Yes, that is correct. On a shallow level, you can hold onto your previous religion's doctrine. If you wish to seriously practice Buddhism, then inevitably you must relinquish other beliefs. It would be impossible to have absolute faith in two sets of teachings. To say that one does not have to give up the original religion pertains to the social and cultural aspects of that religion. But, even if one gives up the beliefs of the other religion, it does not mean that one is then opposed to that faith.

STUDENT:

Isn't it possible to go one step beyond this, and say it is all in the mind? They are just beliefs and concepts and therefore I can believe anything I want to? I can even hold contradictory beliefs in my mind at the same time?

SHIH-FU: