Buddhism

Three Jewels

Central teachings of Buddhism - Buddha, Dharma, Sangha.

Buddha

Figure not worshipped as a god, founder of Buddhism, achieved enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.

Dharma

Teachings of Buddha, path to enlightenment and liberation from suffering.

Sangha

Importance of community in Buddhism, preserving and practicing the teachings of Buddha.

Samsara

Cycle of reincarnation in Buddhism, influenced by Karma and Dharma teachings.

Nirvana

State of complete peace and nothingness, goal of achieving enlightenment in Buddhism.

Four Noble Truths

Foundation of Buddhist teachings - life is suffering, caused by desire, can cease, solution is the Noble Eightfold Path.

Noble Eightfold Path

Eight principles to achieve enlightenment in Buddhism, including Right View, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right Livelihood, Right Effort, Right Mindfulness, Right Concentration.

Five Precepts

Fundamental ethical guidelines for all Buddhists, including not taking life, not stealing, not engaging in sexual misconduct, not lying, not consuming intoxicants.

Thervada

Oldest form of Buddhism, emphasizes individual enlightenment, present in Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand.

Mahayana

Focuses on enlightenment for all beings, includes Bodhisattvas, present in China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan.

Vajrayana

Common in Tibet, focuses on harnessing life energies for enlightenment, led by the Dalai Lama.

Mandalas

Geometric shapes used in meditation and prayer in Buddhism.

Mantra

Repeated phrase used in meditation, e.g., Om.

Mudra

Hand movements used in prayer and meditation in Buddhism.

Sangha

Community of Buddhist practitioners preserving and teaching the Dharma.

Vesak

Buddhist festival celebrating the birth of Buddha, involves offerings and decorations in temples.

Dalai Lama

Spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists, promotes kindness, compassion, and internal strength.

Desmond Tutu

Anglican priest from South Africa, advocate against Apartheid, led Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Yama

Connects to Hinduism, controls Samsara and the heavenly realm in Buddhist belief.