Beliefs of Buddhism

8/9/2019 Beliefs of Buddhism

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Buddhism's core beliefs

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Core beliefs of Buddhism:

Buddhism, like most of the great religions of the world, is divided into a number of different

traditions. However, most traditions share a common set of fundamental beliefs.

One fundamental belief of Buddhism is often referred to as reincarnation -- the concept thatpeople are reborn after dying. In fact, most individuals go through many cycles of birth, living,

death and rebirth. A practicing Buddhist differentiates between the concepts of rebirth andreincarnation. In reincarnation, the individual may recur repeatedly. In rebirth, a person does not

necessarily return to Earth as the same entity ever again. He compares it to a leaf growing on atree. When the withering leaf falls off, a new leaf will eventually replace it. It is similar to the old

leaf, but it is not identical to the original leaf.

After many such cycles, if a person releases their attachment to desire and the self, they canattain Nirvana. This is a state of liberation and freedom from suffering.

The Three Trainings or Practices:

These three consist of:

1. Sila: Virtue, good conduct, morality. This is based on two fundamental principles:

The principle of equality: that all living entities are equal.

The principle ofreciprocity: This is the "Golden Rule" inChristianity -- to do onto others as you would wish them to do

onto you. It is found in all major religions.

2. Samadhi: Concentration, meditation, mental development. Developing one's mind is thepath to wisdom which in turn leads to personal freedom. Mental development alsostrengthens and controls our mind; this helps us maintain good conduct.

3. Prajna: Discernment, insight, wisdom, enlightenment. This is the real heart ofBuddhism. Wisdom will emerge if your mind is pure and calm.


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The first two paths listed in the Eightfold Path, describedbelow, refer to discernment; the lastthree belong to concentration; the middle three are related to virtue.

The Four Noble Truths:

The Buddha's Four Noble Truths explore human suffering. They may be described (somewhat

simplistically) as:

1. Dukkha:Suffering exists: (Suffering is real and almost universal. Suffering has manycauses: loss, sickness, pain, failure, the impermanence of pleasure.)

2. Samudaya:There is a cause for suffering. (It is the desire to have and control things. Itcan take many forms: craving of sensual pleasures; the desire for fame; the desire to

avoid unpleasant sensations, like fear, anger or jealousy.)

3. Nirodha:There is an end to suffering. (Suffering ceases with the final liberation ofNirvana (a.k.a. Nibbana). The mind experiences complete freedom, liberation and non-

attachment. It lets go of any desire or craving.)

4. Magga: In order to end suffering, you must follow the Eightfold Path.

The Five Precepts:

These are rules to live by. They are somewhat analogous to the second half of the TenCommandments in Judaism and Christianity -- that part of the Decalogue which describes

behaviors to avoid. However, they are recommendations, not commandments. Believers areexpected to use their own intelligence in deciding exactly how to apply these rules.

1. Do not kill. This is sometimes translated as "not harming" or an absence of violence.2. Do not steal. This is generally interpreted as including the avoidance of fraud and

economic exploitation.

3. Do not lie. This is sometimes interpreted as including name calling, gossip, etc.4. Do not misuse sex. For monks and nuns, this means any departure from complete

celibacy. For the laity, adultery is forbidden, along with any sexual harassment or

exploitation, including that within marriage. The Buddha did not discuss consensualpremarital sex within a committed relationship; Thus, Buddhist traditions differ on this.


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Most Buddhists, probably influenced by their local cultures, condemn same-sex sexualactivity regardless of the nature of the relationship between the people involved.

5. Do not consume alcohol or other drugs. The main concern here is that intoxicants cloudthe mind. Some have included as a drug other methods of divorcing ourselves from

reality -- e.g. movies, television, the Internet. 1

Those preparing for monastic life or who are not within a family are expected to avoid anadditional five activities:

6. Taking untimely meals.

7. Dancing, singing, music, watching grotesque mime.8. Use of garlands, perfumes and personal adornment.

9. Use of high seats.10. Accepting gold or silver.

There is also a series of eight precepts which are composed of the first seven listed above,followed by the eighth and ninth combined as one. "Ordained Theravada monks promise to

follow 227 precepts!" 3

The Eightfold Path:

The Buddha'sEightfold Path consists of:

Panna: Discernment, wisdom:

1) Samma ditthi Right Understanding of the Four Noble Truths2) Samma sankappa: Right thinking; following the right path in life

