1. Replying to a question about Buddha

    Guest (3): Buddha taught very similar things to what the Gita taught also, didn't he? Are there agreeances there, agreement in certain places what Buddha taught and what the Gita teaches?

    Prabhupada: Do you follow this Buddha?

    Guest (3): Uh, no.

    Prabhupada: You simply talk of him? You practice Buddha if you appreciate him. You give up everything like Buddha and meditate. But that you will not do. Then what is the talking of, useless talking about this? Do something. Either you believe Buddha or Jesus Christ or Krsna. Do something. Don't talk simply. Lord Buddha is very nice. He gave up his kingdom in youthful life. He was prince. He thought, "It is all nonsense. Let me meditate." Do like that. That is the disease. We won't do anything. We talk much of this, that, this, that. Do anything, but do it perfectly. "Jack of all trade, master of none." That is not good. Be master of something. It doesn't differ. Either you follow Lord Jesus Christ or Lord Buddha or Krsna, it doesn't matter much. But do it perfectly. That is our request.

    (Conversation — May 10, 1969, Columbus)

    On 10 May 2017 many Buddhists will observe Buddha Purnima, the celebration of the birth, enlightenment and death of Gautama Buddha.