Buddhism and the teachings of the Buddha are two completely different animals.

[Avalux]

There's a been a bit of discussion here about Buddhists committing acts of violence. As some have stated, through the centuries Buddhism has changed and splintered as it spread throughout India and Asia, and violence has marred its history.

What I do want to point out is that Buddha, and his teachings, do not in any way condone violence. From the Dhamma:

“Monks, even if bandits were to savagely sever you, limb by limb, with a double-handled saw, even then, whoever of you harbors ill will at heart would not be upholding my Teaching. Monks, even in such a situation you should train yourselves thus: ‘Neither shall our minds be affected by this, nor for this matter shall we give vent to evil words, but we shall remain full of concern and pity, with a mind of love, and we shall not give in to hatred. On the contrary, we shall live projecting thoughts of universal love to those very persons, making them as well as the whole world the object of our thoughts of universal love — thoughts that have grown great, exalted and measureless. We shall dwell radiating these thoughts which are void of hostility and ill will.’ It is in this way, monks, that you should train yourselves.”

As in any religion or philosophy, when people use it as a tool to manipulate others, the core teachings get interpreted and changed from their true meaning. There are many different forms of Buddhism, each with their own rituals and offshoot beliefs.

So to those claiming that Buddhists commit acts of violence in the name of Buddhism, I don't disagree.

However, justification of violent acts (for any reason), is not present in the Dhamma.

[Warpy]

1. I remember a story some years ago out of Thailand

about 2 lines of young monks from different sects passing each other on a road, fighting words turning into a fight. They were all defrocked and sent home to their parents.

The upshot is that even people receiving training in nonviolence are still human. It's why it's called "practice" and not sainthood.

In fact, if you've ever talked to one of those old monks, you don't know if you're talking to a saint, a conman, or a used car salesman.

Only in the west are religious people expected to be earthly saints. They seem to know better in Asia.

Besides, the most unpleasant people I have met in my lifetime are people who are trying for sainthood.

[Avalux]

2. Interesting.

And thank you for your reply, I guess this topic isn't very popular, or maybe I just don't make any sense.