A Buddhist reflection on teachings of Jesus

By The XIV Dalai Lama

Throughout my life, i have held deep respect for all major religious traditions. Among them, Christianity occupies a special place – not because it is similar to Buddhism in doctrine, but because of radiant love that shines through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. When i read gospels or encounter sincere Christian practitioners, i recognise the same compassion that lies at the very heart of Buddhism.
I do not write as a Christian scholar, but as a simple Buddhist monk, moved by the goodness i see in others. When i reflect upon Jesus’ teachings, i am reminded of what i call the ‘good heart’ – a sincere wish for the happiness and well-being of others. This quality transcends religion, culture, and nationality. It is, i believe, the essence of our shared humanity.

Jesus embodied this good heart not only through his words, but in how he lived. His love reached out to the poor, sick, outcast – even to those who persecuted him. In Buddhism, we speak of bodhicitta – the awakened mind that seeks enlightenment for the sake of all beings. In Jesus, i see that same selfless impulse: a boundless compassion not limited by tribe or belief.

At the heart of gospels lies compassion. When Jesus says, “Love your neighbour as yourself,” it echoes the Buddhist practice of cherishing others more than oneself. The words may differ, but the spirit is remarkably similar.

What moves me most is not the language, but the integrity behind it. Jesus taught with what i would describe as fierce tenderness. He confronted injustice yet never abandoned love. He healed, forgave, and transformed through compassion – not through fear or punishment. This is the good heart in action.

In interfaith dialogue, we often become entangled in theological differences about God, soul, or afterlife. These are important within each tradition, but they need not become obstacles. In fact, such differences can enrich our understanding of the essential human questions: How should we live? How can we reduce suffering? What does it mean to love?

Religion should serve as a guide, not acause of division. All great spiritual traditions aim to make us better human beings, more kind, wise, and compassionate. When someone truly embodies humility, forgiveness, and love –regardless of their faith, they honour the highest potential of any religion.

In today’s world, where material progress often outpaces moral growth, teachings of Jesus remain deeply relevant. His emphasis on serving the poor, turning the other cheek, and placing love above law offers apowerful counterbalance to our culture of self-interest. As a Buddhist, i draw deep inspiration from these ideals.

Some may ask how a Buddhist can revere Jesus. The answer is simple: i see him as a great spiritual master, a bodhisattva , one who dedicates his life to others. Our doctrines may differ, but the fruits of his life – acts of love and service – are universally admirable.

This does not mean we should blur the lines between religions. Diversity of faith is like a garden of many flowers – each with its own colour and fragrance. The goal is not to make them the same, but to appreciate each for what it offers. For me, reading Jesus’ teachings is like walking a different garden path that leads towards the same mountain peak of spiritual awakening.

I often advise people not to change religions lightly. It is usually wiser to deepen one’s understanding of the tradition one was born into. But we must also learn from others. Interfaith dialogue reduces fear, fosters respect, and builds bridges of shared humanity…

(As told to Rajiv Mehrotra)

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