Syllabus Dot Points

Question 1

The nature and role of shared values and understanding within belief systems and ideologies and how this creates meaning, purpose and an identity for an individual and group

Answer 1

Role of Values:
Belief systems act as a framework of values, customs and beliefs an individual or community will internalise to become part of their identity. This creates identity for individuals as it forms their interactions at a micro to a macro level.
Role of Environments:
Many bs/i are a response to the physical world in which people live.
Role of Time:
Belief systems can provide meaning and purpose for individuals’ lives as they ‘work towards something’ as well as creating a form of rule and guides to follow in life

Question 2

How bs/i express values and beliefs and ways of perceiving the world at the micro, meso and macro levels

Answer 2

Rituals: A ritual is the natural expression of the belief as it is part of the customs that express our beliefs, ideologies and worldviews. Observing rituals can develop cross-cultural sensitivity.
Stories: Stories can capture the beliefs and philosophy of a belief system

Question 3

(Examples) The nature and role of shared values and understanding within belief systems and ideologies and how this creates meaning, purpose and an identity for an individual and group

Answer 3

Buddhism:
Provides a purpose to individuals to reach enlightenment as well as a guide to follow ‘The Noble Eightfold Path’ and the different precepts to form their identity.
Indigenous peoples:
Many indigenous belief systems are shaped around their land. (totems)
Christianity:
Life on earth is temporary, hell and heaven is eternal

Question 4

(Examples) How bs/i express values and beliefs and ways of perceiving the world at the micro, meso and macro levels

Answer 4

‘Rites of Passage’ in Indigenous belief systems as well as the ‘life release’ rituals in Buddhism. Stories include the story of Buddha and how he reached enlightenment, which serves as the main guide to understanding the philosophy of buddhism.

Question 5

the ideology of Environmentalism at the micro level

Answer 5

These would affect a follower at a micro level by changing their personal beliefs, habits and activities. For example a follower of environmentalism may adopt more sustainable living practices such as recycling plastic as they now hold the belief that they must protect the environment and other living things and plastic would harm those things.

Question 6

The ideology of environmentalism at the meso level

Answer 6

It affects meso level groups such as work offices, schools and communities if a member of these groups with substantial influence or if majority of the members believe in this ideology of environmentalism and thus want to change an aspect of their meso level group to ensure they keep in line with their values and beliefs. For example if the boss of a restaurant conformed to environmentalism then he may take actions to remove plastic straws, single use products and produce more environmentally friendly dishes affecting the meso level community that works and eats at the restaurant in the products they can buy and habits they have taken.

Question 7

The ideology of environmentalism at the macro level.

Answer 7

Environmentalism can also impact the world at a macro scale by creating mass movements where a large enough collection of people believe in the values of environmentalism and decide to take action against those who are damaging the values and goals of the group i.e. mining corporations or the conservative governments. This has been seen through mass climate protests or more targeted ones like #StopAdani.

Question 8

(Examples) The nature and role of hierarchy and internal power structures within belief systems and ideologies

Answer 8

The Roman Catholic Form of Christianity:
Pope
Cardinals
Archbishops
Bishops
Parish Priest
Priest
Example of Brazilian girl and abortion.

Question 9

The ideology of environmentalism at the macro level.

Answer 9

Environmentalism can also impact the world at a macro scale by creating mass movements where a large enough collection of people believe in the values of environmentalism and decide to take action against those who are damaging the values and goals of the group i.e. mining corporations or the conservative governments. This has been seen through mass climate protests or more targeted ones like #stopadani

Question 10

The nature and role of hierarchy and internal power structures within belief systems and ideologies

Answer 10

Hierarchy and structure is important because:
It is easier to worship or follow under the teaching of a tangible being (easier to comprehend, gives religion a physical place and sense of reality on earth)
Without structure, ideologies wouldn’t be effective or applicable to society
Structure is essential to functionalism and order, which is the basis of ideologies and religion

