Studies of ReligionBuddhism

SourcesStudies of Religion. Lovat, McGrath, Fletcher, Follers. Thomson Social Science Press 2006Living Religion, Third Edition. Morrissey, Mudge, Taylor, Bailey & Rule. Pearson Longman 2005Studies of Religion, Preliminary. Coleman. Spotlight Science Press 2006

OriginsBuddha - Gautama, raised a Hindu

- rejected his wealthy upbringing & fled to a Hindu monasteryOriginal Spirit & Inspiration of Buddhism

- rejection of wealth- rejection of traditional religion (reaction to authority of Hinduism)

Buddha’s rejection of the caste system in Hinduism:1. New vision – no inequality based on heredity

- salvation attained by anyone2. Simple religion, personal enlightenment not achieved through ritual, but through intense meditation and

hard work3. Rejected idea for theological speculation, maintained ‘noble silence’4. Rejection of Hindu belief in reincarnation (caste inequalities). Buddhism – self effort the key to Nirvana5. Gods not seen as necessary. Too concerned with supernatural a distraction from achieving personal

happiness.

Enlightenment At 29 left home, disillusioned with his life Became an expert in certain meditation practices, studied most philosophies, still remained frustrated at

lack of success in overcoming self doubt and experiencing nirvana (in Hinduism) Search for a deeper happiness Meditating under the Bodhi tree (tree of wisdom & enlightenment) about suffering & evil, sensed

imminent enlightenment (within) or psychological relief & detachment from all desires Avoided temptation(evil), Saw all that was to be seen & way to salvation, while under the Bodhi tree Buddha means “I am awake”, Budh mean “to awake and to know” Began Sangha (monastic brotherhood) converted first disciples at Benares, five monks he had studies with

previously Preached famous sermon ’The Turning of the Wheel of the Law’ – introduced the Four Noble Truths &

important teaching of no-self (doctrinal foundation-Buddhist dhamma) and The Eightfold Path

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TerminologyWord DefinitionPrecepts

Dhamma

Four Noble Truths

The Eightfold Path

Enlightenment

Dukkha

Dukka

Tanha

Puja

Karma

The Three Jewels

Samsara

Acariya teacher.Anatta the absence of self and soul.Anicca the Buddhist doctrine of transitoriness, impermanence or constant change.Aryan name of tribes of nomadic pastoral people who entered into north-western India

around 1600BCE.Bhikkhu a Buddhist monk.

Bhikkhuni a Buddhist nun.Bodhi tree the tree of wisdom and enlightenment.

Bodhisattva an aspiring or future Buddha who has vowed to save suffering beings and is practising the six perfections of generosity, patience, good conduct, energy, meditation and wisdom.

Buddha ‘The Enlightened One’. awakened oneMahayana the reformed tradition of Buddhism.Nirvana the ultimate goal of the Buddhist life.

Pali Canon sacred writings that contain stories of the foundation of Buddhism.shramanas wandering holy men who can be traced to the Indus Valley civilisation.Samanera novice monk.Sangha Buddhist community of followers.

Theravada the teachings of Buddhist elders, associated with the conservative, orthodox school.Tripitaka three baskets – three collections of the Buddhist canon.

Upasampada higher ordination.Vinaya disciple basket – contains monastic rules for the members of the Sangha.Yoga Hindu spiritual and physical practices aimed at integrating the body, mind and

spirit.2

Sangha Formation Sangha means community Doctrinal view – the ‘Conventional Shangha’ consists of the community of monks & nuns only ‘Noble Shangha’ comprises of those who have achieved one of the four stages of transcendent spiritual

wisdom (1st or four stages is the ‘Eye of Truth’) Brotherly community, the order of monks and nuns An important part of any form of Buddhism, though viewed differently in different forms of Buddhism Sangha is traditionally seen as the driving force behind Buddhism, really only as a monk/nun one can

achieve the fullness of Buddhism Great goals of Buddhism – lose oneself, become superfluous, a non-self Life of a monk/nun is geared towards this goal Theravadhin Buddhism & Vajrayana Buddhism – Sangha stands at the very centre of the religion Monks (& nuns) seen to live out the essentials of the faith in dramatic form, laity support them in their role Together the whole Buddhist community achieves enlightenment Way of Buddha – a ‘raft’ that carries the believer through life, from un-enlightenment to enlightenment, the

Sangha is ‘driver’ of the raft. This demonstrates the importance of the Sangha and the practical life of the monk & nun to the mission of

Buddhism. In Buddhist countries it is common for young men and women to spend a part of their youth in a

monastery/convent, to ‘re-charge their batteries’ as Buddha regularly did during his forty years of preaching to people about enlightenment.

In the monastery/convent, they learn the faith & practices of their religion. Most return to ordinary lives, never forget their lessons and know they can return for periods to re-charge their Buddhist batteries

Accepted anyone who wished to become disciple or to seek Dhamma

The early Councils 1 st Council held at Rajagaha/Rajgir (544 or 486/483BCE) – site of Buddha’s greatest mission Three Jewels of Buddhism – refugee in Buddha, Dhamma (doctrine) and the Sangha 1st council necessary to settle disputes about Buddha’s teachings. Settled doctrinal disputes and essential

for keeping Buddha and his teachings alive Established Vinaya Pitaka (Basket of disciplinary regulations) – monastic rules 2 nd Council at Vesali/Vaishali (443 or 386 or 383 BCE) – Buddha’s favorite monastery & where women first

admitted to the Sangha Re-charge batteries, time when original Buddhists had died out and new Buddhists had no personal

knowledge of the Buddha Discussed – Vinaya, rule & practices that defined the essence of the role of the Sangha Schisms evident Vinaya - a school of Buddhism originating in 7th-century China that emphasizes adherence to ethical principles and discipline,

particularly with regard to the ordination of monks 3 rd Council at Pataliputta/Pataliputra (308 or 250 BCE) – focus to remove the Sangha of extremely ascetic

