How to Convert to Buddhism

Contributor

By Pamela Gardapee
eHow Contributing Writer

Article Rating: (7 Ratings)

To convert to Buddhism is not as easy as most would think. It is another religion that is different from many others. As a Buddhist, one must follow the beliefs and follow no other beliefs. It does take dedication and a willingness to live according to the beliefs. It does help to have someone to talk about before deciding about converting to Buddhism. Follow these steps to learn more about converting to Buddhism. They give an idea about what to expect.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Belief
Willpower

How to Convert to Buddhism

Step 1

The first thing about converting to Buddhism is reading about what makes this religion different from others. Every religion is different and has a belief different from each other. It is important to know about the religion before converting.
Step 2

A person that decides to convert to Buddhism needs to know about the four noble truths. The four truths are how life can be unhappy and bad. The second is what suffering comes from and the third is ending the suffering. The fourth is about the path yu must follow to end the suffering.
Step 3

Next, one must decide to follow the eightfold path and the percepts that go with it. They are right knowledge, right thinking, right conduct, and right livelihood, right effort, right mindfulness and right concentration. The percepts are do not kill, steal, lie, cheat or use drugs or drink alcohol.
Step 4

The forth step is to take refuge in the Sangha, Dhamma and the Buddha. This step is taken to become a Buddhist. The belief is what all Buddhists believe in and follow.
Step 5

Decide how to make Buddhism a part of ones entire life. This is the final step to becoming and converting to Buddhism.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure that you find out all the information about the religion before converting.
May not be suitable for everyone.

Comments

willowtree2k9 said

Flag This Comment

on 10/30/2009 I'm a teenage girl looking for a religion that appeals to me and I think that Buddhism is the one but I don't know much about the faith or traditions.Also i'm not sure how to make my dedication to Buddhism final. Any information or helpful websites you can provide?

willowtree2k9 said

Flag This Comment

wrams said

Flag This Comment

on 9/13/2009 I agree with coolprofessor. The Buddhist way is NOT a religion but a way of life. It is bringing your heart, mind and soul to one and being happy with life. Also putting your worries behind you and exepting the teachings as you want to and learning a better way of living and thinking. I want to learn the Buddha way and feel happy and free. Buddhism is about learning wisdom and being content with your life. Its philosophy and taking the right path to a happy and peaceful minded life style. Follow the four noble truths and the eightfold path and you will become a far better person.

coolprofessor said

Flag This Comment

on 4/14/2009 As a Buddhist, I find this essay to be somewhat distorting. In the first place, it is not difficult in the least to become a Buddhist. All one has to do is to find value in Buddhist teachings. One does not have to "convert" because the Buddha never claimed to be a god, and so does not have commandments. Buddhist teachings are only guides, which every person is free to consider for themselves. Simply read some Buddhist writings, and talk to Buddhist monks, nuns, or lay people, and decide if it makes sense for you. Buddhism does not ask that you believe in lies, or things that go against reason or science. Buddhism is based in reason, from the Four Noble Truths to modern teachings. Consider freely. Don't worry about "converting," just read and think for yourself.