive elements in the spiritual field. It is one of the most effective means to be utilised for.the maintenance of world peace, harmony and understanding.

　　No Discrimination

　　It was this religion which, for the first time in world history, revolted against the degrading caste system and taught equality of mankind, according equal opportunities for all to distinguish themselves in every walk of life. It was also this religion that first gave freedom to women by encouraging them to study and practise a religion that bestowed social equalities.

　　The Great Teacher declared that the gates to success and prosperity were open to all in every condition of life whether high or low, saint or criminal, who would care, seek and aspire for perfection. He did not force his followers to be slaves either to Himself or His teachings but granted them complete freedom of thought and investigation so that they could gain self-confidence.

　　This religion classifies the living being into mind and matter which are in a state of constant change, not remaining the same for two consecutive moments. Mind and matter arise and perish and the cycles go on. Therefore nothing will remain permanently either in this world or elsewhere in the universe. Because everything which exists in any part of the universe is nothing but a combination of elements and energies, it is quite natural that these things will one day disintegrate and the formations disappear totally. This religion also teaches us that every existing component thing is subject to changes and conflicts owing to worldly conditions or universal laws.

　　The principles observed by this religion are not commandments. By observing the precepts such as abstaining from Killing, Stealing, Sexual Misconduct, Telling Lies and Taking Intoxicating Drinks, the followers can purify themselves and enable others to live peacefully.

　　Our Aim

　　Our aim in publishing this article is not to convert others into our faith but to enlighten them on how to seek peace and happiness and to practise their own religious convictions without resorting to blind faith. We encourage every person to practise his own religion properly if he can truly find truth, peace, happiness, wisdom and salvation in it. What we want is for man to lead a respectable religious life without abusing his human dignity.

　　However, this religion may be the answer to many of your religious, spiritual and human problems or it may give fresh direction to your thinking on religious and philosophical matters. It may also help you to understand the way of life and cultural heritage of Asia. You may find in this religion the spiritual guidance the modern world needs.

　　This religion brought into the world a new spirit, a new hope, a new path, the truth of which and the necessity of which is seen and felt today as of old. The great religion referred to is "Buddhism" and its founder is none other than "Gautama The Buddha."

　　Whatever may be your purpose, we invite you to take a closer look at this religion and the ideals of the founder. We are ready to help you in your search for truth. Therefore, Be Unbiased, Avoid Religious Prejudices, Try to Find the Truth.

　　[Taken from Gems of Buddhist Wisdom, ed. Buddhist Missionary Society, (Malaysia:1996), pp. 17-33]

《What Is This Religion

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