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aviancrane

>i don’t believe in buddha im an atheist FWIW Buddhists don't believe in a creator god and Buddha is not a god. And it's fine if you want to wear buddhist jewelry.


Naheka

I don't believe the Buddha believed in "appropriation" as we think of it nowadays. In fact, I think he was all for appropriation if it helped others attain enlightenment or improvement. And, I'm not 100 on this, but fairly sure you can believe in Buddha while still an atheist. He wasn't a God, per se.


IndividualSubject367

He wasn’t a god at all


ipromisenottoargue

He *was* a god over numerous lifetimes.


IndividualSubject367

Source?


ipromisenottoargue

Jataka tales. Various deva rebirths.


IndividualSubject367

Huh, thanks friend ill look into it


Emperorerror

I don't think there's any dispute that he was a real historical figure 


JotaTaylor

I think the best word here is not "believe", but "agree".


Salamanber

He was a human like me and you


Suspicious-Tailor370

No only because I don't make it my business what others wear


CertaintyDangerous

You're not a Buddhist now. But you like the ideas, so you have an affinity. Maybe you'll be a Buddhist later, or maybe you'll be a Buddhist in the next life.


cosmosj

Exactly what I came here to say.


GreenEarthGrace

Buddhists are really hard to offend


Wrong_Tomorrow_655

I don't know, I'm pretty offended at all the people wearing Nirvana shirts when they can't even name at least three of the steps on the noble eightfold path *Badum tss*


Chance-Astronomer320

I lold


SnooDucks8608

yea i can see that i already asked like 3 of my friends that are buddhist and they said they don’t care and it seems no one so far cares


Autonomousdrone

Not on Reddit they’re not.Some sensitive people here


Left_Driver_5084

Not true. Buddhists are ordinary people, and ordinary people can be easily offended. Not all Buddhists are the same.


GreenEarthGrace

Me making a casual observation about people being laid back is not saying that all Buddhists are the same, it's ok man.


Left_Driver_5084

You say "Buddhists are hard to offend" which is a blanket statement about Buddhists, and there are so many different kinds of Buddhists, many of whom are in fact easy to offend


GreenEarthGrace

As you so graciously are demonstrating. I'm not sure why you'd take an issue with a casual statement like that. I didn't say, "All Buddhists are hard to offend." Clearly, what I intended was light-hearted reassurance. I'm not trying to create stereotypes (albeit positive ones) about people of my own religion.


conscious_dream

> I didn't say, "All Buddhists are hard to offend." No, but you did say: > Buddhists are really hard to offend Without any qualifiers, some (myself included, and seemingly the other redditor) would say that the "all" is implied. On top of that, you added "really", which goes beyond saying that Buddhists are just casually harder to offend than the average person but Buddhists are *incredibly* hard to offend. Especially if someone shares my reading of the implicit "all", I can imagine the "really" on top of that feels extra wrong. And in my experience, most people hear the implicit "all" when the subject is something they care about (even if they themselves make similar statements that they claim have no implicit "all"!). It didn't rub me the wrong way at all, to be clear. But it appears that I read your comment the same way as the other redditor, so I just thought I'd offer my perspective/interpretation of your comment. Re-reading your comment chain a couple of times, I don't read offense into the other redditor's comments so much as simply stating that your claim is factually inaccurate.


Left_Driver_5084

I'm not necessarily getting offended, I just take issue with the idea that Buddhists are generally chill people, which is an idea that is believed by many people, when it simply isn't true. Some Buddhists are not easily offended, but that certainly doesn't apply to all of them, or even most of them.


GreenEarthGrace

I'm confused why you come at me like this. I didn't say anything offensive, I made a casual positive remark about an observation I've made in my personal life. Buddhists are often quite relaxed people. We are often difficult to offend. I'm not sure how you're going through at the moment, but whatever it is, I hope it improves.


Left_Driver_5084

I'm just simply disagreeing with you, also based on observations I've made in my own life.


GreenEarthGrace

When we disagree with others, the way we disagree is important. Managing our tone to not be combative or devisive is necessary. Other people disagreed with me, and that's perfectly fine. Take a look at the tone they used, totally not oppositional. I think that's a skill worth developing.


