Buddhism

World Population -approx. 376 million followers Buddhism is the 4 th largest religion in the world.

Buddhism: world distribution

Basic Information: Began in India Branched off and developed from Hinduism Goal of Buddhism is to reach enlightenment (nirvana) points to a way of life that avoids self- indulgence and self-denial. no supreme god or deity—it is neither Polytheistic or Monothesitc Founder is: Siddhartha Gautama (BUDDAH)

founder Siddhartha Gautama, or Buddha which means “enlightened one” lived in the 5th century BC born into the Warrior Caste-led a luxurious lifestyle. Became troubled by the human misery that he saw around him everyday. He believed that desire was the root cause of all suffering Focus is on Peace & Harmony not considered a god by his followers

What is the fundamental cause of all suffering? Desire!  Therefore,  Therefore, extinguish the self, don’t obsess about yourself.

-Major Beliefs of Buddhism- The 1 st major belief is: The Four Noble Truths The 2 nd major belief is: The Eightfold Path The 3 rd belief is: Reincarnation The 4 th belief is Karma:

Eightfold Path Nirvana  Being at one with the ultimate spirit.  Escape from the cycle of rebirth (reincarnation).

There are two main Everyday practices to follow: 1.Live by a moral code: –Do not kill –Do not steal –Do not lie 2.Meditation: –training the mind to empty all of it’s thoughts. When this happens what is important becomes clear

Spiritual leaders Monks Significant leader today: Dalai Lama (Tibetan Buddhism)

The Many images of Buddha Statues of Buddha may include up to 32 symbols. Any # of these symbols can be used on statues. (For example, the Buddha is often shown with a bump on on the top of his head. This is a symbol that he had special talents. He is often seen with a round mark on his forehead, which is his third eye. This is a symbol to show that he could see things ordinary people cannot see. He may be shown with curled hair, which is a symbol that he was a very holy man. Sometimes he has long ears, which is a symbol that he came from an important family, and also that he could hear things that other people could not.

Buddha – 19c Thailand

Buddha’s head : Pakistan Buddha’s head : Pakistan

Review… Who is the founder of Buddhism? What are the 4 Noble Truths? Who is considered “God” in Buddhism?