HIST 361 - Buddhism (v,v)

Overview of Buddhism

Emerged around the 5th to 6th centuries B.C. in Magadha, Northern India.
Buddha ("the Enlightened One") was born Siddhartha Gautama. Conventional dates for his life: 563 B.C. - 483 B.C.
Siddhartha grew up as a privileged prince in an oligarchic republic (the Shakyas); later left home to seek enlightenment after witnessing suffering.
Buddhism spread internationally and created a spiritual revolution across Asia unlike Jainism, which remained localized in India.

Emerged alongside other heterodox movements challenging Vedic authority.
Key concepts like Karma, Dharma, Nirvana, and Atman were redefined during this period.

Siddhartha's father, King Shudhodana, shielded him from suffering.
Siddhartha's transformative experiences:
- Sightings of an old man, sick man, corpse, and an ascetic during excursions out of the palace.

At age 29, Siddhartha left his palace in search of enlightenment, leaving his family behind.
This act is referred to as the "Great Departure."

Siddhartha practiced extreme asceticism for six years; realized it was unfulfilling.
Gained enlightenment after meditating under the Bodhi tree near Gaya.
- Faced temptations from Mara but achieved Nirvana after 49 days of meditation.
- Initially hesitated to teach but eventually preached the "Middle Way"—avoiding extremes of indulgence and asceticism.

Duhkha - Life involves suffering.
Tanha - Suffering arises from craving and attachment.
Nirvana - There is a way to end suffering (achieving liberation).
Noble Eightfold Path - Prescribes the means to achieve Nirvana:
- Right Understanding
- Right Intent
- Right Speech
- Right Action
- Right Livelihood
- Right Effort
- Right Mindfulness
- Right Concentration

Establishment of the monastic community (Sangha).
Inclusiveness of both men and women in monastic life.
Emphasis on ethical conduct and mental discipline through the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.