Buddhism – Dhamma & Key Beliefs

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts and beliefs in Buddhism, including different schools, teachings, and important terms.

Theravada Buddhism

The oldest school of Buddhism that aims to become an arhat through meditation and wisdom.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism focused on the bodhisattva ideal, seeking enlightenment for all beings.

Zen Buddhism

A form of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation (zazen) and direct experience to reach enlightenment.

Pure Land Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism based on faith in Amitabha Buddha for rebirth in the Pure Land.

Pali Canon

The oldest Buddhist scriptures written in Pali, used by Theravada Buddhists.

Mahayana texts

Later written texts in Sanskrit that include the Lotus and Heart Sutras, teaching sunyata and bodhisattvas.

Three Jewels

The three fundamental aspects of Buddhism: Buddha (teacher), Dhamma (teachings), Sangha (community).

Dependent arising

The concept that everything depends on causes; ending craving ends rebirth (samsara).

Three Marks of Existence

The three characteristics of existence: Anicca (impermanence), Dukkha (suffering), Anatta (no fixed self).

Three marks of existence

Three types include ordinary pain, suffering from change, and suffering from attachment.

Five Aggregates (Skandhas)

Components constituting a person: Form (body), Sensation (feelings), Perception (recognition), Mental formations (thoughts), Consciousness (awareness).

Sunyata

Meaning emptiness; the concept that everything is interdependent, without a fixed self.

Theravada belief about enlightenment

Emphasises achieving nibbana through personal effort, ultimately becoming an arhat.

Mahayana belief about enlightenment

Aims to become a bodhisattva, helping others achieve enlightenment first.

Pure Land belief about enlightenment

Teaches that faith in Amitabha can lead to rebirth in the Pure Land where enlightenment is easier.

Arhat

A person who has achieved enlightenment and escaped from samsara.

Bodhisattva

A compassionate being who delays their own enlightenment to assist others.