Becoming Buddhist: is it Necessary?

Is it really necessary to become Buddhist if we agree with the Buddhist dharma and want to practice? We will look at the Western (and Vedic) notion of religious identity and belonging before turning to the example of early Buddhism. How did people approach "becoming Buddhist" back then? What might the dharma itself have to say about this?

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✅ Videos mentioned:

How to Become a Buddhist:    • How to Become a Buddhist  
The Buddha's Competitors:    • The Buddha's Competitors: Unearthing ...  
Why Buddhism Isn't a Religion:    • Why Buddhism Isn't a Religion  

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