Sati1 wrote:Hello,
I have been struggling with this question recently, having been raised as a Christian, where it was often emphasized that one must try to convert non-believers. From the doctrine of kamma, I would think that there is no point in trying to "convert" someone, since their kamma might prevent them from understanding the teachings, no matter what one says. This idea makes sense from my own experience in talking about Dhamma to others. None of the 5 Precepts, or the 8-fold Path encourage trying to convert others. On the other hand, it seems like bringing someone to the Dhamma must be a tremendously compassionate and meritorious act. While it often seems easiest just to live my Buddhist faith in private, that also feels like a selfish strategy. Any thoughts on this? And does anybody have a citation from a sutta on this topic?
Many thanks
It is inappropriate for any religion to attempt to Convert others. This is a manifestation of the "Social Ego".
Churches do this, largely for profits.
It is inappropriate to do anything regarding spirituality for the purpose of profit, membership, notoriety, or because you personally think "You are right". That is the very definition of Ego.
To Convert others, is a pure manifestation of the Ego.
Those who come to you with an interest, however, it is very appropriate to help them find the answers they are seeking, but be weary of simply repeating the things you yourself have only heard, read, and so on.
All of the Religions are wrong, to include Buddhism, to be honest. This is not to say that Jesus is a problem, or the Buddha, but that the Organizations themselves are run by men, who are unenlightened, often trying to profit and prosper off of other men who are unenlightened. The Catholic church is particularly bad in this regard.
The word "Convert" should never come from the mouth, or linger long in the mind of anyone seeking to live in accordance with the Dhamma.
Period.
That is your EGO that wants to convert others.
Find it. Look at it. Kick it out the door. Let it go.
Only harm comes from "Recruitment" efforts in Religion. The Universe does NOT like them, at all. I promise you this.