(life of self-denial) influences that had developed. Began process of sending Buddhist monks outside of India, internationalizing the religion 4 th Council in Sri Lanka/Kashmir (94 BCE) – focus to fortify Buddhism against hostility and violence (and

destruction) form local rebels. New Vinaya (monastic rule) was establish, debates recoded in the Abhidharma 5 th Council in Mandalay (1871 CE) – inscribe Buddhist scripture onto stone, permanent record with no

further risk of misinterpretation over time 6 th Council in Myanmar (1954 CE) – time of Buddhist revival after colonial rule. Examined Buddhist

doctrine for its relevance for modern times, confirmed in original form (no changes)

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Forms of Buddhism/Schools of Buddhism/Different forms of Buddhism Theravada & Mahayana Two Buddhist Sanghas that existed after the 3rd council, both founded on the teachings of Buddha, but

difference existed.

Theravadha - 1st school Hold fast to the essentials of Buddhism – orthodox school Pali Canon belong to the school of Theravada, contains teachings of Buddha Rigorous form of Buddhism, largely for monks (arahant) & nuns ‘abstain from all kinds of evil, to accumulate all that is good to purify the mind’ Three trainings – development of ethical conduct, meditation & insight “the small raft” – immediate path to Nirvana for only a few Individual attainment of enlightenment by the monk is the focus of Theravada Lay persons role is to support the monks & nuns and to build good graces (karma) Treatment of Buddha as a God, not clearly outlined Commonly found in Sri Lanka, Burma, Thailand, Cambodia

Mahayana – 2nd school ‘the great vehicle’ – path to Nirvana for a greater number Treat Buddha as a transcendent, god-like figure, can re-enter to help them in whatever way seems

appropriate Accuses the Theravada of being preoccupied with own enlightenment, to the detriment of helping others to

enter the eight-fold path. Accused of selfishness Focus on bodhisattva, a figure modeled on the capacity to help others escape samsara (opposite of

nirvana). Bodhisattva a deity or being that has attained enlightenment worthy of nirvana but remains in the human world to help others

Lay person can achieve nirvana, through self-effort, individual forgo own striving for Nirvana to help others to get on the right path

Three fundamental themes. 1) bodhisattva 2)emptiness of all phenomena 3)all possess potential for buddhahood (become a Buddha, possessing enlightening knowledge)

To attain buddhahood, follow ten-stage path with attainment of six perfections, centered on giving of something.

bodhisattva are important cult figures for Mahayana Buddhism More communitarian & popular form of Buddhism Commonly found in Tibet, China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, most of Asia Indian culture base, rather than being a Hindu derivative Second century philosopher declared perceive objects are really no more than mental phenomena & have

no true existence Practice of koan – hearing a particular verse to provoke insight – a riddle, challenge

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Vajrayana (tantric Buddhism) – 3rd school Began around 1st century of Christianity Developed out of Mahayana Buddhism Began in India, influenced by Hindu tantric traditions, spread to China, Japan, Nepal & Tibet Many gods& divine personifications of Buddha, his thoughts & actions Asserts enlightenment can be attained by visualizing Buddhas & other divine figures under guidance of a

teacher In Tibet the Dalai Lama is regarded as a reincarnation of the Buddha Goal is to pass beyond appearance to a void in which one is caught up with absolute being Achieved by reciting mantra (reach out to edges of the world), mudra (movement & gesture) (express unity with

divine)& mandala (mediation circle) (lead to a supreme kind of spiritual experience) Emphasis on rigorous meditation, instruction by special religious characters Necessity for spiritual guru makes this form in Tibet different from other forms of Buddhism Tibetan Buddhism began approx 600BCE, Lamaism, with emphasis on hierarchy – Dalai Lama,

international figure/world leader

Zen Buddhism – 4th school Began around 600BCE in China and spreads to Japan. Attempt to get back to the roots of the religion Founder Bodhidrarma Return to the essential meditation aspect of Buddhism Rejects all formulas, creeds & rituals Stresses enlightenment through deep contemplation – deeper understanding of life Achieve profound peace of mind 7 able to withstand any & all trials of life

Some differences Theravada(elder - teachers)

Man as an individual Man on his own in the universe(emancipation by self effort) Key virtue: wisdom Religion a full-time job(primarily for monks) Ideal: the ARHAT Buddha - a saint Eschews metaphysics (avoids the philosophical side-

doers) Eschews ritual(avoids ritual) Confines prayer to meditation Conservative

Note:Theravada is the more conservative stream of Buddhism. Theravada Buddhists follow more traditional rules. It emphasises the Enlightened person - saving others through ACTION.

Mahayana (great) Man as involved with

others Man not alone(salvation by grace) Key virtue: Karuna

(compassion) Religion relevant to life in

the world(for lay persons as well) Ideal: the

BODHISATTVA Buddha - a saviour Elaborates metaphysics Includes ritual Includes petitionary prayer Liberal

Note:Within Mahayana Buddhism a person delays Enlightenment until salvation - COMPASSION

Vajrayana Built upon the Mahayana and

Theravada traditions and seen as a successive continuation of them.

Emphasies the unity of relative truths (luminosity /appearance) and the absolute truth (emptiness)

Emphasis on magical and sacramental rites

enlightenment is attained through the chanting of magical spells, special hand gestures and mystical diagrams.

Tradition is passed on orally from master to student

Buddhahood is embodied in various male and female deities and accorded particular respect as special embodiments of wisdom.

Belief that all of physical reality was an illusion. The only thing that exists was void or emptiness

The physical world was identical with the Void and human perception was identical with Nirvana.

