Buddhism Vocabulary Review

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Buddhism.

Siddhartha Gautama

The founder of Buddhism, known as 'The Buddha', who lived from 566 to 486 BCE.

Nirvana

The ultimate goal in Buddhism, representing release from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth; it means 'to extinguish'.

Maya

A term meaning 'illusion'; refers to the notion that all things are impermanent and thus not permanent.

Sangha

The Buddhist community, consisting of monks, nuns, and lay followers.

The Four Noble Truths

The foundational principles of Buddhism that describe the nature of suffering and the path to alleviate it.

The Eightfold Path

The Buddhist guide to ethical and mental development with the goal of freeing individuals from attachments and delusions.

Theravada Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that emphasizes monastic life and is primarily practiced in Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that allows anyone to achieve nirvana in this life and emphasizes the importance of compassion.

Bodhisattva

In Mahayana Buddhism, a person who has attained enlightenment but chooses to remain in the cycle of rebirth to help others.

Zen Buddhism

A school of Mahayana Buddhism centered on meditation and intuitive understanding, emphasizing direct experience over theoretical knowledge.

Koan

A paradoxical statement or question used in Zen practice to provoke deep thought and insight.

Ahimsa

The principle of nonviolence in Buddhism, advocating for kindness and respect for all living things.

Ashoka

A significant emperor of the Mauryan Empire who promoted Buddhism and established many Buddhist monuments and temples.