buddhism

world religions study guide

Mantra

Resonating chants used especially in Vajrayana Buddhism

Bodhi

tree of enlightenment

Mendicants

beggars who taught siddhartha how to meditate and fast

Arhat

a saint or one who has become enlightened

Mahayana

Form of buddhism that is more like religion

Dukkha

Dissatisfaction

The Middle Way

A way to salvation without following any extremes

Anatta

”There is not self”

Sutras

Collection of teachings the Buddha wrote down

Mandala

Patterned icons that visually excite and are used in Vajrayana Buddhism 

Dharma

The teachings of buddha

Vajrayana

Form of buddhism that is said to focus on achieving enlightenment in the here and now

Anicca

Impermanence

Ascetic

Person who has let go of attachments

Karma

The force that determines the nature of one’s rebirth

Bodhisattva

A buddha in the making; ideal type for Mahayana buddhists

Theravada

Buddhist tradition that focuses on the teachings of the Buddha and meditation

Mudra

choreographed hand movements used in vajrayana buddhist rituals

Buddha

an awakened one

Nirodha

to stop wanting, let go of desires

Sangha

the buddhis community of monks, nuns, and laity

Tanha

selfish desire; the second noble truth

Nirvana

the state of eternal bliss that is ultimate salvation