Buddhism: The Dharma

Question 1

4 Noble Truths

Answer 1

The foundational teachings of the Buddha that explain the nature of suffering and the path to its cessation. They are: (1) the truth of suffering (dukkha), (2) the cause of suffering (craving), (3) the cessation of suffering (nirvana), and (4) the path leading to the cessation of suffering (the Eightfold Path)

Question 2

Eightfold Path

Answer 2

The Buddhist guide to ethical and mental development, leading to the cessation of suffering and the attainment of nirvana. It consists of: Right View, Right Intention, Right speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, and Right Concentration

Question 3

5 Precepts

Answer 3

The basic ethical guidelines for lay Buddhists, designed to promote moral living and reduce harm. They are: (1) refrain from harming living beings, (2) refrain from taking what is not given, (3) refrain from sexual misconduct, (4) refrain from false speech, and (5) refrain from intoxicants that cloud the mind

Question 4

Dharma (Buddhism)

Answer 4

Refers to the teachings of the Buddha, which explain the nature of reality, suffering, and the path to spiritual liberation. It also refers to the universal truth and law that governs existence

Question 5

Anatman (No-Self)

Answer 5

The Buddhist teaching that there is no permanent, unchanging self or soul. Instead, the self is seen as a collection of changing physical and mental components (skandhas)

Question 6

Dukkha (Suffering)

Answer 6

Refers to the inherent suffering and dissatisfaction in life, which arises from attachment, craving, and ignorance. It is the first of the Four Noble Truths

Question 7

Impermanence (Anicca)

Answer 7

The teaching that all things are in a constant state of flux and change. Nothing remains the same; everything is subject to birth, growth, decay, and death

Question 8

No God

Answer 8

In Buddhism, there is no belief in a creator god or supreme deity who controls the universe. Instead, the focus is on personal spiritual development and the understanding of natural laws, such as karma and the cycle of rebirth (samsara)

Question 9

Ahimsa (Buddhism)

Answer 9

The principle of non-violence, central to both Buddhism and Jainism. It involves refraining from harming any living being, whether through thoughts, words, or actions

Question 10

Nonattachment

Answer 10

The practice of letting go of desires, cravings, and attachments to people, possessions, and outcomes. It is essential for freeing oneself from suffering

Question 11

Mindfulness (Sati)

Answer 11

The practice of being fully aware and present in each moment, observing thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment or attachment

Question 12

Compassion/Loving Kindness (Metta)

Answer 12

The Buddhist practice of universal goodwill toward all beings, while compassion (karuna) involves a deep empathy for the suffering of others and the desire to alleviate it

Question 13

Buddhist Wheel (Dharmachakra)

Answer 13

Symbolizes the Buddha’s teachings and the path to enlightenment. The eight spokes of the wheel represent the Eightfold Path

Question 14

Meditation (Buddhism)

Answer 14

A central practice in Buddhism, used to develop mindfulness, concentration, and insight into the nature of reality. It helps practitioners calm the mind and gain insight into the causes of suffering and the path to enlightenment

Question 15

Parinirvana

Answer 15

Refers to the final state of Nirvana that occurs when an enlightened being (like the Buddha) passes away, leaving the cycle of birth and death (samsara) forever