1. Buddhism
Religions of South Asia

2. The essence of Buddhism
It is the “middle way of wisdom and compassion
2500 year old tradition
The 3 jewels of Buddhism:
Buddha – the teacher
Dharma – the teachings
Sangha – the community

3. Siddhartha Gautama Born in Northeast India (Nepal)
Raised in great luxury.
At 29 he rejected his luxurious life because he wanted to seek enlightenment and the source of suffering.
Reached nirvana by sitting in meditation.
Became “The Enlightened One” at age 35.

4. The fundamental cause of all suffering is DESIRE.
To change this, you should not obsess over yourself.

5. The Four Noble Truths 1. Dukkha = There is suffering in the world.
The Buddha found this out when he was young and experienced suffering and death in others.

6. 2. Tanha = The cause of suffering is desire.

7. 3. Nirvana = “extinction” – get rid of desire.

8. 4. To reach nirvana, one must follow the Eightfold Path.

9. The Eightfold Path
1. Right understanding – understand the 4 Noble Truths
2. Right Thought – think kindly of others
3. Right speech – speaking kindly
4. Right Action – act kindly
5. Right Work – have work that doesn’t hurt others
6. Right Effort – Cleanse your mind
7. Right Mindfulness – Be aware of what you are doing
8. Right Concentration – During meditation

10. If you follow the Eightfold Path, you will reach nirvana.
Nirvana is the union with ultimate spiritual reality and escape from the cycle of rebirth.