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Principal BeliefsThe Three JewelsI take refugee in the: Buddha – ideal of buddhahood that is open to all Dhamma – totality of Buddha’s teachings (The four Noble Truths) (doctrine) Sangha – all Buddhists in the world and those past & present (broadest understanding), society of monks

Members of the Sangha: Buddhism monks Refugee in Buddha – follow in his footsteps, emulate his earnest, strive for Nirvana Refugee in Sangha – withdrawal into an environment where Nirvana is possible Theravadha Buddhism – only within the monastery enlightenment can be achieved, moral life of Eight

Fold Path is explicitly targeted and lived out, hence only monks are truly guaranteed Nirvana Monks also live by the ‘Ten Precepts’: Not to – destroy life, steal, engage in sexual immorality, tell

untruths, drink alcohol, eat after noon, dance/sing/go to theatre, adorn oneself with extravagant clothing/ornaments/perfumes, sleep on comfortable beds & have money

Ten Precepts – radical way to live out the Eight Fold Path, said to guarantee reaching Nirvana Monk stands as a symbol of Buddhist morality Forms of Buddhism (other than Theravadha) laypeople can reach Nirvana; first five precepts are

considered essential for following the Eight Fold Path. Patimokha – 227 rules, explicit code for Buddhist monks.

The Four Noble Truths At centre of Buddha’s dhamma Diagnosis of the human condition View of constancy of change ‘whatever is of nature to rise up, all that is of nature to stop’, relation of

interdependence between things To understand existence – aspiration of enlightenment All existence is movement – idea expressed by the term samsara Samsara – culturally & self determined goals, leading to desire of other goals, quest for further existence in

samsara. Ongoing circle of change and goal driven, which leads to dissatisfaction Refugee in doctrine – come to know the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold path as the practical way to

salvation The Noble Truths 1) Life is Dukka – life is full of pain, suffering & unhappiness. Realistic view; resigning to the fact.2) Life is Tanha – life is full of seeking for pleasure. People strive for happiness in flesh, in material things, in

things they are not.3) To Overcome Dukkha, One Must Overcome Tanha – One cannot find pure pleasure in a world of pain.

Overcome craving for pleasure, then overcome real cause of suffering. In resignation, one will find peace.4) One Will Overcome Tanha by Following the Eightfold Path – practical way an individual can overcome

causes of personal suffering & unhappiness.The 1 st Noble Truths

o Dissatisfaction – Dukkha (misleadingly translated as suffering)o Duh – everything that is negativeo Stha – to stando All personal experience is ultimately ‘ unsteady’ or ‘unstable’o Truths define as:

There exists Dukkha There is arising of Dukkha There is cessation of Dukkha There is the path leading to the cessation of Dukkha

o Truths lie at the heart of Buddha’s vision of the nature of existence Buddhist Art Depicted in a more accessible manner

The 2 nd Noble Truths 6

o What it is that drives any given individual being through this existenceo Explains how rebirth can occuro Defines the nature if the persono Defines the physiological forces that give rise to the individuals wish for continued existenceo Twelve link chain of dependent originationo Belief in permanent self, that life is fundamentally satisfyingo Ignorance (#1) gives rise to karmic impulseso Craving gives rise to a strong form of desireo Desires that lead on to actions that will result in further rebirthooo

The 3 rd Noble Truths o Cessation of Dukkha, condition called nirvana (by Buddha)o Complete absence of desire within the mindo Craving & grasping are absento Allowing a person to remain in complete control of themselveso Extinguish the forces of producing karma & rebirtho Nirvana – Three fold interrelated dimensions

Eradicated desire, cause of rebirth and karma Perfect knowledge of Dukkha & absence of it for the person who achieves nirvana Eradicate the special form of ignorance preventing individuals from realizing the

true nature of existenceo Enlightened being will know his own karma and that of othersoo

The 4 th Noble Truths o The practice of Buddhism

The Eight Fold PathWisdom1) Right Views/Understanding – thinking good & positive things2) Right Resolve/Thought – intending always good & positiveConduct3) Right Speech – speaking only good & positive4) Right Conduct/Action – acting always in a good & positive way5) Right Livelihood – working always at what is good & positiveMeditation6) Right Efforts – energies always directed at what is good & positive7) Right Mindfulness – set one’s mind towards good & positive8) Right Concentration – contemplating only good & positive

Sequential set of stepping-stones to attaining Nirvana Right thoughts, intentions, etc will direct towards what is right & thus a life where one’s mind & total

concentration is directed to what is right Buddhist’s ways of achieving total self-control Path towards self-annihilation Object of selfishness & self-seeking pleasure is put away At the end there is no obstacle to complete happiness & perfect peace

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The Marks of Existence Three marks of existence: Anicca, Dukkha & Anatta (related) Anicca – impermanence – nothing in life stays the same, things will change, one cannot rely on the world

in which we live to find final security & peace Dukkha – painful – inadequacy/incompleteness about the world. Struggle with selfishness, when let go of

the selfish urge can over come this pain Anatta – letting go – individual overcomes the selfish, ego driven urge for permanence. Sees

impermanence extends oneself. Nothing to gain in being selfish as there is no self. Accepting impermanence in this ways, pain of incompleteness is accepted, one can find peace. Anicca, Dukkha & Anatta capture the true Heart of Buddhist awakening.

Karma, Samsara, Nirvana Karma – storing up positive energies. Sufficient energies can overcome Samsara. Karma – mental state the free individual from Samsara Ultimate goal of Buddhism is to employ Karma to free oneself from the cycle of Samsara in order to reach

the final point of enlightenment, Nirvana. Nirvana – extinguishing of the self where non-self is realized. Tripitaka – ‘three baskets’ Tripitaka –Three major parts of Buddha’s teachings1) Vinaya2) Sutta3) Abidhamma Closely related to the centrality of Sangha. Sangha routine is the central beliefs of Buddhism Buddha believed the ordered life of the Sangha provided a better long-term authority for Buddhism than a

line of successors.

