Buddhism

Buddhism in Founding Continent of India Afghanistan Pakistan India

Religions of South Asia

What is Buddhism? Founded in Northern India. Modern day Nepal Buddhism is non-theistic Buddhism is not a belief system. It is based on the teachings of the “Budda” It is about trying to reach or achieve self enlightenment What's called Buddhism is the “process by which the truths of the doctrines may be realized for oneself.” Westerners often argue whether Buddhism is a philosophy or a religion.

Siddhartha Gautama aka Buddha  Born in India  Raised in great luxury to be a king.  At 29 he rejected his luxurious life to seek enlightenment and the source of suffering.  Lived a strict, life for 6 yrs.  Rejecting this extreme, sat in meditation, and found nirvana.  Became “The Enlightened One,” at 35.

Scriptures Dhrama-The teachings of Buddha Buddha refused to answer direct questions, such as "how did everything begin?" or ?" or “where did we come from?” He would say the question was irrelevant to realizing enlightenment.

Spiritual Laws The foundation of Buddhism is the Four Noble Truths. These are the basic facts about life. The goal is to reach enlightenment also known as Nirvana. To reach Nirvana one must follow the Eightfold path.

Four Noble Truths 1. Dukkha-There is suffering in the world. To live is to suffer. (Answers the question Why do we live?) 2. Tanha-The cause of suffering is self-centered (selfish) desire and attachments (possessions and people). (Answers the question Why do we suffer?)

Four Noble Truths 3. The solution is to eliminate desire and attachments. (Answers the question How do we end suffering?) 4. To reach nirvana, one must follow the Eightfold Path. (Answers the question How do we reach enlightenment (peace)?)

1. Right View or Right Understanding-insight into the true nature of reality. 2. Right Intention-the unselfish desire to realize enlightenment. 3. Right Speech-using speech compassionately. 4. Right Action-ethical conduct; manifesting compassion. 5. Right Livelihood-making a living through ethical and non- harmful means. 6. Right Effort-cultivating wholesome qualities; releasing unwholesome qualities. 7. Right Mindfulness-whole body-and-mind awareness. 8. Right Concentration-meditation or some other dedicated, concentrated practice.

Eightfold Path Nirvana  The union with the ultimate spiritual reality  Escape from the cycle of rebirth (reincarnation)

Denominations There are many different denominations but the main three are: 1. Theravada Buddhism 2. Mahayana Buddhism 3. Tibetan Buddhism

Theravada Buddhism

Place of Worship Buddhist temple

Symbol The Eight Spoked Wheel Symbolizes the Eight-fold Path

Dalai Lama Leader of the Tibetan Buddhist Monks

Religions in the World

Buddhism in America

Distribution of Buddhism Centers in U.S

The essence of Buddhism  The “middle way of wisdom and compassion.”  2,500 year old tradition.  The 3 jewels of Buddhism:  Buddha, the teacher.  Dharma, the teachings.  Sangha, the community.