30/09/2025
Be cautious when converting to Buddhism, says the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet.
"First of all, Buddhism corresponds to a new tradition, a religion which did not previously exist in the West.
Consequently, it is normal that all those who are interested in Buddhism in its Tibetan form would also like to be informed about and continue to study other religions and traditions. This is perfectly natural.
However, for those who are seriously thinking of converting to Buddhism, that is, of changing your religion, it is very important to take every precaution. This must not be done lightly.
Indeed, if one converts without having thought about it in a mature way, this often creates difficulties and leads to great inner confusion. I would therefore advise all who would like to convert to Buddhism to think carefully before doing so.
Second, when an individual is convinced that Buddhist teachings are better adapted to his or her disposition, that they are more effective, it is quite right that this religion be chosen. However, human nature being what it is, after their conversion and in order to justify it, such a person may have a tendency to want to criticize his or her original religion.
This must be avoided at all costs. Even if the previous religion does not seem as effective as he or she would have liked (and this is the reason for the change), this is not sufficient reason to claim that the old religion is ineffective for the human spirit. That religion continues to bring immense good to millions of people.
For this reason, as Buddhists, we must respect the rights of others, for other religions help millions of people. In particular, we are in the process of trying to create and maintain a perfect harmony among all religions. In these circumstances it is absolutely essential to be aware of the need to respect other religions."
Extracted from the Dharmakara website, link in comments.
Original source: Extended Quote from “Beyond Dogma – the challenge of the modern world” by HH Dalai Lama, pages 139-143.
English translation published by Souvenir Press, UK, 1997. Originally published in French as ‘Au-dela des Dogmes’ by Éditions Albin Michel S.A., Paris.
A link to the extract is available in the comments.
