Buddhism Summary Flashcards
What are the 4 noble truths?
The 4 noble truths are:
1. suffering is an inescapable part of life
2. Suffering stems from the greed and hatred in our minds
3. We can end all suffering if we stop craving and respond differently
4. Buddha’s steps for achieving happiness and Nirvana
What are the 3 universal truths?
The universal truths are annica, anatta and Dukkha.
Define annica
Everything changes
Define anatta
There is no permanent self
Define Dukkha
Everyone suffers
What were the 4 sights?
A sick man
A poor beggar monk
An old man
A dead man
Define Buddha
The enlightened one, the title given to Siddhartha Gautama after he reached enlightenment
Define enlightenment
The realisation of truth. It is achieved from knowledge held inside that was released through meditation and/or hard work.
What is the story of Siddhartha Gautama?
He was a prince who was locked up in a castle by his father who wanted to make sure he became a rich king. One day he was in his carriage riding around the grounds and he asked his driver to leave the ground and he say the 4 sights. This made him want to find a way toend all suffering . He left behind a life of luxury to become a wandering holy man and finally an enlightened being. The Buddha’s teachings show people the nature of reality and the path to enlightenment.
Who did Siddhartha’s father call to predict his future and what did the man say Siddhartha would become?
The father called an astrologer and the astrologer said Siddhartha would become either a great king or a great religious teacher and give up all his fortune.
How long did Siddhartha meditate for and under which type of tree?
He spent 49 days sitting under a Bo-tree
What was the name of the evil one who tempted Siddhartha?
Mara was the name of the evil one.
Define laity
Only the ordinary followers of Buddhism
What is the Theravadin Buddhists definition of Sangha?
Sangha is used to describe Buddhist monks and nuns (they call the laity ‘householders’)
What is the Mahayana Buddhists definition of Sangha?
Sangha is used to describe the whole Buddhist community (all Buddhists).