Buddhist faith centres on the Buddha who is revered, not as a god, but as an example of a way of life.  Buddhists believe in re-incarnation and so accept responsibility for their actions. It is therefore important that the individual behaves properly. This is a way of thinking conducive to good conduct and a life of moderation for oneself coupled with a concerned compassion for and toleration of others. The Buddha – a word which means Enlightened – is the revered teacher and exemplar of this way of life. There is no belief in a personal God.

Religion

There are three different schools of Buddhism in Britain, each with different traditions. The fundamental precepts are commonly held, this enables Buddhists to pray together and be ministered to by monks of any school or tradition. Out of courtesy, ask the patient or his/her family or friends what they might require.

Special Occasions

The Buddha was born, achieved enlightenment and died on nights of the full moon in the period we now call the month of May. As a mark of respect all full moon days are holy days. VESAK – celebrated on the full moon of May is the major holy day.

Diet

Many Buddhists are vegetarian, although the eating of meat or fish is not forbidden. The vegetarian position is derived from the Buddhist belief that all life is precious.

Abortion

Buddhist tradition condemns abortion and active euthanasia.

Care of the Dying

Buddhism makes no rules regarding the receipt and giving of blood, tissue or organs. It is a matter of personal choice. Buddhists like to be fully informed about their imminent death to enable them to make preparation. Buddhists wish to approach death in as clear and conscious state of mind as possible. They would prefer to have a monk with them when death is near but this is not necessarily required. A lay person to pray with and to help find calm will suffice. Should a monk be in attendance then some chanting is likely to take place and therefore a degree of privacy will be appreciated. Peace and quiet for meditation and visits from other Buddhists will be appreciated.

Death

If other Buddhists are not in attendance, then a Buddhist minister should be informed of the death as soon as possible. Routine Last Offices are appropriate.

Post mortem, organ transplantation

Cremation is preferred.
There is unlikely to be any objections to post mortem or organ transplants.