When discussing what Buddhism offers, we may reflect on the principles praised in the verses:
"It points the way to relieve suffering, to bring happiness and tranquility, and to guide toward Nirvana, a state free from sorrow, separation, and danger. For what purpose?"
"To eliminate coarse minds and sinful tendencies of men and women, allowing beings to rely on it, abandon evil, and cultivate virtue."
Alternatively, we may consider the verse extolling the Dhamma:
"Dhamma is the benefactor, the source of good and moral guidance, akin to the brilliant lamp of wisdom of the enlightened teacher. Its benefit is to illuminate beings' nature and clarify the mind."
Thus, Dhamma serves as a guide for life, revealing both what is beneficial and what is not, enabling individuals to learn, practice, and apply it in their occupations, duties, and daily lives. This brings happiness at various levels. The Buddha described three levels of benefits that can be derived from Buddhism: benefits in the present life, benefits in future lives, and ultimate liberation.
The key issue to understand is that what Buddhism offers is given within the framework of its teachings. It provides guidance to promote well-being, happiness, and support for humanity by teaching and advising. The essence of "religion" is "teaching." What Buddhism offers is guidance for living a meaningful life, creating benefits for individuals, families, society, the nation, and ultimately the entire world.
The benefits can be summarized into three levels, as described in Buddhist teachings:
Understanding the nature of phenomena—knowing what is beneficial and what is harmful.
Recognizing the harm in evil and striving to alleviate, suppress, abandon, and overcome it.
Setting a goal for progress toward a higher state, practicing according to the principles and methods to achieve the intended benefit.
Source: "What Buddhism Offers" by Phra Rajadhammadhith (Rabhub Thitayanano), Wat Bowonniwet Vihara.
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