branches of buddhism

Question 1

zen buddhism

Answer 1

•first developed in china
•strong focus on zazen meditation
•they try and get into a state of no thoughts
•use koans

Question 2

what are koans? (zen)

Answer 2

a question, a story or a statement used in zen buddhism to help bring out specific forms of thought and into a realm of pure awareness
-helps to break from logical thought and enter a state where they can get answers from within

Question 3

pureland buddhism

Answer 3

•chanting the buddhas name - repeating the buddhas name will allow one to get into the pureland
•if one believes they will not achieve enlightenment this lifetime, they would practise this branch of buddhism

Question 4

what is the pureland? (pureland buddhism)

Answer 4

a superior place to spiritually train for full buddhahood

Question 5

nichiren buddhism

Answer 5

•central practise is chanting
•learn and understand the sutra (scripture)
•emphasises on the power of the individual

Question 6

tibetan buddhism

Answer 6

•practices the 6 perfections
•tibetan buddhism teaches that we are all potential buddhas
•use prayer flags - promote peace, compassion, strength and wisdom

Question 7

what are the 6 perfections? (tibetan buddhism)

Answer 7

•generosity
•morality
•patience
•energy
•meditation
•wisdom