REBIRTH v REINCARNATION. “The Buddha's Principle of Impermanence states that nothing is eternal or unchanging, except Nirvana. This gives rise to an important point of difference with other religions: Buddhist thinking does not acknowledge the concept of an eternal unchanging soul. Instead, Buddhism regards the constantly changing flow of mental formations, which carries the karmic imprint of past conduct, as the impersonal vitalising energy which passes into rebirth. When a person's physical body dies, this ‘energy’ migrates into another physical life form, carrying with it the karmic imprint of that person’s previous lives. Within Mahayana Buddhism some use the word "reincarnation," to denote an already enlightened person such as a Lama taking physical form again for a beneficial purpose. However, outside Buddhism, other religions regard "reincarnation" to be what happens to the eternal soul when it takes physical form again. Since Buddhism does not acknowledge an eternal soul, nor any other aspect of life being eternal, the word "rebirth" is used to connote a more impersonal process.”

From BuddhaNet http://www.buddhanet.net/

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Sacred texts and writingsTripitaka Pali Canon – stories of foundation of Buddhism, most sacred writings Consists of three groups of discourses (piece of writing about a topic) known as the Tripitaka (three baskets) Began as oral tradition Consist of Sutra (sayings of Buddha), Vinaya (discipline of brotherhood/Sangha), Abidharma or

Abhidharma (creeds based on essential teachings) Pali Canon contains variety of writing styles – poetry, prose, sayings, dialogues, myths Sutra – discourses of Buddha

- sermons- short stories- popular parables – ‘the jataka tales’, suitable for children- scholastic & theological writings- folk tales- establishes good understanding of Buddhism, written for ordinary folk

Vinaya – different writings to the Sutra- Contain rules for monks & nuns to live out the essence of Buddhism- Confusing to ordinary reader unless knowledgeable about Buddhism, may seem strict- Represent the true authority of Buddhism- Buddha/Gautama appointed the Sangha & the disciple (or Vinaya) of Sangha to be the final

authority of Buddhism – no appointed successor, like the Pope in Christianity- Essence of Buddhism – lives of the monks & nuns & the rules that govern their life

Abidharma – hardest writings of the Tripitaka to understand- The Scholarly elaboration of the doctrine of Buddhism- Theological & philosophical- Buddhist doctrine focuses on the individual believer & personal effect of following the

Buddhist way, not the beliefs of the religion

Lotus of the Good Law (Lotus Sutra) Mahayanist tendencies (distinguish from Hinayana) Contains 28 chapters Anecdote illustrating how Buddha rescued individuals/families from difficult situations (samsara); each

plot reveals Buddha’s enlightenment role Stories originally composed in Sanskrit, reworked into the vernacular languages, highly accessible Buddha portrayed as saving others incapable of saving themselves – bodhisattva, liberation through

assisting others, focus for Mahayana Buddhism Central text for Mahayana Buddhism, explicit about Buddha as saviour, like a father Most important Buddhist text in Japan, where Mahayana Buddhism is commonly found Provides one vehicle to buddhahood, subsuming the three vehicles of the Theravada schools Doctrinal move away from the Theravada schools. Theravada – Buddha a historical being, who attained nirvana, three vehicles to achieve nirvana Stories use dramatic imagery, showing Buddha pushing unenlightened out of a state of ignorance towards

enlightenment Buddha’s used various methods to extract individuals out of samsara Buddha, a father like figure, his sons the unenlightened clearly about Buddha as saviour became central text for Mahayana Buddhism doctrinal movement away from Theravada Buddhism teachings on three vehicles to one vehicle for

attaining buddhahood positive & negative in outlook, considered important text in Mahayana Buddhism Nichiren (wrote Lotus Sutra) a militant figure and devote to finding the perfect way to express Buddhism;

the perfect doctrinal expression Lotus of the Good Law - perfect doctrinal expression Lotus – wild flower known for its beauty; powerful symbol for Buddhism

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The Good Law – essential beauty & doctrine of Buddhism Lotus Sutra – beautiful expression of Buddhism in writing Writings expressing the inherent beauty and high morality of Buddhism, symbolized through a flower

Tibetan Book of the Dead For the living and dying Translation – Tibetan Book of living and Dying Describes the experiences to be expected after death – on surface level Collection of funeral liturgies & description of funeral rituals, called bar-do in Tibetan, pertaining to any

intermediate state between death and rebirth Consciousness of deceased reborn into samsara or an enlightened state soul wandering intermediate state between birth & death regarded as a potentially dangerous condition because the soul is wandering & can easily fo the wrong

way, subject to evil forces The Great liberation upon Hearing in the Bar-do; by Karma Lingpa, systemized views, text used in

performing funerals, disposal of body & transferal of consciousness (soul) Manuals & rituals focus on purifying the soul Purify the soul from evil acts from the past & guide to an appropriate new body Bar-do ritual pleas for the purification of sins Release from perilous pathways of the Bar-do Read with the dying to give guidance or over the body to guide the dead in the intermediate state Invoke images of Buddha and bodhisattvas to lead the departure path Teaches how to attain nirvana by recognizing the heavenly realms Not for popular reading/consumption, contains Buddhist mystical doctrines Intended for monks in an advanced state of Buddhist mysticism Dying to ‘self’ and being reborn as ‘non-self’- esoteric level for monks, beneath layers of symbolism Provides insight into ways & means of transforming & improving consciousness

Page 50 Questions 1, 2, 3 & 4For question 4 may need to access internet.

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Core Ethical teachingsBuddhist scriptures & commentaries provided general guidelines for ethical behaviour.There is no set of rule or commandments imposed.

