Finding Your Way to Inner Peace

Discover the Similarities Between Christianity, Buddhism, and Taoism

Once upon a time, I had coffee with an evangelical pastor. Christians are among the most vigilant promoters of their faith, with some of them making the bold move to evangelize by bicycle.

Let’s call my pastor friend Tom. Tom is one of the brightest human beings I’ve ever known. I was introduced to Tom by another pastor who is a dear friend of mine. Even though we have different opinions, I look for similarities; Tom is a man of faith who does great work in our community. I love him for that.

When we met, I brought a few books I love about Christian mystics, Buddhists, and Taoists, namely the big guys, Buddha and Lao Tzu. When I discussed similarities, Tom revolted and began reciting all the differences. It wasn’t long before I accepted that Tom can’t or won’t see his blind spots because he’s unwilling or unable to see similarities in the great world religions.

One of the most significant breakthroughs I’ve experienced as a human being is choosing the see the similarities because of the suffering found in finding differences, being not okay, and judging people, places, or things as good, bad, okay, not OK, and so on. I was searching for a way to replace my inner turmoil with serenity, and I found my way, which is why I love sharing articles like this.

In the words of mystic Alan Watts, Zen is the ultimate form of spiritual ophthalmology, for me, and millions of others.

The Way to World Peace

We will know world peace when we learn to see the similarities in how different people find their way to spirit. Until then, we must learn to observe and deal with the numb nuts left far behind in the human race, such as Vladimir Putin and all other warmongers.

Two major Eastern philosophies, Buddhism and Taoism, have captivated countless individuals with their profound teachings and spiritual practices. Although distinct in their origins and beliefs, these traditions share intriguing connections and parallel wisdom.

In this article, we will delve into the history of Buddhism, its relationship with Taoism, and the remarkable parallels it shares with Christian sages, saints, mystics, and monks.

A Brief History of Christianity, Buddhism, and Taoism

Christianity is the largest religion globally, with over 2.3 billion followers worldwide. Its roots can be traced back to the 1st century CE, starting with the life and teachings of Jesus Christ in ancient Palestine.

Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire and experienced significant growth after Emperor Constantine's conversion in the 4th century CE. Over the centuries, Christianity diversified into various denominations and traditions, including Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism.

Today, Christianity is significant in Europe, North America, Latin America, Africa, and other parts of the world.

Buddhism

Buddhism, with an estimated 500 million followers worldwide, emerged in the 5th century BCE in ancient India. It was founded by Siddhartha Gautama, also known as the Buddha, who attained enlightenment and taught the path to liberation from suffering.

Buddhism spread across Asia through missionary efforts and trade routes, influencing diverse cultures and adapting to local traditions. Different schools of Buddhism emerged, such as Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.

Today, Buddhism is prevalent in countries like China, Thailand, Japan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and others, with significant communities also found in Western countries.

Taoism

Taoism, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, is an ancient philosophy and religion. It originated with the teachings of Lao Tzu, the legendary sage believed to have authored the Tao Te Ching.

Taoism emphasizes living in harmony with the Tao, meaning "the Way," which represents the natural flow of the universe. Taoism encourages individuals to cultivate virtue, embrace simplicity, and align with the rhythms of nature. Its history dates back to at least the 4th century BCE, and it has significantly influenced Chinese culture, arts, medicine, and philosophy.

While it is challenging to estimate the global Taoist population due to varying degrees of identification, tens of millions of followers are found primarily in China and other East Asian countries.

These three religions have distinct historical narratives and cultural contexts, yet they all profoundly influence the lives of millions worldwide. Each tradition offers unique insights into the nature of existence, human spirituality, and the pursuit of meaning and fulfillment.

Parallel Wisdom of the Ages

The only way to find parallel wisdom is to look for similarities by reading and studying world religion, philosophy, history, philosophy, and as much as possible.

After being a student for decades, I began to see profound insights and parallels that can be found among different traditions within spirituality. It wasn’t until recently that I became comfortable enough to share what I’ve learned. The truth is, the more I learn, the less I know, and the more humbled I am.

Here are a few similarities I spotted in my studies early this morning.

