3.1.5 The Dharma/Dhamma (basics)

Question 1

What are the 4 meanings of Dharma/Dhamma?

Answer 1

• The truth about the nature of existence which the Buddha came to understand when he became enlightened.
• The teachings of the Buddha. He didn’t invent Dharma, it has always existed - he became awakened to it and taught it to others.
• The path of training the Buddha recommends for those who wish to be free of suffering and gain enlightenment. Buddhists sometimes call themselves ‘followers of Dharma’ as it guides their life - guides their thinking and actions, helping them to become enlightened themselves.
• Dharma is sometimes translated as law, as in a law if the universe, like gravity, not a law as in a rule. It is a fact about the way things are.

Question 1

What are 2 examples about the first and second understanding of Dharma?

Answer 1

• The Three marks of Existence
• The Four Noble Truths

Question 2

What is an example of the third understanding of Dharma?

Answer 2

The Eightfold Path.