Hinduism Vs. Buddhism

Modern medicine has worked great wonders for humanity. Modern medicine plays a vital role in Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and practices. Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and practices in modern medicine are similar in some aspects; however, in other aspects they are different.

Both Hindus and Buddhists believe in spiritual well being. Hindus have a spiritual well-being that comes from leading a dedicated life based on non-violence, love, good conduct, and selfless service. Hinduism follows the theory of Karma. Pain and suffering may be seen as the result of sinful acts in this or previous lives. (Gatrad, Choudhury, Brown, & Sheikh, 2003) Buddhists have a spiritual well-being that involves developing the mind to its fullest potential and working with the suffering of illness and death, with its emphasis on the balanced interaction between the mind and the body as well as between life and its environment.

For Hindus, knowing the exact time of a baby’s birth is important for the child’s horoscope. In an American hospital, when the mother is giving birth to the child, the Hindu husband may be present at birth. A Hindu woman wouldn’t request for special care. She would want her husband’s advice on any medical advice. But the eldest family members determine who will make treatment decisions. A Hindu baby is breast fed and the males are not circumcised. Most Hindus do not approve of abortion regardless of being raped, or the baby having deformities. However, birth control is approved and practiced.

Buddhists believe in reincarnation. Human birth is special because there is a rare opportunity for the complete development of the mind and practice of compassion. Buddhists believe that conception occurs when consciousness enters a fertilized egg. This is the beginning of life and if the future life is terminated then this is abortion. However, birth control that prevents conception is acceptable. (University of Virginia Health System, 2007)

Many Hindus and Buddhists in America eat meat. The Hindus that does eat meat abstain from eating beef and pork. Chicken and fish may be accepted to some Hindus, but many are strict vegetarians and connect this dietary choice to spirituality. (Jootum, 2002) Within different branches of Buddhism, there are vegetarians, as well as non-vegetarians. Some branches have strict dietary rules, while other branches have few.

Both Hindus and Buddhists have personal devotions. Hindus personal devotions may consist of prayer, meditation, and the reading of scriptures. A small picture or statue of a Deity may be used in prayer; as well a mantram may be recited on a mala. Prayer for recovery from illness is generally unacceptable. Buddhists personal devotions involve verbal prayers,