Buddhism: Beliefs and teachings Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is meant by Dhamma (Dharma) in Buddhism?
Dhamma refers to the teachings of the Buddha, the universal law, and the truth of how things are. It is one of the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dhamma, Sangha) and is considered essential for spiritual development.
What is dependent arising (paticcasamuppada)?
It is the idea that all phenomena arise in dependence upon other phenomena; nothing exists independently. Everything is interlinked, illustrating the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara).
What is anicca in Buddhism?
Anicca means impermanence. It teaches that all things are in constant flux and change is inevitable.
What is anatta in Buddhism?
Anatta means ‘no fixed self.’ It denotes the idea that there is no unchanging, permanent self or soul in living beings.
What is dukkha in Buddhism?
Dukkha refers to suffering or unsatisfactoriness, an inherent part of existence due to craving and attachment.
What are the Five Aggregates (skandhas) in Theravada Buddhism?
They are:
1. Form (rupa)
2. Sensation (vedana)
3. Perception (samjna)
4. Mental formations (sankhara)
5. Consciousness (vinnana). Together, these make up a person; none represent a permanent self.
What are sunyata and Buddha-nature in Mahayana Buddhism?
Sunyata means ‘emptiness,’ the idea that all things lack inherent existence. Buddha-nature is the belief that all beings have the potential to become Buddhas.
What is the Arhat ideal in Theravada Buddhism?
An Arhat is someone who has achieved enlightenment and will not be reborn. This is seen as the highest goal in Theravada.
What is the Bodhisattva ideal in Mahayana Buddhism?
A Bodhisattva is someone who seeks enlightenment not just for themselves, but to help all beings attain it. They choose to remain in the cycle of rebirth to assist others.
What is the Pure Land in Buddhism?
The Pure Land is a celestial realm believed to be created by the Buddha Amitabha, where beings can be reborn and more easily attain enlightenment.
What are the significant events in the Buddha’s life?
His birth and life of luxury, the Four Sights (old age, sickness, death, holy man), ascetic life, and Enlightenment under the Bodhi tree.
What are the Four Noble Truths?
- Dukkha – Life involves suffering 2. Samudaya – The cause of suffering is craving and the Three Poisons
- Nirodha – There is an end to suffering
- Magga – The Eightfold Path leads to the end of suffering.
What are the components of the Eightfold Path and Threefold Way?
Ethics (Sila): Right speech, action, livelihood. Meditation (Samadhi): Right effort, mindfulness, concentration. Wisdom (Panna): Right view, intention.