Sila: Virtue, morality:3)Samma vaca: Right speech: no lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, harsh language

4)Samma kammanta Right conduct by following the Five Precepts5)Samma ajiva: Right livelihood; support yourself without harming others

Samadhi:Concentration, meditation:

6) Samma vayama Right Effort: promote good thoughts; conquer evil thoughts7) Samma sati Right Mindfulness: Become aware of your body, mind and feelings

8) Samma samadhi Right Concentration: Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness

References:


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1. Guy Newland, Untitled essay at: http://www.chsbs.cmich.edu/2. Bhikkhu Bodhi, "The Noble Eightfold Path. The Way to the End ofSuffering," Buddhist

Information, at: http://www.buddhistinformation.com/3. Thomas Knierim, "The Precepts" at: http://www.thebigview.com/

Copyright 1996 to 2009 by Ontario Consultants on Religious Tolerance

Latest update: 2009-AUG-16

Author: B.A. Robinson

Buddhism beliefs - What are the basics?

The basic practices and beliefs of Buddhism are credited to Siddhartha Guatama, born in Nepal in 563 B.C.

Troubled by the suffering amongst the common people, Guatama departed from his Hindu studies and gods. He

chose to live off of alms while devoting himself to extreme somberness.

This brought him to a weakened state of mind and body and not to the peace he had hoped for. He began intense

meditation, claiming it brought him into a god-like state of "Nirvana." Though difficult to reach, Nirvana is said tobe achieved by totally denying self, entering a state of illumination, joy, and harmony. However, it is said that to doso brings release from desires for self that causes all bodily pain and sorrow. By claiming to have done so, Guatama

proclaimed himself to be an "enlightened one" or a Buddha. A Buddha is someone regarded as embodying divine

wisdom and virtue, but not a god.

Buddhist beliefs and Christianity differ in many ways:

y Buddhists do not believe in a Divine being, therefore they have no concept of salvation and atonement forwrong doings. Compare those beliefs to Christianity, wherein God provided His Son Jesus as redemption

for our sins.

y While Buddhism claims there is no beginning and end, we are shown through Christianity and Judaism theCreation and God's plan for our eternity.

y The philosophies of Buddha were written 400 years after his death. The Bible was written with numerousprophecies hundreds of years before Jesus was born.y There are no directives or absolutes to the path of Nirvana. Yet Jesus taught that while our physical bodies

will die, our soul will ascend to be with the Lord in Heaven. We must simply accept His gift of salvation tobe redeemed for this assurance. Buddhists contend that people do not have individual souls and hold to thebelief that achievements in life will continue on and on into your next bodily form, striving to get it right

(reincarnation). In Buddhism, there is no forgiveness or mercy from a loving God.

Buddhist beliefs - Where is the hope? In Buddhism, there is no hope for eternal safety. In Christianity, however,

Jesus gave us directives and absolutes. Eternal joy is achievable through accepting Him. He tells us in John 10:9a

(KJV), "I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved. . ." and Romans 10:9-13, "That if you confess

with your mouth,'Jesus is Lord' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For

it is with your heart that your believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved. Asthe Scripture says, 'Anyone who trusts in him will never be put to shame.' For there is no difference between Jew

and Gentile -- the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for 'Everyone who calls on the

name of the Lord will be saved.'"

Buddhist Belief


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Buddhism, as a religion, lays great emphasis on the adherence to the basic beliefs. The basicBuddhist belief comprise of the basic teachings and concepts of Buddhism. Lord Buddha urged

His followers to concentrate on the Four Noble Truths, which helps in attaining freedom fromsuffering. In the following lines, we have provided more information on the basic Buddhism

beliefs:

Basic Points of Buddhism

Chief monks belonging to both the Theravada sect and the Mahayana sect met in Sri Lanka in

the year 1966 and approved the following "Basic Points Unifying the Theravada and Mahayana":

y Buddha is our only Master.y We take refuge in the Buddha, the Dhamma and the Sangha.y This world is not created and ruled by a God.y The purpose of life is to develop empathy for all living beings without prejudice and to

work for their good, happiness, and peace. Last but not the least; we need acquire acumen

that will lead to the realization of Ultimate Truth.y We accept the Four Noble Truths of Buddhismy All accustomed things (samskaara) are transient (anitya) and dukkha and all conditioned

and unconditioned things (dharma) are without self (anaatma).y The Thirty-seven qualities helpful in Enlightenment are different aspects of the path

taught by the Buddha.y There are three ways of attaining Enlightenment, namely as a Disciple, as a Pratyeka-

Buddha and as a Samyak-sam-Buddha. The life of a Bodhisattva, who is striving tobecome a Samyak-sam-Buddha, is the highest, noblest and the most heroic.

y The different Buddhist beliefs, practices, rites and ceremonies, customs and habitsfollowed in different countries should not be confused with the essential teachings of

Buddha.

