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Article
The Dalai Lama and the World Religions: A False Friend?
Religious Studies
  • Jane Compson, University of Washington Tacoma
Publication Date
6-1-1996
Document Type
Article
Abstract

The Dalai Lama is well known for his tolerance of other religious traditions, actively encouraging people to celebrate their own faiths rather than convert to Buddhism. However, far from being a pluralist as this attitude suggests, he believes that ultimate liberation is obtained only through the practice of Buddhist teachings. This apparent contradiction is resolved when one examines some of the teachings that he follows, such as the notions of emptiness (sūnyatā), skilful means (upāya), karma and rebirth. On such examination it becomes apparent that it is precisely through the prioritising of these Buddhist teachings that his tolerance is rendered possible.

DOI
10.1017/S0034412500024276
Publisher Policy
pre-print, post-print, pub PDF after 12-month embargo
Citation Information
Jane Compson. "The Dalai Lama and the World Religions: A False Friend?" Religious Studies Vol. 32 Iss. 2 (1996) p. 271 - 279
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/jane_compson/1/