A Sermon on Charity, detail
Netherlandish (Antwerp Mannerist) Painter
(active, 1520-25)
My dear friends,
In our journey of faith and spiritual practice, we often find profound wisdom in the convergence of teachings from different traditions. The epistle of James offers us valuable insights into the nature of faith, compassion, and impartiality, which resonate deeply with Buddhist precepts. By examining these parallels, we can gain a richer understanding of how to cultivate a heart of love, mercy, and service to others.
do not claim the faith
of our Lord Jesus Christ of glory
while showing partiality.
For if a person with gold rings
and in fine clothes
comes into your assembly,
and if a poor person
in dirty clothes
also comes in,
and if you take notice of the one
wearing the fine clothes and say,
"Have a seat here in a good place, please,"
while to the one who is poor
you say, "Stand there," or, "Sit by my footstool,"
have you not made distinctions among yourselves
and become judges with evil thoughts?
- James 2:1-4
Always practice with pure impartiality
on all objects.
- Geshe Chekawa, Mind Training in Seven Points (7.10)
The admonition in James to avoid showing partiality is a clear call to embody the love and compassion that lies at the heart of the Christian faith. In Buddhist teachings, particularly those found in the lojong (mind training) texts, impartiality is equally emphasized as a crucial aspect of Bodhicitta, the awakened mind of compassion. Both traditions warn against the dangers of judgment and favoritism, urging us to see beyond external appearances and to treat all beings with equal respect and kindness. This practice not only aligns us with divine or enlightened qualities but also helps us to overcome our own egoistic tendencies.
Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith
and to be heirs of the kingdom that he has promised to those who love him?
But you have dishonored the poor person.
Is it not the rich who oppress you? Is it not they who drag you into court?
Is it not they who blaspheme the excellent name that was invoked over you?
If you really fulfill the royal law according to the scripture,
"You shall love your neighbor as yourself," you do well.
But if you show partiality, you commit sin
and are convicted by the law as transgressors.
- James 2:5-9
Speak not of the shortcomings of others.
Think not about whatever is seen in others.
- Geshe Chekawa, Mind Training in Seven Points (6.3, 6.4)
James challenges us to reflect on how we treat those who are marginalized and oppressed, highlighting the spiritual richness often found among the poor. Similarly, Buddhist teachings encourage us to refrain from focusing on the faults or external circumstances of others, urging us instead to cultivate humility and compassion. Both teachings remind us that our true spiritual practice lies not in outward displays of piety, but in our genuine care and concern for all beings, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
For the one who said, "You shall not commit adultery," also said, "You shall not murder."
Now if you do not commit adultery but if you murder, you have become a transgressor of the law.
So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty.
For judgment will be without mercy to anyone who has shown no mercy;
mercy triumphs over judgment.
- James 2:10-13
Deeply contemplate the certainty of karma....
- Tsongkhapa, The Three Principal Aspects of the Path (verse 4)
Both James and Tsongkhapa underscore the importance of understanding the moral consequences of our actions. James speaks of the law of liberty, which calls us to a higher standard of mercy and compassion, knowing that we too will be judged by the same measure we use for others. In a complementary precept, Tsongkhapa advises deep contemplation on karma, the principle that every action has a corresponding effect. These teachings from different traditions remind us that our actions, whether rooted in mercy or judgment, will ultimately shape our spiritual destiny.
Surely that faith cannot save, can it?
If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food
and one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,"
and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that?
So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.
- James 2:14-17
May I be a protector for those without one,
A guide for all travelers on the way;
May I be a bridge, a boat and a ship
For all who wish to cross.
- Shantideva, Bodhisattvacharyavatara, III(18)
James teaches that faith without works is dead, emphasizing that genuine faith must be expressed through compassionate action. This aligns closely with Shantideva's prayer to be of service to all beings, to act as a protector and guide. In both teachings, we see a call to embody our spiritual beliefs in tangible ways, serving those in need with selfless love and dedication. Faith and compassion are not mere thoughts or intentions; they are lived out through the ways we support and uplift others in their times of need.
Through these reflections, we find that the teachings of James and the corresponding Buddhist precepts guide us to a life of impartiality, compassion, and active service. They call us to transcend superficial judgments, to recognize the sacred in every being, and to live out our faith through acts of love and kindness. In this way, we walk the path of both the Bodhisattva and the follower of Christ, becoming instruments of mercy and light in the world.