Question 11

(Example) The nature and role of hierarchy and internal power structures within belief systems and ideologies

Answer 11

The Roman Catholic Form of Christianity:
Pope
Cardinals
Archbishops
Bishops
Parish Priest
Priest

Question 12

The process of secularisation in the development and extent of belief systems and ideologies within Australia

Answer 12

Secularisation is a process whereby religion loses its influence over the various spheres of social life. Secular society has emerged from the modernisation process whereby the rise of scientific knowledge and technological advancements have shaped ideas about spiritual thinking in society.
It is the diversification of bs away from a predominant religion not loss of religion

Sec:
Creation of plural thinking
Scientific rationalisation
Technological advancements

Beliefs
Globalisation: easter monday, christmas holidays
Religion is more practical

Question 13

(Examples) The process of secularisation in the development and extent of belief systems and ideologies within Australia (2018)

Answer 13

Australia used to be predominantly christian.
The process of globalisation and mass immigration (vietnamese) introduced new ideas and belief systems.
No religion has grown from 0.8% to 30.1% over 50 years to 2016.
Christianity has diminished from 88.2% to 52.1% according to Census data.

Question 14

The relationship between Buddhism’s historical development and underlying principles

Answer 14

HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT
Began in India 2500 years ago and has since become one of the world’s most significant belief systems from a micro to a macro level.

The legend of its historical development has become key to its underlying principles:

Siddharta Gautama (Buddha) grew up in North India in 500BC in a place of opulence. However, despite having ‘everything’ he felt unhappy so he left and pursued the ‘ascetic life’ (devoid of material items). The ascetic life was full of suffering so he found the ‘middle way’ to
Enlightenment, which became Buddhism.

UNDERLYING PRINCIPLES
Buddhism is a self-contained system providing certainty for discretion for all followers through clear philosophies that binds together the elements of the system.
Buddhist philosophy is captured in the Three Jewels:
Buddha
Buddhist Doctrine (Dharma)
Society of monks/nuns (Sangha)
Key Values of Buddhism:
Peace and kindness
Individual enlightenment not collective
No material possession (avoid
Suffering)

Question 15

What are the four noble truths?

Answer 15

These are the core truths that must be accepted by Buddhists to reach Nirvana
Dukkha: Life is suffering
Samudaya: Attachment is the cause of suffering.
Nirodha: Overcoming attachment ends suffering.
Magga: To end suffering one must follow the eightfold path of

Question 16

What is the noble eightfold path?

Answer 16

The Wheel of Life. These are the rules to reach Nirvana.
Views, resolve, conduct, livelihood, efforts, mindfulness, concentration

Question 17

What are the five precepts of Buddhism?

Answer 17

Unlike the Ten Commandments the Five Precepts are recommendations not commandments.
Do not kill/harm
Do not steal
Do not lie
Do not misuse sex
Do not consume alcohol or drugs

Question 18

What is nirvana in Buddhism?

Answer 18

Nirvana is a stage of enlightenment, where there is a sense of ultimate peace and fulfilment as a human being. This is the goal of buddhists

Question 19

The beliefs and values expressed in Buddhism and the impact on personal identity

Answer 19

Sense of belonging to the belief system (membership)
Places responsibility of developing meaning onto the individual (Eight Fold Path is a recommendation not a commandment > This suits modern society, which honours individualism and thus self-development and non-conformity)
Creates purpose for individuals (answers life’s questions to suffering)
Promotes anti-materialism and consumerism

Highly personalised and adaptable religoin

Question 20

Buddhist beliefs and values expressed and the impact on collective identity

Answer 20

Breaks down social structures and relationship barriers by preaching no attachment
Community adheres to a similar life and rules
Value peace hence less collective conflict
Buddha is a teacher rather than a god hence there is a less linear hierarchy
BS conflicts with capitalist society

Must be noted:
Buddhism does not focus on collective identity it is about individual enlightenment

