alt Teachings of buddhism

What is the Dhamma (Dharma)?

The teachings of the Buddha and the universal law that explains how reality works.

Why is the Dhamma important for Buddhists?

It guides Buddhists on how to overcome suffering and achieve enlightenment.

What is dependent arising (paticcasamuppada)?

The belief that everything exists because of conditions and nothing exists independently.

How does dependent arising influence Buddhists?

It encourages compassion and responsibility because all beings are interconnected.

What are the Three Marks of Existence?

Anicca (impermanence), Anatta (no fixed self), Dukkha (suffering).

What does anicca mean?

Everything is impermanent and constantly changing.

What does anatta mean?

There is no permanent, fixed self or soul.

What does dukkha mean?

Life involves suffering and dissatisfaction.

How does belief in anicca reduce suffering?

Buddhists become less attached to things that will inevitably change.

Where was Siddhartha Gautama born?

Lumbini, into a wealthy and noble family.

What were the Four Sights?

An old man, a sick man, a dead man, and a holy man.

Why were the Four Sights important?

They showed Siddhartha that life involves suffering and impermanence.

What is an ascetic life?

A life of extreme self-discipline and avoidance of pleasure.

Why did the Buddha reject asceticism?

He realised it did not lead to enlightenment.

What is the Middle Way?

A balanced path between luxury and extreme self-denial.

Where did the Buddha become enlightened?

Under the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya.

What did the Buddha realise at enlightenment?

The Four Noble Truths and the nature of suffering.

Why is the Buddha’s enlightenment important today?

It forms the basis of all Buddhist teachings and practice.

What is the First Noble Truth?

Life involves suffering (dukkha).

What is the Second Noble Truth?

Suffering is caused by craving (tanha).

What is the Third Noble Truth?

Suffering can end (nirodha / nirvana).

What is the Fourth Noble Truth?

The Eightfold Path leads to the end of suffering.

What are the three parts of the Eightfold Path?

Wisdom (panna), Morality (sila), Meditation (samadhi).

What is Right View?

Understanding the Dhamma and reality as it truly is.

What is Right Action?

Acting in ways that do not harm others.

Why is meditation important in Buddhism?

It develops wisdom and leads towards enlightenment.

What is Theravada Buddhism?

The oldest form of Buddhism, focusing on monastic life and Arhats.

What is an Arhat?

A perfected person who has achieved enlightenment and will not be reborn.

What is Mahayana Buddhism?

A tradition that focuses on helping all beings achieve enlightenment.

What is a Bodhisattva?

Someone who delays enlightenment in order to help others.

Who is Amitabha Buddha?

A Buddha who created the Pure Land.

What is the aim of Pure Land Buddhism?

To be reborn in the Pure Land and achieve enlightenment there.

What is kamma (karma)?

The law that actions have consequences.

What are the Three Poisons?

Ignorance, greed, hatred.

What is metta?

Loving kindness towards all beings.

What is karuna?

Compassion and concern for others’ suffering.

What is the First Moral Precept?

Do not take life.

Why do Buddhists follow the Five Precepts?

To reduce suffering and generate good kamma.

What is puja?

Buddhist worship involving meditation, chanting and offerings.

Why are Buddha rupas important?

They inspire Buddhists and remind them of enlightenment qualities.

What is Wesak?

A festival celebrating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and death.

What is Parinirvana Day?

A Mahayana festival marking the Buddha’s final nirvana.