Comparative Religions: Buddhism

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to Buddhism as discussed in the comparative religions lecture.

Buddhism

A very old religion that dominates large portions of Asia and has grown to become an international religion.

Siddhartha Gautama

The historical Buddha, born a prince who became a wandering monk in search of spiritual enlightenment.

Four Passing Sights

The four sights that Siddhartha witnessed which included an old man, a sick man, a corpse, and a wandering holy man.

Great Going Forth

The event where Siddhartha left his palace and his princely life to seek enlightenment.

Bodhi Tree

The tree under which Siddhartha attained enlightenment.

Awakening (Bodhi)

The profound understanding Siddhartha achieved, ending his suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

Three Jewels

The core principles of Buddhism: Buddha (the ideal), Dharma (teachings), and Sangha (community).

Four Noble Truths

The central teachings of Buddhism addressing the nature of suffering and the path to overcoming it.

Nirvana

The ultimate goal of Buddhism; liberation from suffering and the cycle of rebirth.

Ahimsa

The principle of non-violence and doing no harm to any living being.

Theravada

The oldest and most conservative branch of Buddhism, primarily prevalent in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

Mahayana

A major branch of Buddhism that emphasizes the bodhisattva path and compassion for all beings.

Vajrayana

A form of tantric Buddhism that emerged in India, emphasizing rituals and meditation for enlightenment.

Bodhicitta

The aspiration for enlightenment for oneself and all sentient beings, central to Mahayana practice.

Tantra

A set of techniques in Vajrayana Buddhism that aim to offer a path to enlightenment through ritual and meditation.

Compassion

A core value in Buddhism, especially emphasized in Mahayana, involving empathy and the desire to alleviate suffering.

Rebirth

The Buddhist belief that individuals are reborn in different forms based on their karma.

Karma

The principle of cause and effect in Buddhism, where actions lead to future consequences.