There doesn't seem to be a religion in 'Game of Thrones' that's totally peaceful... we haven't seen any Buddhists.

In this quote, Carice van Houten, the Dutch actress known for her role as Melisandre in Game of Thrones, humorously points out the absence of a truly peaceful religion in the complex, violent world of the series. She notes that while several faiths are depicted throughout the show, none of them are portrayed as entirely peaceful, highlighting the brutal and often conflict-driven nature of the fictional universe. By mentioning the lack of Buddhists, van Houten draws attention to the contrast between the war-driven religions in the show and the peaceful, non-violent principles traditionally associated with Buddhism.

Van Houten’s comment serves as a subtle critique of the show’s portrayal of religion and its role in power struggles. In Game of Thrones, religious faiths often contribute to conflict, manipulation, and control rather than peace and harmony. The portrayal of religious figures like the High Sparrow or the Lord of Light suggests that faith in the world of Westeros tends to be tied to power and violence, rather than to any notions of universal love or non-violence that one might associate with a religion like Buddhism.

The reference to Buddhism is particularly interesting because Buddhism is often recognized for its emphasis on peace, compassion, and detachment from worldly desires. By pointing out the absence of such a religion, van Houten is not only making a playful observation but also commenting on how Game of Thrones uses religion as a tool for narrative tension rather than as a vehicle for spiritual growth or harmony. This adds another layer to the show’s critique of human nature and the ways in which individuals often exploit faith for personal gain.

Ultimately, van Houten’s quote highlights the stark contrast between the world of Westeros, where religion often fuels war and manipulation, and the ideals of peace and non-violence typically associated with religions like Buddhism. It’s a lighthearted but insightful observation on how Game of Thrones uses religion to explore themes of power, violence, and human flaws.