Humanistic Buddhism is a modern interpretation of traditional Buddhism that emphasizes the importance of compassion and its relevance in today's world. It is a movement that seeks to make Buddhist teachings more accessible and applicable to the challenges and needs of contemporary society.

At its core, Humanistic Buddhism is rooted in the belief that all beings possess the potential for enlightenment and that the purpose of life is to cultivate this potential. However, it differs from traditional Buddhism in its approach and emphasis on compassion. While traditional Buddhism focuses on individual enlightenment and liberation from suffering, Humanistic Buddhism places equal emphasis on the well-being and happiness of others.

One of the key principles of Humanistic Buddhism is the concept of "engaged Buddhism," which encourages practitioners to actively engage in the world and use Buddhist teachings to address social and environmental issues. This is in contrast to the traditional Buddhist view of detachment and renunciation of worldly concerns.

Another important aspect of Humanistic Buddhism is its emphasis on the here and now. While traditional Buddhism places a strong emphasis on the afterlife and the cycle of rebirth, Humanistic Buddhism focuses on living in the present moment and making the most of our current existence. This means using Buddhist teachings to cultivate inner peace, wisdom, and compassion in order to create a better world for ourselves and others.

In terms of practice, Humanistic Buddhism also differs from traditional Buddhism. While traditional Buddhism places a strong emphasis on meditation and ritual, Humanistic Buddhism encourages a more active and engaged approach to spiritual practice. This may include community service, social activism, and other forms of compassionate action.

Overall, the main difference between Humanistic Buddhism and traditional Buddhism is its focus on compassion and its relevance in modern times. Humanistic Buddhism seeks to bridge the gap between ancient teachings and contemporary issues, making Buddhism more accessible and applicable to the challenges of today's world. By emphasizing compassion and engaged action, Humanistic Buddhism offers a path to personal and societal transformation, making it a relevant and meaningful practice for people from all walks of life.