The Influence of Buddhism on Primitive Christianity

The Project Gutenberg eBook, The Influence of Buddhism on Primitive Christianity, by Arthur Lillie
THE INFLUENCE OF BUDDHISM ON PRIMITIVE CHRISTIANITY
By the same Author ,
BUDDHISM IN CHRISTENDOM.
The most learned, thoughtful, and thought-provoking work which has yet appeared on this momentous question.... I read the book from cover to cover with much interest. — Truth.
The present work is of the profoundest interest, and is certain to command attention in all future discussions of the subject with which it deals.... It is exceedingly ably written. — Scotsman.
The relation of Essenism to Buddhism is here dwelt upon with some fresh illustration of the probably Indian origin of the Therapeuts of Alexandria. Mr. Lillie's chapters on ritual and observances are rendered attractive by a number of interesting illustrations. — Athenæum.
Discusses the influence which Buddhism has had on Christianity. The admission that there is any relationship at all between the two will be vehemently denied by many good people, but no one can impartially and fairly study Mr. Lillie's book, examine his evidence, and give due weight to his arguments, without admitting that the connection not only exists but is an intimate one. — Evening Standard.
Also ,
THE POPULAR LIFE OF BUDDHA.
Contends that the atheistic and soulless Buddhism was drawn from the 'Great Vehicle,' which was a spurious system introduced about the time of the Christian era, whereas the 'Little Vehicle,' compiled by Asoka, contained the motto, 'Confess and believe in God.' There are a large number of passages drawn from the sacred books, which tend to prove that Mr. Lillie is right in his theory of Buddhist theology. Even Dr. Rhys Davids admits that the Cakkavati Buddha was to early Buddhists what the Messiah Logos was to early Christians. 'If this be so,' as Mr. Lillie is justified in asking, how can an atheist believe in a 'Word of God made flesh?'
Mr. Lillie thus sums up the originalities of the Buddhist movement:—Enforced vegetarianism for the whole nation; enforced abstinence from wine; abolition of slavery: the introduction of the principle of forgiveness of injuries in opposition to the lex talionis ; uncompromising antagonism to all national religious rites that were opposed to the gnosis or spiritual development of the individual; beggary, continence, and asceticism for religious teachers. — Spectator.