The Strangers to the World: attitudes on solitude and compassion in Orthodox and Buddhist monasteries

A qualitative analysis of an Eastern Orthodox convent in Romania and a Buddhist monastery in Scotland reveals that nuns and monks perceive solitude and compassion in similar ways, despite the geographical and doctrinal differences between the two traditions. The research shows how these concepts are transposed into their daily lives, suggesting that monasticism serves as a bridge between the two faiths.

Study at a glance

Abstract

In the last decades, research has focused increasingly upon differences and similarities between Buddhism and Christianity. The geographical distance and different views on tradition, culture, spirituality and philosophy are often understood as dissociative elements. However, there are various characteristics bringing them closer. We explore these similarities with a particular focus on monasticism. By means of a qualitative analysis, we look at an Eastern Orthodox convent in Romania and a Buddhist monastery in Scotland. The research is meant to reveal the manner in which nuns and monks perceive solitude and compassion, and how these concepts are transposed in their daily lives.