The Five Precepts No ethical authority within religious structures Authority is given to the rules and practical way of life of the Sangha Buddhism is not a religious institution Buddhism is a way of life, a philosophy directing one’s striving & searching Ethical & moral teachings is about a way of life Buddhist morality is a personal one Dhamma is about the universal truth or insight that life is full of suffering caused by self-seeking Samsara (cycle of life and death) until cravings are controlled Nirvana is reached when overcome cravings Ethics must be understood within these key beliefs The precepts guarantee to give success in interaction with others Buddha outline four disadvantages for not following precepts – loss of reputation, loss of self-confidence,

confusion at death and entry into hell Given to ensure people act honestly Practical way of living out the essence of the Three Jewels Point the direction of life The Five Precepts

- not to destroy life (respect & dignity for life)- not to steal (restraint over material things)- not to engage in sexual immorality (restraint over sexual desires)- not to tell untruths (positive communication, build up others & own karma)- not to drink alcohol (constraint from harmful stimulants)

The Vinaya Monastic code Based on the twin principles of causing no harm & striving for welfare of all. Eightfold (eight-limbed noble) Path exemplifies the centrality of ethics in the Buddhist lifestyle of monks

& nuns Compassion in everything that is done The Vinaya rules of the Sangha are designed to remove situations where desire was avoided The Vinaya rules can be restrictive – strict limitations on social activity (e.g. sexuality) & takings things

only necessary Practice of compassion-take interest in affairs of those who are on the wheel of samsara Theravadha Buddhism – only in the monastery enlightenment can truly be achieved – moral life of the

Eightfold Path is explicitly target & lived out. Beyond the eightfold path, the monks live by the ‘Ten Precepts’. The Standard Five Precepts and five more

additional rules that dedicate the life of the monk & can really only be followed in the Sangha. Five additional precepts

- not to eat after noon each day- not to dance, sing or go to the theatre- not to adorn oneself with extravagant clothing or ornaments or perfumes - not to sleep on comfortable beds- not to have money

Radical living out of the Eightfold path Said to guarantee the reaching of Nirvana Monk stands as a symbol of Buddhist morality Forms of Buddhism (other than Theravadha) laypeople can reach Nirvana; first five precepts are

considered essential for following the Eight Fold Path. Patimokkha – 227 rules, explicit code for Buddhist monks. Observance of rules tested monthly at patimokkha ritual

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Nine levels of different rules, with punishment allocated for breaking rules Covers every conceivable aspect of morality Surer guarantee monks do not stray from the path the leads to Nirvana

Lay Buddhist’ Guide to the Monk’s RulesSummarize three of the rules

http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/buddhistworld/layguide.htm

The Five PreceptsOutline the principal ethical teachings in Buddhism

The VinayaDescribe the importance of ethical teachings in the life of adherents

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Personal devotion in the home Worship The ritual that honours a god or goddess, as a divine guest, usually in a temple Monks participate in the fortnightly pratimoksha ceremony (or patimokkha ritual?) where the Vinaya rules

are recited in full and any infringements are recorded. Monks additionally participate in rituals in the monastery/temple – leading lay people in veneration

(expression of respect) of the Buddha Formal rituals – kathina & parivara, interaction between Sangha & laity Kathina – formal statement, traditionally at end of rainy season, purity of Sangha Kathina – lay people take presents to temples Parivara – performed after Kathina, ceremony where monks receive robes, sewn by laity from local area

Kathina Ceremony (Robe offering ceremony)Is held on any convenient date within one month of the conclusion of the Vassa Retreat, which is the three month rains retreat season (Vassa) for the monastic order. It is the time of the year when new robes and other requisites may be offered by the laity to the monks. (Buddhanet.com)Pavarana DayThis day marks the conclusion of the Rains retreat (vassa). In the following month, the kathina ceremony is held, during which the laity gather to make formal offerings of robe cloth and other requisites to the Sangha. (Buddhanet.com)

Puja Worship in the home, a later development Show honour, respect or devotional observance to Buddha/bodhisattva/guru Conducted daily at monasteries (morning & night). Also on ‘days of observance’ corresponding to phases

of the moon & other special occasions Days of observance – laypeople gather to listen to the Dharma & observe particular precepts (additional) Small shrines in home holding pictures/images of Buddha or prominent living monk/Buddhist holy

man/bodhisattva Simple/elaborate Tibetan houses – entire rooms are set aside as focus of worship Candles, flowers, incense, coloured paintings on silk, image of Buddha Tibetan Buddhism – some form of offering ritual (cakes, sacred object, dance ritual, feast offerings) Fire puja – various forms, e.g. to bless the ground before construction of temple/stupa; overcoming

obstacles; subdue harmful forces Taking refugee in the Three Jewels of Buddha, dhamma & Sangha – ritual that can be performed privately

or in public by laity (simple, takes a few minutes) Reaffirms person’s commitment to the Buddhist path Buddhist know how to take refugee (even if do not know other forms of prayer) Refugee performed with few offerings, bodily prostration (lying prone or stretched out with the face downwards, for

example in worship or submission) Flowers placed in front of the Buddha, bathed in special water when blooming, symbolic of Buddha’s

attainment of enlightenment. Verse recited:“This mass of flowers endowed with colour………I worship the Buddha with these flowers………………...” Oil lamps, bring symbolism of the removal of ignorance, set on altar, flame symbolizes Buddha’s capacity

as dispeller (rid somebody’s mind of a particular thought or idea) of light. Designed to acquire good karma (merit) & prevent evil influences entering the home Natural & appropriate expression of genuine human feeling. Outward acts of inner affirmation & recollection Devotional texts are recited as meditations (not prayers) Ritual devotion with an inspiring visualization of the Buddha & with contemplations of his noble qualities Joy produces calm, calm leads to ease, ease increases concentration, true concentration is basis of

liberating insightPuja

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The name given to the wide variety of devotional and offering ceremonies practiced in all Buddhist traditions. The word itself comes from the root meaning 'a flower' while pujas themselves probably developed from the custom of offering the Buddha flowers on his arrival in a particular place during his travels. The earliest pujas, still practiced in Theravada, consisted of placing flowers, lights and incense in front of a symbol or image of the Buddha. The value of the practice is that it grows out of and reinforces faith and devotion which are considered positive emotions able to motivate and enhance one's practice of the Dhamma. In Mahayana pujas are often long and elaborate and in some cases believed to have a magical power. The Tantrayana has a wide variety of very elaborate pujas, some meant to be expressions of devotion others to induce wealth, long life, help from the gods and also spiritual qualities. (Buddhanet.com)

Visakha Puja - falls on the full moon of the sixth month of the lunar year (around the middle of May on the international calendar). It is one of the most important days for Buddhists because on this day the Lord Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died. All three of these significant events fell on the same day. Visakha Puja is usually celebrated with a public sermon during the day and a candle lit procession to pay respect to the Lord Buddha during the night.

