Hello, someone please enlighten me.... (Jesus, ritual, mystic, tradition)

[Gandhi_is_my_hero]

Okay, this past summer I went on a mission trip for my Methodist church. It was a memorable experience, both physically and mentally. That is where I began questioning Christianity. I'm not sure why, but I just can't accept the idea of Jesus dying for us. I'm not doubting he died for us, but I'm unsure that it's valid. Ever since then I've been on a quest, to find the right religion for me. I picked up Gandhi's autobiography and was spellbounded of how great of a person he was. I guess you could say he introduced me to Hinduism. I became very interested in Hinduism, and began reading more about it online. I also picked up a book from my library at my High School which listed all of the religions of the Eastern hemisphere. That is how I learned about Buddhism. So now I have narrowed my selections down to 2 religions. Hinduism or Buddhism. But I have one question, since Hinduism is based on a caste system, do they allow conversion? If you took the time in reading this, I'm very appreciative, and if you could answer my questions, I'd be very grateful. Thank you.

[Feathers in Hair]

Hello and welcome, Gandhi! I hope you stay with us! (We've got links for newer members in my signature.)

To be honest, one of the best things that I find about religion is that you don't have to limit yourself to just one. I enjoy finding out what makes sense to me from a number of faiths.(Though if you're from a monotheistic background, that might not be what you're used to- I know I wasn't!) I'm sure our Hindu members can help you in terms of the caste system, however.

[Buttercup]

Hi and Welcome to RF......this is a great place to ask questions regarding your spiritual journey and to debate and discuss what you already know. But the most important thing to remember is....you needn't be in a hurry. Take your time finding what suits you spirtually and enjoy the process along the way.

Have a great time on RF!

[evearael]

Welcome to RF! I look forward to your posts! I'm sure our Buddhist and Hindu members will be able to help you with your questions.

[michel]

Hi Gandhi_is_my_hero,


Welcome to Religiousforums!

What a worthwhile hero to have! I must admit that there is a lot of Buddhism, Hinduism (and other Religions) that I very much admire and agree with, and all are a part of my 'composite' faith.


I hope you get to enjoy your time with us; please feel at home, and if there is anything about which you are not sure, please don't hesitate to ask.

[Tigress]

Originally Posted by Gandhi_is_my_hero

Hello,

Hello, and welcome to RF!

someone please enlighten me....

Alice came to a fork in the road. "Which road do I take?" she asked.
"Where do you want to go?" responded the Cheshire cat.
"I don't know," Alice answered.
"Then," said the cat, "it doesn't matter."
- Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

But I have one question, since Hinduism is based on a caste system, do they allow conversion?

Does Hinduism Accept Newcomers?, courtesy of the Himalayan Academy.
Another opinion, 'Ask the Pundits,' courtesy of Karma to Grace.

[MysticSang'ha]

Originally Posted by Gandhi_is_my_hero

Okay, this past summer I went on a mission trip for my Methodist church. It was a memorable experience, both physically and mentally. That is where I began questioning Christianity. I'm not sure why, but I just can't accept the idea of Jesus dying for us. I'm not doubting he died for us, but I'm unsure that it's valid. Ever since then I've been on a quest, to find the right religion for me. I picked up Gandhi's autobiography and was spellbounded of how great of a person he was. I guess you could say he introduced me to Hinduism. I became very interested in Hinduism, and began reading more about it online. I also picked up a book from my library at my High School which listed all of the religions of the Eastern hemisphere. That is how I learned about Buddhism. So now I have narrowed my selections down to 2 religions. Hinduism or Buddhism. But I have one question, since Hinduism is based on a caste system, do they allow conversion? If you took the time in reading this, I'm very appreciative, and if you could answer my questions, I'd be very grateful. Thank you.

Tashe delek and welcome to RF!




Ghandi, from what I understand, there are some Hindus who believe that the tradition is based more upon ethnicity, and therefore conversion would be difficult. However, the Vedantic tradition allows for interpretation of Hindu scriptures for people to see it as a philosophy or a set of beliefs, and therefore conversion is always allowable. You can pick and choose which parts of scriptures you want to incorporate into your life, and *poof*, you could call yourself a Hindu if you want.



Ah, but that's from what I know. Maybe others who are more immersed with the practices might have better insight than I.




Happy posting!




Peace,
Mystic

[Green Gaia]

Hello and welcome to RF!

[Random]

Hi there, GIMH, welcome to the forums.

There are quite a lot of important differences between Hinduism and Buddhism, I think you shall have to find out which ones beliefs most reflect your own reasoned and intuitive inclinations. As far as I know, converting to Buddhism only requires showing up to a temple or class where a monk teaches and taking Refuge. Rather than worrying about "officially" converting to Hinduism, I think you'd be better off seeking out a personal Guru to teach it to you.

Hope you find your path either way.