World Religions Flashcards
What does Enlightenment in Buddhism refer to?
The state of wisdom, peace of mind, and spiritual growth
Enlightenment is achieved by overcoming ignorance and realizing the true nature of reality.
What do the six vertical stripes on the Buddhist flag represent?
The colors of the Buddha’s aura when he became enlightened
Each color symbolizes different aspects of the Buddha’s teachings.
Where was Siddhartha Gautama born?
Lumbini
Lumbini is located in present-day Nepal.
What was Siddhartha Gautama’s predicted future?
To be a great leader
This prediction was due to his sheltered upbringing.
What did Siddhartha Gautama see during his first outing?
A dead man, a sick man, a holy man, and an old man
These sights deeply affected him and inspired his quest for truth.
What did Siddhartha Gautama seek after leaving his home?
The truth about life
His journey led him to meditation under a Bodhi tree.
What is the significance of the Bodhi tree in Buddhism?
The place where Gautama attained enlightenment
The Bodhi tree symbolizes wisdom and awakening.
What does the term ‘urna’ refer to in Buddhism?
The third eye
It symbolizes spiritual insight and awareness.
What do long earlobes symbolize in Buddhism?
Material past and renunciation
They represent the shedding of material attachments.
What is the ‘Mudra’ in Buddhist practice?
A hand gesture
Mudras are used to express specific intentions and teachings.
What is the first noble truth?
Suffering (Dukkha)
This is the belief that suffering is real and happens all the time. There are many types of suffering but they are all the same. Happiness is only temporary.
What is the second noble truth?
The belief that the cause of suffering is greed (Samudaya)
Particually:
1. Greed - wanting things like a new iPhone that you don’t need
2. Ignorance - not knowing the four noble truths
3. Hate - wanting bad upon others, wanting them to suffer
What is the 3rd noble truth?
You can avoid suffering (Nirodha)
This can be done by avoiding craving and living life fully or to happiness (Nirvana)
What is the 4th noble truth?
To end suffering, follow the eightfold path (Magga)
To do this you must avoid 2 extremes, luxury and hardships, and try to find a balance between both, the middle way