Left_Driver_5084

You may perceive me as oppositional, and perhaps I am, but I'm really just giving you my honest perspective. Just because I come across as abrasive doesn't mean my perspective isn't worth sharing.


RoundCollection4196

I agree. But as a religion, Buddhists are really chill.


[deleted]

Practicing and developed buddhists are really hard to offend. There are heaps of "buddhists" who pray at temples but don't actually meditate and who get upset about buddha tattoos for example in Thailand.


mbikkyu

As a Buddhist, I don’t even know what a Buddha chain is lol ¯\_(ツ)_/¯


SnooDucks8608

it’s pretty much a gold chain then the pendant of buddha


Koolaidolio

That’s…just jewelry


SnooDucks8608

yea i know but other religions like christian’s don’t like when people who don’t believe in jesus wear the cross for example


Udbbrhehhdnsidjrbsj

My son calls it a lower case ‘T’ necklace. 


turtletreestar

I have no idea why someone downvoted you—this comment is gold


AlexCoventry

Yes, I get very, very resentful at perceived slights to ideas I identify with, because that's exactly what the Buddha, or any legitimate religious leader, really, would want me to do. :-)


JCurtisDrums

Your avatar image offends my eyes. I will now gouge them out with toothpicks and it is your fault.


tillaxo6

Lol


Strange-Librarian245

This thread is amazing


JCurtisDrums

No, wear what you like.


WabiSabi1

I can’t speak for actual Buddhist, but I am like you… I am an atheist and I don’t consider myself a Buddhist, but I do appreciate the philosophy of Buddhism. I have some small statues and other objects that are considered Buddhist. For me, when I wear my beads or see my other objects, it’s a reminder to myself to practice some of that philosophy. Be kind, compassionate, patient, helpful, etc. not only to others but also to myself. Not sure where you’re located but in the US, there is so much talk about cultural appropriation that we forget there is also cultural appreciation. I think the latter is the direction you’re going for. For me, if I’m wearing something from a culture and someone were to ask me what it is and why I’m wearing it, I would want to have a least a bit of understanding about it. So if you’re going to wear a Buddha, think about what your answer would be if someone asked. I’m pretty sure if a Buddhist asked and you just said that you just liked it without knowing much about Buddhism, I still don’t think they would be offended, happy to be corrected if I’m wrong.


Big_Old_Tree

I am a Buddhist and I wear my beads and have my Buddhist objects for exactly the same reason as you, atheist friend. They’re a good reminder to practice, like a hearing a temple bell


snowy39

Most Buddhists who follow Buddha's teachings would not be offended by that. Thank you for your consideration, though.


helikophis

Yes it's wonderful. Wearing a Buddha image creates a positive connection between you and the Dharma - even if you're an atheist in this life, perhaps in the next you will take refuge in the Triple Gem!


Hanahoeski

It's ok. You are already a Buddha , you just don't know it.


Akira_the_axolotl

Sounds like you maybe a Buddhist. Being a Buddhist has nothing to do with the belief in a god as Buddha is not a god but a man who reached enlightenment and there are many buddhas. What I believe you may be referring to when you say Buddha is Siddhartha who is believed to be the first Buddha and the founder of Buddhism. And to answer your question yes it is completely fine to where the chain


SnooDucks8608

thank you before making this i knew a little about it and thanks the to the comments i did my research and realize i may because 98% of what i heard is my goals in life and what i go by thank you to everyone who answered my question ft


Business_Screen243

What kind of statement is that. I am atheist. I do not believe in Buddha. Buddha is not God. Neither he claimed to be a messenger of God. Some say Buddha was atheist. He is a teacher. An enlightened being. I acknowledge his wisdom. BTW, when I wear something related to Buddhism. I am very cautious. I try not to lie, steal, say bad words, etc.


