Homework I-4 due Wednesday Test on India Friday (review sheet can be completed for extra credit) Current events article due Tuesday, October 10.

Aim #5: What are the key beliefs of Buddhism? Do Now: Based on what we have learned in our last few lessons, do you think the development of the caste system was ultimately a positive or negative development for India? Why?

I. Siddhartha Gautama (560 B.C.-480 B.C.) A rich Hindu prince who lived in North India/Nepal 2. Lived in luxury while his family hid all suffering from him 3. When he finally saw illness, old age and death, he left home to find enlightenment.

I. Siddhartha Gautama (560 B.C.-480 B.C.) 4. He finally reached enlightenment as to the true meaning of life while meditating under a bodhi tree. 5. He then dubbed himself the “Buddha” or Awakened One. He began to spread his teachings throughout India

II. Teachings of Buddhism The Four Noble Truths: 1. Life is full of suffering 2. Suffering is caused by desire 3. The way to end suffering is to end desire for selfish goals 4. Following the Eightfold Path will help people overcome desire. Then you achieve Nirvana (goal of the religion = Union with the universe and release from the cycle of death and rebirth).

Eightfold Path Activity Read over the steps that Buddhists are expected to follow to achieve enlightenment on the Eightfold Path. Then, on the second page of handout, write one thing that YOU could do to carry out this step in your daily life.