Chapter 6 Section 3 Origins of Buddhism

Siddhartha Gautama’s Search for Wisdom In the late 500’s BC, a restless young man, dissatisfied with the teachings of Hinduism, began to ask questions about life and religious matters. In time, he found answers. These answers attracted many followers, and his ideas became the foundation of a major religion in India.

Siddhartha was born 563 BC in northern India near the Himalayas Siddhartha was born 563 BC in northern India near the Himalayas. He was a prince who grew up surrounded in luxury. When he left his sheltered palace for the first time as a young man, he saw human suffering all around him. Before the age of 30, he left his home and family to search for the meaning of human life. Siddhartha sees death for the 1st time

The Buddha Finds Enlightenment Siddhartha wandered for many years searching for answers. He wanted to free his mind from daily concerns. For a while he didn’t wash himself. He also started fasting. He devoted much of his time to meditation. He spent six years wandering throughout India. He eventually came to a place near the town of Gaya, near the Ganges River. There he sat under a tree and meditated for seven weeks. The Buddha Finds Enlightenment

Wanting what we like but do not have. He realized that human suffering comes from three things: Wanting what we like but do not have. Wanting to keep what we like and already have. Not wanting what we dislike but have. Siddhartha spent seven more weeks meditating under the “Tree of Wisdom”. He was about 35 years old when he found “enlightenment”. He then would be called Buddha, or the “Enlightened One”. He spent the rest of his life traveling across India teaching people his ideas. He was around 80 years old when he died. Mahabodhi Tree where Siddhartha found enlightenment

What is Buddhism? Buddha was raised a Hindu so many of his teachings reflect Hindu ideas. He believed that people should act morally and treat each others well. *At the heart of the Buddha’s teachings are four guiding principals, “The Four Noble Truths”.*

The Four Noble Truths

To free your soul from suffering and achieve Nirvana you will need to follow the “Eightfold Path”. Buddha believed that this path is the “middle way” between wanting everything and doing completely without… everything in moderation.

What is Nirvana? (look in your book) Write two paragraphs describing what you think this picture means in relationship to the teachings of Buddha. An artist’s interpretation of Nirvana To reach Nirvana you must free your soul from suffering. If you do this you will be free from further reincarnation. Hint: Follow the path from the bottom, right corner. Notice the change in color of the elephant, the size of the fire, and the diminishing black creature.

What does “the Middle Way” mean?? Important Concept!!! Buddha believed that people should overcome their desire for material goods. However, they should be reasonable. Example: Girls… you would keep some of your dresses but give some of them away. Boys… you would keep some of your XBOX games but give some of them away.

True or False????? *Buddha says, “Contentment comes from gaining what you want.”*

Buddha was opposed to the caste system. Because of this belief, many people in the lower classes supported Buddha’s teachings. Important Concept!!!

Spread of Buddhism *What are missionaries?* (book) Missionary Priest in Early Americas Buddhist monk and missionary, Dali Lama Missionary In India Mother Teresa, nun and missionary

The Spread of Buddhism

Summary Buddhism, one of India’s major religions, grew more popular once it was adopted by rulers of India’s great empires. On a small piece of paper, describe this picture with one word. Collect and read to class.