Buddhism from a Catholic Perspective

by Paul M. Williams

Buddhism is recognized as one of the world's great religions, yet it is probably the least understood. Paul Williams, Professor of Indian and Tibetan Philosophy and convert to Catholicism, explains the main tenets of Buddhism and its methods of prayer and meditation, comparing and contrasting them with the Cattholic faith. He draws out the key differences between Buddhism and Christianity with great clarity. A pocket-sized book packed with useful information.

Genres: Christianity

80 pages, Paperback

Published October 18, 2006

Reviews

[Christopher Blosser · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative presentation of Buddhism from Paul Williams — as Emeritus Professor of Indian and Tibetan Philosophy at the University of Bristol, England, former director for the University's Centre for Buddhist Studies, and former President of the UK Association for Buddhist Studies one might say he is, even as a Catholic convert, aptly qualified to speak on the subject.

Williams provides a clear, respectful if succinct survey of Buddhism, followed by a discussion of various points of metaphysics and doctrine where Buddhism and Christianity might engage in dialogue.

Williams is justifiably critical of any attempts to “blur the lines” of delineation between the two, wary of the casual and sloppy syncretism that tends to result from attempts to meld Buddhism with Christian practice. Especially helpful is his articulation of the very tangible distinctions between Buddhist and Christian meditation.

[Blake Reas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent intro and assessment by a former Buddhist who became a Catholic. He briefly summarises Buddhist Dhamma and gives brief critique then compares it to Christianity. Not as good as Netland and Yandell but solid none the less.