1. "The Kingdom of God is within you." — Jesus Christ. This verse reflects the Buddhist and Taoist emphasis on discovering inner truth and realizing one's inherent divine nature. It suggests that the ultimate source of wisdom and enlightenment resides within each individual.
2. "The highest good is like water." — Lao Tzu In Taoism, water symbolizes the Way — the Tao — flowing effortlessly and adapting to its surroundings. This verse aligns with the Buddhist principle of non-attachment, reminding us of the importance of flexibility, humility, and gentleness. Plus, we've got buckets of water within us.
3. "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind." — Saint Paul. This verse echoes the Buddhist teachings on mindfulness and self-awareness. It emphasizes the transformative power of inner cultivation and the need to transcend societal conditioning.
4. "The supreme good is like water, which nourishes all things without trying to. It is content with the low places that people disdain. Thus it is like the Tao." — Verse from the Tao Te Ching (Chapter 8). This verse from the Tao Te Ching resonates with a verse from the Bible, specifically the Gospel of Matthew (Chapter 5, Verse 5).
5. "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." Matthew 5:5. Both verses highlight the value of humility and the power of yielding rather than asserting dominance. In the Tao Te Ching, water is a metaphor for the supreme good, emphasizing its gentle and nourishing nature. It flows effortlessly, taking the low places that others disregard. Similarly, the Bible verse emphasizes the blessedness of the meek, those who possess humility and do not assert their power over others. Both verses suggest true strength and fulfillment are found in embracing a humble and unassuming attitude.

These verses share a common theme of recognizing the power and wisdom in qualities like humility, meekness, and non-assertiveness. They remind individuals to let go of ego-driven desires for control and to embrace a more receptive and gentle approach to life.

By aligning with the natural flow of things and not seeking dominance, one can find harmony and inherit the fullness of life. Doing so aligns with the inherent harmony of the Tao or divine plan, leading to greater fulfillment and peace.

The Harmony of Buddhism and the Tao

Although originating from different regions and cultures, Buddhism and Taoism share profound insights into the nature of reality, human existence, and spiritual liberation.

Both traditions advocate for inner transformation, harmony with nature, and cultivating wisdom and compassion. In exploring the parallels with Christian sages, saints, mystics, and monks, we discover remarkable similarities in their teachings. These parallels emphasize the universal nature of spiritual wisdom, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

While Buddhism and Taoism have unique approaches and practices, they highlight the importance of self-discovery, mindfulness, compassion, and living in harmony with the world. They remind us to seek inner truth, cultivate virtues, and transcend the ego's illusions.

In the words of Christian mystic Meister Eckhart, “The eye through which I see God is the same eye through which God sees me; my eye and God’s eye are one eye, one seeing, one knowing, one love.”

This profound statement resonates with the Buddhist concept of interdependence and the interconnectedness of all beings. It encourages us to realize our inherent oneness with the divine and the interconnected web of existence.

Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his deep love for nature and all living beings, encapsulated the essence of Buddhism and Taoism when he said, “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.”

This sentiment echoes the Buddhist emphasis on compassion, loving-kindness, and cultivating a peaceful heart. It also reflects the Taoist ideal of living in harmony with the natural world, embracing non-violence, and promoting balance and serenity.

Discover the Way of Christian Mystic Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton knew the Way as a Christian mystic who embraced Catholicism and bridged the metaphysical chasm between the East and West.

Merton is one of my heroes in this way because he shows Christians the Way many will never know or see. The profound writings of Christian mystic Thomas Merton mirror the contemplative practices found in Buddhism and Taoism.

Merton's exploration of silence, solitude, and the mystical union with the divine aligns with the meditative traditions and the quest for transcendence in Buddhism and Taoism. His words remind us of the profound depth and transformative power of inner stillness and self-realization.

“Zen teaches nothing; it merely enables us to wake up and become aware. It does not teach, it points.” — Thomas Merton

In conclusion, Buddhism, Taoism, and Christianity offer profound insights into the human experience, spiritual growth, and the quest for liberation from suffering.

While they may have distinct cultural origins, these traditions share common threads of wisdom that resonate with spiritual teachings from various traditions, including Christianity.

Through these parallels, we can recognize the universality of the human quest for truth, inner peace, and transcendence. May you find your Way by searching inside yourself.

This article was originally published at Medium. I'm a partner in a commercial real estate investment, development, and consulting firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona. When not serving our client investors, my passion and mission is empowering people to transform by understanding the convergence of faith, spirituality, psychology, and neuroscience. Subscribe to the Soul Psyche Newsletter on Substack by?clicking here.