Religious Identity (Buddhism) Flashcards
What does ‘Sangha’ mean?
Assembly
What are Buddhist monks and nuns called?
Bhikkhus and Bhikkhunis
How do lay people make merit?
Donating food and money to the monastic community
How do the monastic community support the lay-community?
Teaching lay-people, offering Buddhist retreats, offering counselling
What 5 possessions do bhikkus own?
- Alms bowl
- Razor
- Water Strainer
- Needle
- Saffron robes
how many precepts do monks follow?
311
What privileges are given to Buddhist monks by the Thai government?
Land, money and free travel on public transport
How has the role of the Sangha changed in Thailand?
- The Sangha no longer provides education, this is now a state responsibility
- The Sangha are no longer involved in the Thai government or politics generally
What tradition is the Wat Phra Dhammakaya?
Theravada
What are some features of the Wat Pra Dhammakaya?
- Revivalist
- Focus on meditation
- singular lay-community
- Uses modern technology
- Emphasises merit-making
What is the motto of the Wat Phra Dhammakaya?
“World Peace Through Inner Peace”
What is one of the main criticisms of the Wat Phra Dammakaya?
It uses Buddhism for profit - millionaire’s club (pay-to-win rebirth)
What happens during ordination in Theravada Buddhist countries?
Boys have their hair and eyebrows shaved and formally take refuge in the Three Jewels
What is Puja?
Theavada acts of worship that show respect and gives thanks to the Buddha
Why is Mahayana worship more direct than Theravada?
Mayahana Buddhists believe Buddhas and Bodhisattvas can be communicated with directly
What is the name of the hall in a Buddhist temple where Buddhists can meditate?
Gompa
What is a Buddharupa?
An image of the Buddha (usually a small statues)
What are some of the common Buddharupas?
- Medicine Buddha
- Nirvana Buddha
- Meditation Buddha
- Protection Buddha
What are the 3 stages of the Eightfold path that relate to meditation?
- Right effort
- Right concentration
- Right mindfulness
What is samatha meditation?
Meditation that aims to calm and focus the mind
What is vipassana meditation
Meditation that aims to achieve insight into truth of existence
What is metta-bhavana meditation?
Meditation that aims to cultivate positive moral attitudes towards others
How is meditation used in the secular world?
A form of therapy
