"From a monk's perspective, there are two thoughts, the first being that he shouldn't have done that because it spoils the image of Buddhism."

Besides attending a Buddhist retreat to see what Tiger Woods might be doing in his spare time, Stephanie Wei, writing for ESPN.com, considers Buddhism as it relates to on course outbursts.

Would a Buddhist consider Woods' outburst to be against the religion's teachings? Not necessarily.

"People shouldn't be too harsh on [Woods]," said the Venerable Dhammadipa Fa Yao, the abbot -- or spiritual leader -- of Chuang Yen Monastery in Carmel, N.Y. "If he wants to yell, it's his way of expressing his emotions. It doesn't mean he's not Buddhist. As a human, we can't expect him to be perfect.

"From a monk's perspective, there are two thoughts, the first being that he shouldn't have done that because it spoils the image of Buddhism. Another would say everyone has their own karma. He should do as they like as long as it doesn't intentionally hurt anyone else."

Another interpretation? Live and learn.

"Everybody makes mistakes, but it's how we react to them," Bradley added. "Buddhism leaves you with ways to reflect on them. When the outcome of our actions isn't ideal, we'll try to act differently the next time. It's not a good idea to have temper tantrums. But it's not a moralistic thing; it's just a piece of advice."