The Great Controversy in the Buddhist World: A Suggestion for an Adventist Approach Towards Buddhism

Abstract

The Buddhist temples of Bangkok, as well as many other public places and buildings, offer a diversity of religious symbols that open the door to the heart of Thai Buddhists. Buddha's victory over Mara (the evil force in Buddhism), Naga (a snake deity), Yaksha (a guard of the mountain of the gods), and the elephant give comfort to the common Buddhist that finds himself in the perpetual struggle between good and evil—as nicely displayed in the centerpiece of Thailand's new airport. However, he is left alone in the daily effort to fulfill good deeds. This study suggests that the unique Adventist focus upon the Great Controversy and its final resolution in Christ's sacrifice could, better than other doctrines, bridge the gap between the delivering gospel of Jesus, and the works-focused Buddhist believer.

Key Words: Theravada Buddhism, Adventist mission, Great Controversy, Buddhist temples, Buddhist symbols, contextualization