Question 21

The nature and extent of adherents (different types) of Buddhism traditionally

Answer 21

Buddhism was initially spread orally and thus different interpretations of the belief system developed into separate ‘strands’ of Buddhism. The two key ‘strands’ that developed were Mahayana and Theravada, and overtime as globalisation spreads Buddhism worldwide ‘Western Strands’ of Buddhism are developing. (This is like Christianity having protestant and catholic)

Question 22

The Buddhist adherent of “Theravada”

Answer 22

The oldest and most conservative forms of Buddhism. They adhere to the oldest surviving recorded sayings of the Buddha (Pali Canon). The aim is to become a fully awakened being through the Noble eightfold path

Question 23

The Buddhist adherent of “Mahayana”

Answer 23

Mahayana Buddhism is the most popular branch of Buddhism. They interpret the Buddha as a transcendent figure who all could aspire to become. The aim of Mahayana is to help anyone to become a bodhisattva and then for the bodhisattvas to work to help others achieve freedom from suffering.

Question 24

The Buddhism adherent of “western Buddhism” or Zen Buddhism

Answer 24

Due to processes of globalisation and technology Buddhism is being increasingly accepted in Western countries. Unlike in Asia, where Buddhists follow their ‘strand’ of Buddhism, Western Buddhist will embrace all teachings. (50 million Buddhists in the west)
Demographically Western Buddhism appeals more to whites and to the middle and upper-middle classes as well as those who are politically left.

It is however difficult for Western Buddhism to strictly f

Question 25

Traditional and cultural LOCATIONS in Buddhism

Answer 25

Bodh Gaya The Bodh Gaya is the place of enlightenment for Buddha in India. It is a site of pilgrimage for Buddhist followers, which enhances their connection to the values and beliefs of the religion. Lumbini Buddha’s place of Birth in India Sranath Where he gave his first teaching Kusinara Where Buddha died Bodhi Tree The Buddhist tree is a sacred fig under which the Buddha attained enlightenment in India

Question 26

Traditional and cultural TEXTS in Buddhism

Answer 26

Pali Canon Three Baskets of: 1. The Sutra: Sayings of Buddha 2. The Vinaya: Discipline of the Sangha 3. Adhidharma: Creeds based on essential teachings

Question 27

The role of Symbols in Buddhism

Answer 27

Buddha The most important and enduring symbol is the Buddha himself. The symbol of the Buddha has changed overtime due to the influence of early globalisation. Alexander the Great spread the artistic greek sculpture influence across Asia, transforming the symbol of Buddha, which traditionally was displayed as inanimate objects such as a hand or foot, into a more western human form. Aspects of the meditating Buddha are important, the position of his hands represent enlightenment. Wheel of Dharma The Eight spoked wheel represents the eightfold path, symbolising and teaching the knowledge of Buddha Mandala Represents eternal harmony and can be part of meditation rituals. Lotus represents purity and enlightenment, the ultimate goal

Question 28

The role of rituals/customs in Buddhism

Answer 28

Sand Mandalas Tibetan Buddhist sand mandalas are meticulously created then destroyed as a ritual that practices Buddha’s Four Noble Truths. The third Noble Truth ‘Nirodha’ states that Nirvana can be achieved by overcoming attachment as this reduces suffering. Hence, the ritual of destroying sand mandalas or using them as part of meditation honours Buddha’s path to enlightenment Life release a traditional ritual that was performed to create good karma through purchasing an animal that would otherwise be killed and releasing them back into the wild. It followed the first Buddhist precept “do no harm”

Question 29

The buddhist custom of SAND MANDALAS and their influence on commodification and technology

Answer 29

In a commercialised society mandalas have been commodified, being bought and sold on mass, conflating Buddhism with consumerism and contracting Buddha’s preaching to “never be controlled by money.” Nonetheless, even in a consumerist context they are still recommended as methods of meditation continuing their intrinsic purpose

