World Religions: Buddhism

Who was Siddhartha Gautama before he became Buddha?

He was born into a position of power, lived a life of luxury, got married, and had a son.

What lifestyle changes did Siddhartha Gautama make to seek enlightenment?

He gave up his lavish lifestyle, participated in physical fasting, and adopted the middle way.

What are the Four Passing Sights that Siddhartha encountered?

Old man, diseased man, a corpse, and a religious ascetic.

What do the first three Passing Sights represent?

They represent suffering.

What do the religious ascetic in the Passing Sights represent?

The overcoming of suffering.

How does Buddhism's view of the self differ from Hinduism?

Buddhism rejects the existence of a permanent self (anatman) while Hinduism believes in atman and Brahman.

What does Anicca mean in Buddhism?

Anicca refers to impermanence; existence is always changing.

What does Anatta signify in Buddhist teachings?

Anatta signifies non-self; there is no permanent, unchanging entity called the 'self' or 'soul'.

What is Dukkha in Buddhism?

Dukkha signifies suffering, which is the result of Anicca and Anatta.

What is the core idea of reincarnation in Buddhism?

Reincarnation is seen as a transference of energy, not of an eternal self.

What are the Four Noble Truths in Buddhism?

1. To live is to experience suffering, 2. Suffering is caused by desire, 3. Suffering can cease, 4. The solution is the Eightfold Path.

What is the purpose of the Eightfold Path?

It serves as a guide for meditation and ongoing practices to achieve enlightenment.

What does the first precept of Buddhism entail?

It involves abstaining from taking a life.

What is Nirvana in Buddhism?

Nirvana is the cessation of suffering; it is impossible to fully describe and can only be understood through experience.

What is the key difference between Rinzai Zen and Soto Zen?

Rinzai Zen emphasizes koan practice for sudden enlightenment, while Soto Zen focuses on 'just sitting' meditation.