USA - Peace ‘Begins from Within,’ Says Buddhist Monk

The Buddhist monk who led a “Walk for Peace” from Texas to the nation’s capital said he believes peace can be achieved even in a world filled with conflict, citing the overwhelming displays of public support for his walk as a source of hope for future change.

“Peace always begins from within ourself. It’s not the world peace out there,” the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara said in an exclusive interview with CBS News. “No one can change this world, but together, all people and all the venerable monks are walking together on this journey. … We can make a difference.”

-www.cbsnews.com, 11 February 2026

Commentary: Pew Research Center states, “The number of Buddhists around the world is expected to increase between 2010 and 2030, rising from 488 million to about 511 million.”

In the Western world, people group Buddha with yoga and vice versa. But yoga originated with the Hindu religion.

A Google search states: “The purpose of yoga is to unite the mind, body, and spirit to achieve overall wellness, mental clarity, and ultimately liberation.”

So the question: What is liberation? Another search reveals, “Liberation in yoga, known as Moksha and Kaivalya is the ultimate spiritual goal of breaking free from the cycle of suffering, ego, and illusion.” Buddhism’s goal is to achieve Nirvana. Here Wikipedia explains, “Nirvana or nibbana is the extinguishing of the passions.” In plain words, non-existence.

What does the Bible say? “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). Two chapters further, we read: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10b). Then chapter 14, verse 27 states: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”