Since the founding of morality, people have always lived their lives according to a code. A code that suggests what is right and what is wrong. This code has been passed down in countless ways, from mother to son, father to daughter, and brother to sister. Each different, but still represents the right idea and the wrong idea. They form the foundation of a person's position on a given issue. Each of the world's religions has its own set of moral teachings. They are an important aspect of each religion because they define the different moral values upheld by it. Judaism and Buddhism are two of many religions that share generally similar moral teachings on a number of moral issues, including; Abortion, homosexuality and life after death. Although they have subtle differences, the moral teachings on abortion, homosexuality, and life after death in Judaism and Buddhism are fundamentally the same. Throughout Judaism it is morally taught that abortion is not prohibited, but should only be considered in serious conditions. When considering an abortion, Jewish law requires that the mother consult and discuss with a rabbi, because each case should be resolved on its own terms (Judaism, Abortion par. 2). Abortion in Judaism is considered acceptable in some circumstances, such as for the sake of the child and for the protection of the mother. It is believed that if a child will suffer due to a disability, or if the mother is not in a suitable condition to raise the child, abortion is morally acceptable, due to the long-term suffering. In Buddhism, abortion is believed to be morally wrong for intentionally taking a life. However, generally similar to Judaism, Buddhists believe that abortion is only acceptable in certain circumstances. ...... middle of paper ......ame, the moral values upheld and taught by these two religions are mostly similar in a general sense. When considering abortion in both Judaism and Buddhism, it is only believed in appropriate circumstances. Homosexual acts in Buddhism are seen as sexual misconduct and in Judaism as a sin. However, from both Buddhist and Jewish perspectives, homosexuality is seen as more or less acceptable, as long as it is not carried out sexually. In Buddhism it is thought that life after death is a time in which reincarnation occurs until the end of Samsara and the achievement of Nirvana. Just as in Judaism, reincarnation and Gehinnom occur until one has served one's purpose or relived one's sins. Exploration of both Judaism and Buddhism has made it evident that the two religions generally share the same moral teaching on the three moral issues to the point.
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