Magha Puja - falls on the full moon of the third lunar month (February). It was on this day that 1,250 enlightened monks converged to pay respect to the Lord Buddha without any prior appointment. The day is celebrated in a similar fashion to Visakha Puja day.

Asalha Puja - falls on the full moon of the eighth lunar month (July) and is also very important. It was on this day that the Lord Buddha preached His sermon to followers after attaining enlightenment. The day is usually celebrated by merit making, listening to a monk’s sermon, and joining a candle lit procession during the night. (Buddhanet.com)

Puja http://www.hayagriva.org.au/program.html

Puja is Sanskrit for "offering". It's good to bring an offering of food and flowers to generate good merit. This merit can be dedicated for the benefit of friends, family and other particular purposes.

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Pujas (Chanted Meditations) http://www.meditationinperth.org/pujas.htm

Pujas are special methods for receiving Buddha's blessings and increasing the power of our meditations.

About Everyone is welcome to attend these pujas and there is no charge to attend. Feel free to ask questions about the prayers so that over time you can understand them perfectly and experience their full effect.

Pujas are held at Dharmapala Centre on an almost daily basis. Please see our monthly calander on our downloads page for days and times.

HEART JEWEL (with Lamrim Meditation) is the essential practice of Kadampa Buddhism. he puja involves three parts. In the first part we visualise our Spiritual Guide as Je Tsongkapa and make prayers and requests to purify our negativity, accumulate merit and receive blessings. In the second part there is a 20 minute pause to engage in a contemplation meditation. We then make prayers to our Dharma Protector, Dorje Shugdan. Through this we can overcome obstacles to our practice and create favourable conditions so that we can nurture and increase our pure Dharma realisations. Heart Jewel is on every day (except Saturday) from 11.30 - 12.30 pm.

WISHFULFILLING JEWEL is a slightly longer version of Heart Jewel. Again, this puja involves requests for blessings and a contemplative meditation but it has more requests for the removal of obstacles as well as a “tsog offering ceremony”. A tsog offering ceremony is like a party that we invite all the Buddhas to attend! You can bring an offering of food or drink which everyone is invited to stay and enjoy after the puja. Wish fulfilling Jewel is on Saturdays from 6 – 7.30pm – but please arrive 15 minutes early if you would like to make a contribution to the tsog offering.

KANGSO This is our long protector puja and involves extensive requests to the Dharma protector, Dorje Shugdan, for the removal of obstacles on the spiritual path. his is a monthly puja which takes about three hours and involves a tsog offering. It takes place on the 29th of each month. Everyone is welcome to attend, bring an offering and stay for the tsog party afterwards. Times vary so check the monthly calendar.

TARA is an enlightened being in female aspect. She is often referred to as the ‘swift rescuer’ because she is quick to come to the aid of those who call on her. Indeed, this is why she does not appear in the traditional meditation posture but instead has one leg extended so she can quickly rise to calls for help. We call on her during the Tara Puja on the 8th of each month and also make offerings of food and drink. Times vary so check the monthly calendar.

OFFERING TO THE SPIRITUAL GUIDE is a special puja that takes place fortnightly and involves a tsog offering. By engaging in this puja, we have the opportunity to receive our Spiritual Guide’s enlightened blessings and inspiration, and gain experience of all the stages of the spiritual path. It takes place on the 10th and 25th of each month for about two hours. Times vary so check the monthly calendar. Please arrive early particularly if you are contributing to the tsog offering.

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http://www.beacy.wa.edu.au/iorr/religions/bhuddism.htmPlace of Worship How Prayer 

Buddhist Temples. Inside a temple, there is a shrine and often a statue of the Buddha either meditating or lying down. If someone puts goldleaf on a Buddha statue or on the temple it is said to 'gain them merit'. Monks and Nuns may live at the Temple. Stupas. These are ancient burial mounds of great religious teachers.

Meditation - Often kneeling or crosslegged. Still and quiet, eyes closed or slightly open, breathe calmly. Either in a temple or at home. Puja - sit or kneel in front of a shrine, bow and say the Three Jewels. Offerings - of flowers and lighting candles and incense in front of a buddha staue. Dhana - saying thanks to monks and nuns by offering food and robes. Buddha rupas - pictures or images of Buddha

Meditation - a special kind of concentrated thinking to make your mind clear and bright.  Mandalas - usually a circular 'map' which helps you to meditate as you go through the 'gateways at the edges towards the centre. Tibetan monks have created sand mandalas in Fremantle. When it was finished it was tipped into the ocean as an act towards world peace. Mantras - a single sound such as Om or Aum constantly repeated. Gardens - Zen buddhists (Japan) make gardens of rocks, raked sand, stones and maybe a few trees to help them meditate

WorshipBuddhists can worship both at home or at a temple. It is not considered essential to go to a temple to worship with others.

At HomeBuddhists will often set aside a room or a part of a room as a shrine. There will be a statue of Buddha, candles, and an incense burner.

TemplesBuddhist temples come in many shapes. Perhaps the best known are the pagodas of China and Japan.Another typical Buddhist building is the Stupa, which is a stone structure built over what are thought to be relics of the Buddha, or over copies of the Buddha's teachings.Buddhist temples are designed to symbolise the five elements:

Fire Air Earth, symbolised by the square base Water Wisdom, symbolised by the pinnacle at the top.

