Jesus and Buddha Parallel Sayings by Marcus Borg
- John Scoble
- Nov 6, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Book Review
This is a book which compares the parallel sayings of Jesus and Buddha.
The juxtaposition of their teaching makes clear that Jesus and Buddha shared many characteristics (such as mystic, tradition reformer, wisdom teacher). It is also clear that they used similar teaching methods and professed many similar truths.
Borg mentions the speculation that Jesus may have been exposed to Buddhist teachings during his unreported adult years, but stresses that there is no historical evidence of this. He concludes that both were divinely inspired and arrived at their wisdom independently from their respective traditions.
The book is a quick read. It is 150 pages. The majority of these simply compares without commentary a single teaching of Jesus with the parallel teaching of Buddha.
FAQs: Jesus and Buddha: Parallel Sayings
What similarities does Marcus Borg highlight between Jesus’ and Buddha’s teachings?
Borg points out over 100 analogous sayings in the teachings of Jesus and the Buddha - on things like compassion, nonviolence, generosity, and inner life. For example: “Do to others as you would have them do to you” (Jesus) aligns with “Consider others as yourself” (Buddha, Dhammapada 10.1). Borg does not claim borrowing or direct influence, but proposes that such parallels invite meditation and interfaith reflection. (Source: “New Book Looks At Parallel Sayings of Jesus, Buddha”, Oregon State U. news, 2009)
Does Borg argue that Jesus knew about Buddha’s teachings?
Not exactly. Borg and scholars acknowledge that Jesus lived about 500 years after the Buddha, in vastly different cultural and geographical settings. While some theories propose that Buddhist ideas may have filtered westwards via trade routes, Borg's primary aim is not to establish historical borrowing. Instead he wants readers to reflect on how similar spiritual wisdom can arise in different cultures. (Source: OSU news release; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
Why do these parallels matter for people in spiritual or religious life today?
Because they offer an expanded vision of what sacred truths can look like. When we see different traditions saying similar things - loving enemies, generosity, compassion - it suggests a deeper ethical resonance common to human spiritual experience. For seekers, this can foster humility, curiosity, and respect for other paths. It may encourage believers to deepen their own faith by listening and learning outside their tradition.
What differences between Jesus and Buddha does Borg or related scholarship note?
While many teachings align, there are also significant differences: Jesus’ ministry had strong prophetic elements directed at social and political injustice; Buddha’s teachings often focus more on inner liberation, ending suffering through personal transformation. Christianity places emphasis on the incarnation, resurrection, relationship with God; Buddhism emphasizes the path of enlightenment, non-self, impermanence. Recognizing these differences helps avoid oversimplifying what makes each tradition unique. (Source: Oregon State University article; A St Lucia Spirituality perspective)
How can I use these parallels to enrich my spiritual practice?
Start by reading or meditating on paired sayings from both traditions, noticing what speaks to your heart.
Practice compassion, generosity, forgiveness, as both Jesus and Buddha teach, letting these actions reshape your inner life.
Engage with interfaith dialogue or spiritual reflection groups to see how others live out these teachings. Doing so often increases empathy, expands your moral imagination, and deepens spiritual trust. Studies of interfaith engagement show that such dialogue often reduces prejudice and boosts wellbeing and social harmony.
At St Lucia Spirituality we believe the journey is richer when it’s shared. If you’re seeking a place to explore questions, practice mindfulness, or simply belong to an inclusive spiritual community, we invite you to join us. From online discussion groups and meditation gatherings to our growing library of resources, there’s space here for every seeker. Step into the conversation, connect with others, and discover how community can nurture your spiritual growth.
About the Author - John Scoble
John's journey began in the heart of a traditional Roman Catholic family in Sydney, where he was raised with steadfast faith and reverence. Now residing in the serene surroundings of St Lucia, Brisbane, alongside his beloved wife, John finds solace and inspiration in the tranquil rhythms of life. With four adult children and a cherished grandchild also calling Brisbane home, John's family is his anchor, providing love, support, and a sense of belonging.
While spirituality has always been a cornerstone of his life, it was three transformative events in 2012, including a sacred pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, that ignited a profound shift in John's spiritual trajectory. Embracing retirement as an opportunity for deeper exploration, John immersed himself in extensive reading and soulful reflection.
Over the course of a decade, this journey of self-discovery has led John to reevaluate and transcend many of his traditional beliefs, embracing instead the timeless wisdom and cosmic perspective inherent in Christianity. Influenced by luminaries such as St. Francis of Assisi, St. Teresa of Avila, and Richard Rohr, John's spiritual evolution has been marked by a deepening resonance with the essential truths of his faith and a profound connection to the divine unfolding within and around him.
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