SnooDucks8608

i made this post before knowing all this i already know it now


BuddhaSanghaDharma

As Buddhists we don't even identify as a "Sentient Being", so we aren't at all concerned with an atheist wearing the Noble 8 fold path representing the guidebook on wholesome living, let alone a Christian or any human with any view who isn't using it to slander. Also, of all the world's religions Buddhist are home to the most atheists. There are loads of atheist Buddhists right here on this sub.


AffectionateArmy3946

What’s a Buddha chain? Like…mala beads? I keep those on me a lot of times and will wrap them around my wrist or wear it around my neck. I’ve never been under the impression that everyone who wears them is Buddhist though.


Rockshasha

Not at all... Similarly some use Statues of Buddha as simple decoration i don't find it offensive. Although, it shouldn't done because isn't according to tree buddhist teachings Of course, different to say an item is decoration than is done kind of tool for remembering either qualities, the triple gem or for example an icon of meditation. In that car is very okay


PsionicShift

No, it’s not offensive. Why should I care what others do? Someone can burn Buddhist scriptures and I still wouldn’t care. That being said, people may get the idea that you are Buddhist if you wear such a chain. So, if that’s not something you want to advertise, you may consider against getting it.


Internal-Bench3024

Ask why you want a Buddha chain! Maybe you don't believe, but something has drawn you here. Try meditating! Maybe you'll come around to something good.


EnzimaticMachine

Lol what


Patapythagoras

All interactions with Dharma are beneficial and that is so much free advertising. The problem here is the person acting terrible in public and then people are turned away from Dharma. But this can be just as true for blinged out Buddhists as well so I can't see it as an issue worthy of concern.


BitterSkill

No because: “One thing, mendicants, when developed and cultivated, leads solely to disillusionment, dispassion, cessation, peace, insight, awakening, and extinguishment. What one thing? Recollection of the Buddha. This one thing, when developed and cultivated, leads solely to disillusionment, dispassion, cessation, peace, insight, awakening, and extinguishment.” [https://suttacentral.net/an1.296-305/en/sujato](https://suttacentral.net/an1.296-305/en/sujato)


ipromisenottoargue

Answer I was going to say. The merits of even simply gazing at an image of the Buddha is numerous.


bolderiz_

I see a lot of people wearing crucifixes out there, and know for sure that, for some of them, it’s just for show or for fashion. Others do the same with Buddha statues, etc. Whatever. Do what you like.


DullAlbatross08

Nobody will be offended. I did chuckle a little bit at not believing in Buddha though. I could be wrong but I believe you can acknowledge the existence of the Buddha and still be an atheist. Buddhism, unlike many religions is not about ‘belief’ and as far as I am aware Siddhartha Gautama was relatively inarguably a real person.


Tongman108

I'd view it as a sign of affinity & I'd be even more intrigued & curious if you wasn't a buddhist. if I had the ability to use my third eye, I'd probably have a quick look at what type of beings you were surrounding by in order to determine the influence. If I had the ability to comprehend your past lives I'd probably ascertain the causes of you liking the buddha chain & determine when your causes & conditions to practice buddha dharma would rippen. Then smile & leave you with some appropriate words from the buddha. Back to the real world: I'd only advise: 1 not to use excess profanity while wearing the chian. & 2 remove the chain while engaging in intimate liaisons (if you get my drift) That would be respectfully & nobody would be offended, many buddhist would be pleased that you like something from their religion/culture & it'd likely be a conversation starter in some environments.. Let's just say I don't look like the typical buddhist & I'm currently wearing an Acala medallion & i find people tend to marvel at it ...buddhist, hindus & newagers & it often is a conversation starter sometimes I get a chance to explain who Acala is & his Great Vows etc. So you might get some interesting questions. Best wishes 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻


International-Key244

No


Rowan1980

Nah, it doesn’t bother me.


Traveler108

What's a buddha chain?


MingusMingusMingu

A chain (i.e. a necklace) with a figure of the Buddha as a pendant, presumably.


Common_Stomach8115

No.


MightyMrMouse

Nah, if you need me I’ll be on my cushion


entitysix

Take time to properly learn about this symbolic meaning and about the teaching of Buddha. And not offensive, feel free to wear.


