Buddhist Words

Question 1

Anatta

Answer 1

Belief that there is no fixed self/ no soul ; one of the Three Marks of Existence

Question 2

Anicca

Answer 2

Impermanence. Belief that nothing is permanent ; one of the Three Marks of Existence

Question 3

Arhat

Answer 3

A perfected person. In Theravada Buddhism, this is a term for a person who has become enlightened.

Question 4

Ascetic

Answer 4

A life free from worldly pleasures and involves giving up of material possessions. An ascetic life often has the aim of pursuing religious or spiritual goals.

Question 5

Bodhisattva

Answer 5

In Mahayana Buddhism this is a being destined for enlightenment, who postpones their final escape into Samsara in order to help living beings.

Question 6

Buddha

Answer 6

Historically, the Buddha (Siddhartha Gautama) / An awakened or enlightened person.

Question 7

Buddhahood

Answer 7

Reaching enlightenment

Question 8

Buddha-nature

Answer 8

In Mahayana Buddhism, this refers to the fundamental nature of all beings, which means all beings can become enlightened/ reach Buddhahood.

Question 9

Chanting

Answer 9

Singing or rhythmic repetition of a word, prayer or sound.

Question 10

Compassion (Karuna)

Answer 10

Sympathy and concern for the suffering of others ; a key part of Buddhist ethics.