Year 8 Buddhism

Question 1

Do Buddhists see Buddha as a God?

Answer 1

No, there is no God in Buddhism. Buddha is seen as a very special human.

Question 2

What is the place of worship in Buddhism called?

Answer 2

A Temple or Centre

Question 3

What are the holy texts in Buddhism?

Answer 3

The Pali Canon and the Dham Mapada

Question 4

When and where did the Buddha live?

Answer 4

Roughly 2500 years ago, in India

Question 5

What was Buddha called?

Answer 5

Siddhartha Gautama

Question 6

What does Buddha mean?

Answer 6

The awakened one

Question 7

What four things did Gautama see from his chariot?

Answer 7

An old man, a sick man, a corpse and an ascetic (holy man)

Question 8

What did Gautama do after seeing the four men?

Answer 8

He was sickened by the realities of old age, disease and death. When he returned home he was unhappy with his life, and he decided he could no longer be happy with life as a prince, so he changed his clothes to a beggar’s, shaved his head and left.

Question 9

What are the Four Noble Truths?

Answer 9

1. Everywhere there is suffering (Dukkha)
2. The origin of our suffering is our cravings (Samudāya)
3. We can stop suffering (Nirodha)
4. The way to stop suffering is following the the ‘middle way’ (Magga)

Question 10

What are the three refuges/jewels?

Answer 10

1. Buddha (Yellow) - It is possible to change for the better and reach Enlightenment.
2. Dharma (Blue) - Buddha’s teachings, which have helped them become happier, kinder and free from suffering.
3. Sangha (Red) - The Community, who help and encourage each other to follow the Buddha’s path.

Question 11

What is the Noble Eightfold Path?

Answer 11

A set of rules for Buddhists to follow: Right

1. Speech
2. Action
3. Livelihood
4. Effort
5. Mindfulness
6. Concentration
7. Understanding
8. Intention

Question 12

What are the five extra rules for Buddhist monks?

Answer 12

To refrain from…

1. Eating after midday
2. Dancing, singing or unsuitable entertainment
3. Using perfume, make-up or garlands
4. Sleeping in a luxurious bed
5. Handling gold, silver or money

Question 13

What are mandalas?

Answer 13

Mandalas are a form of Buddhist artwork, considered sacrean and often used as meditation objects.

Question 14

What is Samsara?

Answer 14

The cycle of birth, death and rebirth.

Question 15

How do Buddhists escape Samsara and go to Nirvana?

Answer 15

By extinguishing anger, ignorance and desire.

Question 16

Why are mandalas wiped away?

Answer 16

As a symbol of the impertinence of life.

Question 17

What do Buddhists think life is like?

Answer 17

A muddy pool with all the water and mud churned up together.

Question 18

What does meditation do to the muddy pool?

Answer 18

Lets the mud sink to the bottom and the water come out on top.

Question 19

What is the opposite to asceticism?

Answer 19

Indulgence

Question 20

Who is the Dalai Lama?

Answer 20

The head monk of Tibetan Buddhism

Question 21

What does Dalai Lama mean?

Answer 21

Ocean of Wisdom

Question 22

How is the Dalai Lama chosen?

Answer 22

Once a suspected Dalai Lama is found several objects are presented to him, some of which used to be owned by the last Dalai Lama. If he picks the correct items, three of the former Dalai Lama’s servants are asked to confirm his identity. If they do, he is confirmed.

Question 23

What is Zen Buddhism?

Answer 23

A form of Buddhism from Japan that focuses on living in the now, rather than reflecting on the past of dreaming of the future.