Do Buddhists Worship Lord Vishnu?

The question of whether Buddhists worship Lord Vishnu or not is often a topic of debate and confusion. In Angkor Wat, a temple originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, one can observe how the practice has evolved over time. Even after the temple's adaptation for Buddhist use, locals still worship an image of Vishnu, indicating a blend of religious practices.

The Historical Context at Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat, one of the most iconic temples in Cambodia, has a rich history that reflects the religious transformations it has undergone. Initially, it served as a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu during the Khmer Empire. However, when it was converted to a Buddhist site, the original image of Vishnu was moved from the sanctum to a corridor near the main entrance, yet it retained its significance in the eyes of the faithful.

According to Sanjeev Sanyal's work The Ocean of Churn, merchants, temples, and rice, it is mentioned that Buddhists accept the existence of Lord Vishnu. This acceptance can be seen in texts such as the Digha Nikaya. Mahasamaya Sutta 20.14, where the term 'Venhu Pali' form of Vishnu is explicitly mentioned.

Non-Worship of Vishnu in Buddhist Thought

Contrasting with these implications, there is a strong belief within Buddhist communities that Buddhists do not worship Lord Vishnu. In Buddhist philosophy, which revolves around the path to enlightenment and the cessation of suffering, the concept of god and worship are not at the core. Instead, the emphasis is on the qualities and actions of Buddha, as seen in the phrase Buddham sharanam gacchami, meaning 'I take refuge in the Buddha.'

Buddhism focuses on meditation, ethical practice, and the Four Noble Truths, rather than on worship. The idea of taking refuge in the Buddha implies finding guidance and inspiration from the example and teachings of the Buddha, rather than a deity.

Debunking Misconceptions

The belief that Buddhists worship Lord Vishnu or Buddha as a god is often a misconception. Buddha, who is the founder of Buddhism, is not considered a god but a human being who achieved enlightenment through his own efforts. His teachings and path to enlightenment are the central focus of Buddhist practice.

Buddhists understand that Buddha was a Chakravartin (a ruler with righteous conquests) and an Ariya Sangha (Noble Order) that he led. The concept of a supreme being or god is not part of Buddhist philosophy. The stories and anecdotes that might appear to suggest a different view are often cultural adaptations or misunderstandings of the deeper spiritual teachings.

Conclusion

The question of whether Buddhists worship Lord Vishnu or not can be answered by understanding the historical context at Angkor Wat and thetrue meaning of Buddhist practice. While there is an acceptance of deities within certain Buddhist texts, the core of Buddhist practice lies in the pursuit of wisdom, compassion, and liberation from suffering, rather than worship.

It is essential to approach these topics with an open mind and a desire to understand the complexities of different religious traditions. Buddhism, with its rich history and diverse interpretations, offers a profound path to spiritual enlightenment that does not centre around the worship of any god.