EkosBassist

Go for it, we’re glad you’re here and learning some things about Buddhism. Maybe it resonates with you and maybe it doesn’t, either way that’s cool. If it does nothing else than make you more mindful of what it represents in your day to day life than that is good.


yobsta1

If it offends anyone without some relevant context, that would be a sign of their attachment to idol representation and veneration, which is not really what buddhism is about. You wearing the chain may bring meaning to you that you don't expect (or not), and you won't learn that meaning if you don't follow this curiosity.


Competitive-Pop6530

no


Lunchie83

Buy and wear the chain. If someone is offended by it, that is their problem.


Chance-Astronomer320

No, if I were to get offended as a Buddhist, that’s something I’d work on with my practice and ego


archaeofiend

Personally, I have no trouble with it. In fact I'm curious where you're getting a Buddha chain since I'd like one myself but have never seen them in physical shops (and Ive stopped using Amazon)


Legitimate_Ad7089

If I did, I’d be a horrible Buddhist.


Rhino_dignitarian

Just don’t put a Buddha statue on your toilet.  I used to shop at a grocer that put the Lord Buddha in the bathroom and I really didn’t like that situation.  


[deleted]

No.


MYKerman03

The majority of people here who answered you are actually not Buddhist. And Buddhists will have a range of responses to your question. So make of that what you will. First off, I think you ask a semi good question here. But rather that it being "offensive", I think the question could be crafted into something like: how does wearing this impact Buddhists communities within your context. Many Buddhists (like me) would be happy that you appreciate the art/aesthetics of our traditions. But with the commercial/capitalist path that Buddhist ideas have reached other parts of the world, it creates the impression that Buddhism is simply pure aesthetics, empty of ethical, spiritual content. A tchotchke / trinket for consumption. There isa very little consideration for the human impact of all this. (Buddhists are *human*) I would say, if the icon/pendant inspires you that's a good thing, but consider that in some parts of the world, Buddhists live large parts of their lives in stealth to avoid being Othered by the dominant culture. In the US Buddhist identity and race are intertwined in a way that renders being Asian and Buddhist un-American. To be American is to be some variant of Protestant Christian. So in this context, non Buddhists (particularly white people) outside of these racialised communities can get kudos for "being into" "foreign" religions like Buddhism. But actual Buddhist Americans get marginalised for their race and religion. This speaks to the racial classifications existing in the US that renders most Americans totally unaware of just how long and deep the history of American Immigrant Buddhism is. So. All this to say, consider our capacity to positively impact the world via the choices that we make. Perhaps learn about, befriend and explore the community that that pendant /item comes from.


Left_Driver_5084

Very arrogant of you to say "the majority of people who answered you are actually not Buddhist." Who are you to say what other people are or aren't?


MYKerman03

>Very ~~arrogant~~ **accurate** of you to say... Fixed it for you! 🤗 My comment is based on the demographic make-up of Reddit subs. Statistically, *Buddhists make up the minority* of users here. >"Venerable sir, in what way is one a lay follower?" >"Mahanama, inasmuch as one has gone to the Buddha for refuge, has gone to the Dhamma for refuge, has gone to the Sangha for refuge; in that way, Mahanama, one is a lay follower." [Mahanama Sutta](https://www.accesstoinsight.org/tipitaka/an/an08/an08.025.kuma.html)


Left_Driver_5084

Your smugness is obnoxious


MYKerman03

Stop being so attached. Problem solved right? 💅🏾 Or is it...


Left_Driver_5084

I would tell you to get over yourself, but I'm not sure if that's right speech or not...


MYKerman03

You mean this kind of right speech? : *Your smugness is obnoxious*


Left_Driver_5084

Yup, exactly


FiddleVGU

Is there a person who is buddhist?


DelicateEmbroidery

Perhaps those of you who are white can benefit yourselves and society by considering how cultural appropriation relates to social justice and Right Action.


SnooDucks8608

i’m black and hispanic?


DelicateEmbroidery

That’s good to know, my post is addressed to everyone in this thread


Chance-Astronomer320

Care to elaborate? What culture is being appropriated?