The spread of Buddhism

Question 1

What was the Buddha’s final teaching

Answer 1

Before his death, the Buddha did not select a new leader of Buddhism. Instead, he gave his final preaching that explained how those who see the Dharma see him

Question 2

What happened to the Buddha’s body

Answer 2

It was cremated and taken to a stupa (a Buddhist place of burial where they bury important people or things)

Question 3

Describe what happened after the Buddha gave his final teaching

Answer 3

Instead of ‘dying,’ the Buddha went into a deep, meditative trance and left for nirvana

Question 4

What happened at the First Buddhist Council

Answer 4

The senior monks and the Buddha’s closest followers gathered a meeting where they recited the entire Dharma in remembrance of the Buddha’s life and service

Question 5

How did Emperor Ashoka rule before he converted to Buddhism

Answer 5

Like any other emperor in Ancient Indian times, Ashoka wanted to expand his empire and gain more power. He was willing to use force to do so

Question 6

How did Emperor Ashoka rule after he converted to Buddhism

Answer 6

After converting, Ashoka focused less on the expansion of his empire and more on the well-being of his subjects. He built schools and hospitals and made sure that the elderly, sick and orphaned were being cared for