buddhist beliefs

Marriage

-Marriage is not a religious duty but a social contract

-Marriage should reduce suffering

-Aim for harmony and compassion

Sexual Relationships

-Acceptable if it avoids harm and exploitation

-Third precept: Avoid misconduct

-Sexual desire can cause attachment

Cohabitation

-Living together is acceptable

-No rule against it

-Ethical intention matters more than ceremony

Homosexuality

-Same sex relationships are fully accepted

-No Buddhists scripture condemns homosexuality

-Precepts apply equally to all

Contraception

-Allowed because it prevents suffering

-Intention not to harm

-Precept against taking life applies after conception

Families

-Families are important for teaching ethics

-Parents should model compassion

-Children should honour parents

Gender Equality

-Men and women are spiritually equal

-Enlightenment is equal to all

-Buddha supported women joining the Sangha