All Buddhist temples contain an image or a statue of Buddha.

WorshipThere as many forms of Buddhist worship as there are schools of Buddhism - and there are many of those.Worship in Mahayana tradition takes the form of devotion to Buddha and to Bodhisattvas.Worshippers may sit on the floor barefoot facing an image of Buddha and chanting. They will listen to monks chanting from religious texts, perhaps accompanied by instruments, and take part in prayers.

Buddhist temple, Khatmandu, Nepal

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http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/buddhism/worship/index.shtml

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QuestionsWhat is the ultimate goal of holiness for Buddhists?Achieve enlightenmentReach Nirvana

The ultimate goal of holiness for Buddhists is following the Middle Way to attain NirvanaDiscuss the following questions using the support material below:

What is the ‘Samsara circle’?What is the force which keeps this wheel turning?What causes ‘rebirths’?What do Buddhists mean by rebirth?What is the law of Karma?Why is it important to Buddhist?How can Buddhists escape from the law of Karma?What is the relationship between Karma, rebirth and nirvana?How does reaching Nirvana lead to the ultimate goal of holiness?

What guides do Buddhist’s follow to assist in achieving the ultimate goal?Buddha’s lifeDali Lama

What models or guides do Buddhist’s follow to assist in achieving the ultimate goal?SanghaEightfold pathFive/Ten Precepts

Buddha’s life - The Buddha himself provides the model of holiness. This is revealed through his life and teachingsDali Lama – Vajrayana school of Buddhism

Monk & Nuns are models & guides to the lay person as they display the essence of Buddhism

Show how Buddha is a model of holiness

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Buddhism

Buddhist Festivals around the World

Buddhism began in northeastern India and is based on the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. The religion is 2,500 years old and is followed by 350 million Buddhists worldwide.

Buddhism is the main religion in many Asian countries. It is a religion about suffering and the need to get rid of it. A key concept of Buddhism is Nirvana, the most enlightened, and blissful state that one can achieve. A state without suffering. 

Place of Origin North East IndiaFounder Siddhartha Gautama (The Buddha)Sacred Text TripitakaSacred Building StupaMajor Festivals WesakMain Branches (Denominations)

Theravada, Mahayana, Tibetan, Chinese and Japanese groups including Soto and Zen

How is Buddhism different from other religions?Buddhism is different from many other faiths because it is not centred on the relationship between humanity and God. Buddhists do not believe in a personal creator God.

Who is the founder of Buddhism?The Buddhist tradition is founded on and inspired by the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama. He was called the Buddha and lived in the 4th or 5th century B.C. in India.

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Why is Siddhartha Gautama so important to Buddhists?Siddhartha Gautama found the path to Enlightenment. By doing so he was led from the pain of suffering and rebirth towards the path of Enlightenment and became known as the Buddha or "awakened one".

Who was Siddhartha Gautama?Siddharta Gautama is known as the Buddha.

He was born around the year 580 BCE in the village of Lumbini in Nepal. He was born into a royal family and for many years lived with in the palace walls away from the sufferings of life; sufferings such as sickness, age, and death. He did not know what they were.

One day, after growing-up, marrying and having a child, Siddhartha went outside the royal palace and saw, each for the first time, an old man, a sick man, and a corpse. He was

worried by what he saw. He learned that sickness, age, and death were the inevitable fate of human beings — a fate no-one could avoid.

Why did Siddhartha Gautama stop being a prince and become a Holy Man?Siddharta had also seen a monk, and he decided this was a sign that he should leave his protected royal life and live as a homeless Holy Man.

Siddharta's travels showed him much more of the the suffering of the world. He searched for a way to escape the inevitability of death, old age and pain first by studying with religious men. This didn't provide him with an answer.

What are the symbols of Buddhism?

The wheel of life which symbolises the cycle of life, death and rebirth.The eight spokes remind people that the Buddha taught about eight ways of life. The lotus flower symbolises purity and divine birth.The lotus flower grows in mud at the bottom of a pool, but rises above the surface to become a beautiful flower. Buddhist say this is how people should rise above everything which is dukkha. A flower may be very beautiful and have a wonderful scent, but it soon withers and dies. This shows that nothing in life is perfect. Images of BuddhaStatues of Buddha include lots of symbols. There are 32 symbols in Buddhism which show that the Buddha was a special person. Any of these symbols can be used on statues.

For example, the Buddha is often shown with a bump on on the top of his head. This is a symbol that he had special talents. He is often seen with a

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round mark on his forehead, which is his third eye. This is a symbol to show that he could see things ordinary people cannot see. He may be shown with curled hair, which is a symbol that he was a very holy man. Sometimes he has long ears, which is a symbol that he came from an important family, and also that he could hear things that other people could not.

See photographs of other images of Buddhism

How to Buddhists Worship?Buddhist worship is called puja. People chant to show their love for the Buddha. They make offerings of flowers, candles, incense and pure water at a shrine. People thank Buddha for his teachings.

When Buddhist worship alone they usually meditate and read from the Buddhist holy books.

Every month. most Buddhists have special religious days. These are often days when there is a full moon. Many Buddhists go to temples to worship.

What is Enlightenment and Nirvana / Nibbana?Buddhist believe that there is a cycle of birth, life and death and rebirth. This goes on and on. They believe that unless someone gains Enlightenment, when they die they will be reborn. If a person can gain Enlightenment, they can break out of this cycle.

Breaking out of the cycle is called Nirvana (sometimes called Nibbana). It is the end of everything that is not perfect. It is perfect peace, free of suffering.

MeditationBuddhists try to reach Nirvana by following the Buddha's teaching and by meditating. Meditation means training the mind to empty it all of thoughts. when this happens what is important comes clear.

What is the sacred text (Holy Book) of Buddhists?The sacred book of Buddhism is called the Tripitaka (called Tipitaka in Pali). It is also called the Pali Canon, after the language in which it was first written.

