Quiz #2 Short Responses

Why does Hinduism teach that all existing things are identical with Brahman?

A. Existence is spirit, and spirit cannot be divided

B. Thus, anything that has existence is existence

Why does Hinduism teach that Brahman is impersonal?

A. Personhood is a finite reality, and Brahman is infinite

B. Thus, Brahman is impersonal in the sense that Brahman transcends what “person” means to us

What Hindu principles make possible the doctrine of karma?

A. Brahman is identical with Creation

B. Brahman is justice

C If so, everything that happens to a person is either a reward or punishment for one’s actions

What are the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism?

1. Life entails suffering (duhkha)

2. Suffering is caused by selfish desire (tanha)

3. To overcome duhkha, one must overcome tanha

4. Eightfold path

What are the steps in the Eightfold Path?

View, Intention, Speech, Action, Livelihood, Effort, Mindfulness, Concentration

In terms of becoming Enlightened, what is the primary difference between Theravada and Mahayana Buddhism?

A. Theravada Enlightenment can only be achieved on ones own

B. Mahayana Enlightenment can be achieved with the help of buddhas and their prayers

What is the distinctive doctrine of “Pure Land” Buddhism?

Existence of a “heaven-like” paradise after death and before Nirvana

What is the fundamental principle of Zen Buddhism?

Enlightenment can only be achieved by overcoming rationality