Question 30

the Buddhist custom of LIFE RELEASES and their influence on commodification and technology

Answer 30

Life releases have evolved from an occasional event to a commercial activity that can generate profits, with one Buddhist group ‘The Guangdong Fangzheng Association’ claiming to have released over 100 million animals since 1989. This contradicts the principle of the ritual, which is to create good karma through following the first precept

Question 31

Buddhism and its influences on technology

Answer 31

There are now many apps that provide Buddhists with mediation quotes such as ‘Calm’. This alters Buddhism to suit the western world promoting accessibility and modernising Buddhism. However, it contradicts the second Noble Truth, which argues that we must remove worldly possessions

Question 32

The importance of myths and stories in Buddhism

Answer 32

Myths and stories play significant roles in promoting continuity in Buddhism. Myths are traditional stories that serve as a foundation for the morals, values and rules of religion by creating a framework that explains the origins of cultural practices and establishes a worldview of adherents.

Question 33

What is the most eminent Buddhist myth?

Answer 33

The most eminent Buddhist myth is the story of how Buddha became enlightened - he left his royal status and materialistic life in search of a middle ground between wealth and asceticism and, under the Bodhi tree, awakened and reached enlightenment.

Question 34

How is continuity achieved through Buddhist storytelling?

Answer 34

Continuity is promoted as the story underpins the Buddhist belief system and perpetuates the significance of the religion’s foundation. It explains the origins of Buddhism, the processes of enlightenment and the meditation ritual, while establishing a perspective and collective identity for adherents.

Question 35

What are the important places to all Buddhists? (Every adherent)

Answer 35

Lumbini Bodh Gaya Sranath Kusinara

Question 36

What do places of pilgrimage mean?

Answer 36

A place for shared identity

Question 37

Where is Lumbini?

Answer 37

Modern day Nepal

Question 38

What is the significance of Lumbini?

Answer 38

Birth place of the Buddha, which was at the time the Shakya dynasty

Question 39

Further archaeology in Lumbini has revealed layered of temples built on top of each other. What does this suggest?

Answer 39

Long standing history of worship at this site for the Buddhist community

Question 40

What is the significance of the Bodh Gaya?

Answer 40

The place where Buddha reached enlightenment

Question 41

What is the significance of Sarnath (location)?

Answer 41

After attaining enlightenment, the Buddha went to the Sanarth. It is one of the most holy sites as in this place the stream of the Buddha’s teaching first flowed.

Question 42

What is the significance of the Kusinara? (Location)

Answer 42

Buddha’s place of death. Temple was built on the site many years later

Question 43

To which adherent of Buddhism is Tibet relevant?

Answer 43

Lhasa Buddhism

Question 45

What was the religion in Tibet before Lhasa Buddhism?

Answer 45

Bon, the indigenous religion, which focused on Gods and Goddesses. Buddhism morphed with Bon to form Lhasa

Question 46

To what adherent of Buddhism is Cambodia significant?

Answer 46

Theravada Buddhists

Question 47

What religion did the Angkor Wat (Cambodia) temple belong to originally?

Answer 47

Hinduism

Question 49

Which sacred texts are important to all adherents of Buddhism?

Answer 49

Pali Canon is the text which has three parts… Sutra - sayings of Buddha Vinaya Abhidharma

Question 50

What is the Pali Cannon?

Answer 50

The earliest collection of Buddhist writings called the Tipitaka. Many commentaries have been added over the years. Before this, Buddhism was passed down via word of mouth. Tripitaka means “three baskets”, form the way in which is was originally recorded: the text was written on long narrow leaves which were sewn at the edges

Question 51

Discourses in the Sutra of Pali Cannon

Answer 51

Sermons, short stories and parables Mixture of scholarly theology and folktale. Written with ordinary people in mind.

Question 52

What is the Vinaya of the Pali Cannon?

