A Comparative Study of the Beliefs in Sacredness in Theravada Buddhism and Roman Catholic Christianity

Abstract

This research article has three objectives: 1) to study the concept of sacredness in Theravada Buddhism, 2) to study the concept of sacredness in Roman Catholic Christianity, and 3) to compare the belief in sacredness between the two traditions. This study is documentary research based on data collected from the Tipiṭaka, the Holy Bible including both the Old Testament and the New Testament, and relevant academic studies, analyzed through descriptive and comparative approaches. 1) The findings reveal that in Theravada Buddhism, sacredness is not regarded as an inherent supernatural quality, but is closely related to the law of karma, purity of mind, and the realization of truth through wisdom. It is manifested through the Triple Gem, the monastic discipline, and the practice of meditation, including samatha and vipassanā. 2) In contrast, sacredness in Roman Catholic Christianity is grounded in God as the Absolute Being, the Creator, and the source of grace, expressed through Jesus Christ, the sacraments, and the lives of the saints. Comparatively, both traditions recognize sacredness as a means of elevating human spiritual and moral life. 3) However, they differ in metaphysical foundations: Buddhism emphasizes internal processes and natural law, while Christianity emphasizes a relationship with God and divine grace. This study highlights a shared understanding of spiritual and ethical values at a universal level despite differing doctrinal foundations.