e
BU
DDHANET'SBOOK LIBRA
RY
E-mail: bdea@buddhanet.net
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Buddha Dharma Education Association Inc.
A L De Silva
Beyond Belief
eyond elief
uddhist ritique of
undamentalist hristianity
by
A. L. De Silva
ree Gem Publications
Published
ree Gem Publications
Church Street
Camperdown N.S.W.
Australia
ISBN 0 646 21211 7
is book is not intended as an attack on Christianity or main-
stream Christians.
e purpose in publishing this book is to counteract the dog-
matic propaganda of the, so called, “born again” evangelists.
Buddhist Library
Meditation Centre
Church St. Camperdown
N.S.W. Tel.
alama utta
During the Buddha’s time, as now people were and are confused
by the myriad religious beliefs expounded by different religious
teachers who exalted their own teachings and denounced those
of others. is discourse was given by the Buddha when he was
asked by the Kalamas (the citizens of Kesaputta) who were con-
fused over the many religions at that time.
e uddha said:
o not accept anything on mere hearsay (i.e. thinking that
thus we have heard for a long time)
o not accept anything by mere tradition (i.e. thinking
that it has thus been handed down: through many
generations)
o not accept anything on account of rumours (i.e. believing
what others say without investigation)
o not accept anything just because it accords with your
scriptures
o not accept anything by mere supposition
o not accept anything by mere inference
o not accept anything by merely considering the appearances
o not accept anything merely because it agrees with your
preconceived notions
o not accept anything merely because it seems acceptable
(i.e. should be accepted)
o not accept anything thinking that the ascetic is respected;
by us (and therefore it is right to accept his word)
But after observation and analysis, when you find that anything
agrees with and is conducive to the good and benefit of one and
all, then accept and abide by it.
ontents
Kalama Sutta .