Buddhist Key Word Test

Question 1

Samatha meditation

Answer 1

Calming meditation; involves calming the mind and deeper concentration.

Question 2

Kasina

Answer 2

A visual object to help focus the mind (earth, water, fire, wind, blue, yellow, red, white, space, consciousness).

Question 3

Vipassana meditation

Answer 3

Insight meditation; involves developing an understanding of the nature of reality.

Question 4

Zazen meditation

Answer 4

Seated meditation; requires awareness of the present moment

Question 5

Visualisation meditation

Answer 5

Imagining or seeing an object in your mind.

Question 6

Thangka

Answer 6

A detailed painting of a Buddha or Bodhisattva

Question 7

Mandala

Answer 7

An intricate circle shaped pattern used for meditation

Question 8

The three marks of existence

Answer 8

3 characteristics that are fundamental to everything and understanding the nature of reality (Dukkha, anicca, anatta.)

Question 9

The eightfold path

Answer 9

8 aspects that Buddhists practice and live by in order to achieve enlightenment (ethics, meditation, wisdom).

Question 10

Bodhisattva

Answer 10

Someone who has become enlightened but chooses to stay in cycle of samsara (Mahayana Buddhism)