Answer 52

Rules by which nuns and monks should live. Represent the authority of Buddhism

Question 53

What is the Adhidharma of the Pali Cannon?

Answer 53

Scholarly elaboration of the doctrine (a belief or set of beliefs taught by a group of Buddhism. Theological, philosophical and psychological Focus not he individual believer and the effects of the following way.

Question 54

What texts are relevant for Mahayana Buddhists?

Answer 54

There are over 2000 sutras

Question 55

What is the Book of the Dead?

Answer 55

A book that describes in detail the stages of death and rebirth from the TIBETAN point of view only. Is only for Tibetan Buddhism. Believes in a 49 day process of rebirth

Question 56

What is the conch shell?

Answer 56

The conch shell is a hard, spiral shaped shell often used for decoration, as a musical instrument or even for food.

Question 57

What does the conch shell represent?

Answer 57

In Tibetan Buddhism, the conch shell symbolises the sovereignty and authority of Buddha’s teachings, as well as the spread of the Dharma through sound. It represents Buddha’s endless wisdom and compassion

Question 58

What is the lotus flower?

Answer 58

The lotus flower is an aquatic flower which is a positive symbol in many religions. It is a symbol for purity as it arises from the mud and is perfectly clean.

Question 59

What does the lotus flower represent

Answer 59

purity, spiritually awakening and faithfulness. Its ability to emerge from the mud and bloom perfectly clean is symbolic. Rpresents the purity of speech, body and mind

Question 60

What is the dharma wheel?

Answer 60

A chariot wheel with varying numbers of spokes

Question 61

What does the Dharma wheel represent in Buddhism?

Answer 61

The wheel represents the dharma, the teachings of the Buddha. In the center of the wheel are three swirls that represent the three jewels of Buddhism, which are the Buddha (teacher), the dharma (teachings) and the sangha (community).

Question 62

What is the parasol?

Answer 62

A thin umbrella

Question 63

What does the parasol represent?

Answer 63

The parasol or chakra symbolises protection from suffering, both physically and spiritually, as well as wisdom and compassion. It represents the Buddha’s teaching’s ability to shelter individuals from the cycle of rebirth and suffering.

Question 64

What is the endless knot?

Answer 64

A tangled knot that acts like a complex infinity sign.

Question 65

What does the endless knot symbolise?

Answer 65

The endless cycle of suffering of birth, death and rebirth within Tibetan Buddhism. The inter-twining of wisdom and compassion

Question 66

What is the golden fish?

Answer 66

Two goldfish, known as an Asian carp, with orange in colour.

Question 67

What does the golden fish symbolise?

Answer 67

The ability to navigate the ocean of early life, without being overwhelmed, much like fish freely moving in water.

Question 68

What is the treasure vase?

Answer 68

A vase of inexhaustible treasures

Question 69

What does the treasure vase symbolise?

Answer 69

Health, longevity, wealth and wisdom, and emphasises the symbolic meaning of wealth and abundance.

Question 70

Where does traditional authority lie in Buddhism?

Answer 70

Monastics

Question 71

What are Buddhist saints known as?

Answer 71

Yogins

Question 72

What happened to the perception of authority as Buddhism shifted from oral communication to written?

Answer 72

Authority became more institutionalised within monastics. The renunciation (leader of authority, yogins) lifestyle started to become seen as somewhat inferior due to their disconnection with the Buddhist community.

Question 73

How do we know who has spiritual authority in Buddhism?

Answer 73

Collective acceptance of wise people where a relationship of trust is built - trust in teachings, trust in relationships, trust in guidance on individual journey

Question 74

What is the nature of spiritual authority in Buddhism?

Answer 74

Obedience and commitment to the guru is about following a guide and trusting the process. It is not about submission or the spiritual authority of someone else forever

Question 75

How do we find authority in the west?

Answer 75

The west asks for structure and studies. It wants some sort of authority. It tries to impose such structures of power and authority on this belief system that do not align with its values