Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Interreligious Perspectives on Suffering —— A Comparative Study of the Theory of Original Sin in Catholic Theology and the Theory of Avidyā in Mahayana Buddhism

Chao ZhangDurham University*

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This study will compare and discuss the Catholic view of original sin and one of the fundamental ideas of Mahayana Buddhism, Avidyā, in order to assess the development of their basic theological concepts, to compare the connections and differences between the two faiths' views of suffering, to make sense of the connections between the two religions' views on suffering, life, and philosophy, and to identify ways to promote the discussion of ecumenical beliefs and to achieve greater harmony among believers of different cultures in contemporary society. A comparative study of the theological core of the fundamental theories of Catholicism and Mahayana Buddhism on the concepts of original sin and Avidyā can adequately complement the direction of inter-religious theological thought and, at the same time, open up new horizons in the study of the ecumenical values of contemporary faiths and the development of religious thought.

Keywords: Catholic theology; Mahayana Buddhism; suffering; inter-religious theology; Avidyā
Published: November 28, 2023
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/17/20230871
Volume: CHR Vol.17
pp. 108-116
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