It is written in an ancient Indian language called Pali which is very close to the language that the Buddha himself spoke. The Tripitaka is a very large book. The English translation of it takes up nearly forty volumes.

Buddhism is based on Buddha's teachings. At first these were passed down by word of mouth and later were complied into two sets of scripture. One set by Council of Monks of the Theravada school (the Tripitaka) the other by the Mahayana school ( the Sutras). Both were similar.

Both Theravada and Mahayana Buddhists generally accept the Tripitaka (called

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Tipitaka in Pali) as the Buddhist sacred writings.

The three section of the Tripitaka (three baskets of Wisdom) are

1. Vinaya Pitaka (the Discipline Basket) - A rule book for monks and nunsThere are 227 rules for monks,and more for nuns.

2. Sutta Pitaka (the Teaching Basket)- The actual experiences of Buddha 3. Abhidhamma Pitaka (the Higher Doctrine Basket)- An explanation on the

teaching of Buddha. Most of these are called Sutras

Parts of the Tripitaka such as the Dhamma-pada and the Sutta-Nipata are among the most expressive religious books in the world. Some of Buddha's parables are very similar to those used by Jesus.

What do Buddhist believe?Buddhist believe that the Buddha saw the truth about what the world is like. They believe that nothing in the world is perfect, and that the Buddha found the answer to why it is like this. They do not believe that the Buddha was a god. He was a human being just like them. They believe that he was important because he gained Enlightenment, and he chose to teach other people how to reach it too.

The Three JewelsThere are three Buddhist central beliefs. These are known as the three jewels as they are felt to be so precious.

1. Belief in Buddha 2. Dharma - The teaching of Buddha 3. The Sangha - the Buddhist community made up of ordinary people as well

as the monks and nuns. The purpose is to help others and by doing so to cease to become selfish and to move on the way towards enlightenment.

One important belief involves reincarnation: the concept that one must go through many cycles of birth, living, and death. After many such cycles, if a person releases their attachment to desire and the self, they can attain Nirvana  - a state of liberation and freedom from suffering.

At the heart of the Buddha's teaching lie The Four Noble Truths and The Eightfold Path which lead the Buddhist towards the path of Enlightenment.

What did Buddha teach?

The Buddha's teaching is often divided into three parts. These are the :

Three Signs of Beings Four Noble Truths

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Noble Eightfold Path

The Three Signs of Being The Three Signs of Being are the ways that the Buddha used to describe life.

1. Nothing in life is perfect. ( dukkha) It includes things like being bored and uncomfortable, and everything which is not satisfactory.

2. Everything in life - even solid things such as mountains - is changing, all the time. (anicca)

3. There is no soul. (anatta) Instead, the Buddha taught, what does carry on to the next life is a person's life force (Karma). The Karma can be good or bad, depending on how the person lives in this life.

The Four Noble Truths What is the First Noble Truth? Dukkha: Suffering exists: The first truth is that life is suffering i.e. life includes pain, getting old, disease, and ultimately death. We also endure psychological suffering like loneliness frustration, boredom, fear, embarrassment, disappointment and anger.

What is the Second Noble Truth? Samudaya: There is a cause for suffering. The second truth is that suffering is caused by craving and the needing to control things. It can take many forms: the desire for fame; the desire to avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy.

What is the Third Noble Truth? Nirodha: There is an end to suffering. The third truth is that suffering can be overcome and happiness can be attained; that true happiness and contentment are possible. lf let go of our craving and learn to live each day at a time (not dwelling in the past or the imagined future) then we can become happy and free. We then have more time and energy to help others. This is Nirvana.

What is the Fourth Noble Truth? Magga: In order to end suffering, you must follow the Eightfold Path.The fourth truth is that the Noble 8-fold Path is the path which leads to the end of suffering.

What is Dukkha?Dukkha is suffering. All existence is "dukkha"; without permanence and therefore filled with suffering.

The Noble Eight-Fold PathThe Noble Eight-fold Path focuses the mind on being fully aware of our thoughts and actions, and developing wisdom by understanding the Four Noble Truths. It

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is the way Buddhists should live their lives. The Buddha said that people should avoid extremes. They should not have or do too much, but neither should they have or do too little. The 'Middle Way' is the best.

The path to Enlightenment (nirvana) is through the practice and development of wisdom, morality and meditation.

Three Qualities Eightfold PathWisdom (panna) Right View (understanding)   Right ThoughtMorality (sila) Right Speech  Right Action  Right LivelihoodMeditation (samadhi) Right Effort  Right Mindfulness  Right Contemplation (concentration)

What are the 5 Precepts (morals)? These are rules to live by. The main five are:

Do not take the life of anything living. (Do not kill) Do not take anything not freely given. (Do not steal) Abstain from sexual misconduct and sensual overindulgence. Refrain from untrue speech, (Do not lie)

Do not consume alcohol or other drugs. The main concern here is that intoxicants cloud the mind.

What is Karma? Karma is the law that every cause has an effect, i.e., our actions have results. This simple law explains a number of things: inequality in the world, why some are born handicapped and some gifted, why some live only a short life. Buddhists believe that are past actions have an effect on who or what we are in our next life.

Are There Different Types of Buddhism? There are many different types of Buddhism, because the emphasis changes from country to country due to customs and culture. What does not vary is the essence of the teaching — the Dhamma or truth.

Theravada Buddhism, the school of Buddhism found in Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar & in part, Indonesia, Vietnam & Malaysia.

Mahayana Buddhism, the school of Buddhism found in China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam.

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Vajrayana Buddhism, the school of Buddhism found in Tibet, Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and Mongolia.

Jodo Shin Buddhism or Pure Land Buddhism mainly from India, Japan

Zen Buddhismhttp://www.woodlands-junior.kent.sch.uk/Homework/religion/buddhism.htm

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