Buddhism - Theistic or Atheistic

Buddhism does not believe in the existence of a God who created the universe. As per Lord

Buddha, one should emphasize on the practical ways of life, which will help a person in attaining

enlightenment. However, at the same time, Buddha did not rule out the existence of a God orgods altogether. With the growth and spread of Buddhism, local deities and religious practices

were included in it. Today, Tibetan Buddhist cosmology talks about a large number of DivineBeings, believed to be representative of the psychic life. One of the six realms of the Tibetan

cosmology is the realm of Gods, who must take birth on earth as humans to attain enlightenment.

Buddhist Deities

Theravada sect of Buddhism does not believe in the existence of deities. However, as per the

Mahayana sect, celestial Buddhas and bodhisattvas occupy the universe as Gods and Goddesses.The most popular Buddhist deities include the Laughing Buddha, the Medicine Buddha, Kuan

Yin, the Green and White Taras, etc.


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Human Nature

As per Buddhism, there is nothing such as a soul or atman. Rather, a human being is believed to

be constituted of five elements, namely physical form, feelings, ideations, mental developments

and awareness. These components combine to form a human being at the time of birth. However,

since Buddhism believes in reincarnation and karma, one finds a little contradiction here.

The Purpose of Living

The main aim of life, as per Buddhism, is the extinction of suffering. By recognizing the fournoble truths of life and following the noble eightfold path, one can end the suffering in life.

The Noble Eightfold Path

In Buddhism, it is believed that one can escape from the vicious cycle of birth and death by

following the noble eightfold path, consisting of the following eight steps:

y Right Actionsy Right Concentrationy Right Effort/Exercisey Right Livelihoody Right Mindfulness/Awarenessy Right Speechy Right Thoughtsy Right Understanding

The Four Noble Truths

The Four Noble Truths, forming the essence of Buddhism, are:

y The Noble Truth of Suffering (Dukkha)y The Noble Truth of the Origin of Suffering (Samudaya)y The Noble Truth of the Cessation of Suffering (Nirodha)y The Noble Truth that leads to the Extinction of Suffering (Magga)

Buddhism Beliefs

Since some background knowledge of rebirth and karma is useful for understanding Buddhism,there now follows a brief introduction to these topics taken from Geshe Kelsangs book, EightSteps to Happiness:

The mind is neither physical, nor a by-product of purely physical processes, but a formlesscontinuum that is a separate entity from the body.


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The mind is neither physical, nor a by-product of purely physical processes, but a formlesscontinuum that is a separate entity from the body. When the body disintegrates at death, the mind

does not cease. Although our superficial conscious mind ceases, it does so by dissolving into adeeper level of consciousness, call the very subtle mind. The continuum of our very subtle

mind has no beginning and no end, and it is this mind which, when completely purified,

transforms into the omniscient mind of a Buddha.

Every action we perform leaves an imprint, or potential, on our very subtle mind, and each

karmic potential eventually gives rise to its own effect. Our mind is like a field, and performingactions is like sowing seeds in that field. Positive or virtuous actions sow the seeds of future

happiness, and negative or non-virtuous actions sow the seeds of future suffering. This definiterelationship between actions and their effects virtue causing happiness and non-virtue causing

suffering is know as the law of karma. An understanding of the law of karma is the basis ofBuddhist morality.

After we die our very subtle mind leaves our body and enters the intermediate state, or bardo in

Tibetan. In this subtle dream-like state we experience many different visions that arise from thekarmic potentials that were activated at the time of our death. These visions may be pleasant or

terrifying depending on the karma that ripens. Once these karmic seeds have fully ripened theyimpel us to take rebirth without choice.

It is important to understand that as ordinary samsaric beings we do not choose our rebirth butare reborn solely in accordance with our karma. If good karma ripens we are reborn in a

fortunate state, either as a human or a god, but if negative karma ripens we are reborn in a lowerstate, as an animal, a hungry ghost, or a hell being. It is as if we are blown to our future lives by

the winds of our karma, sometimes ending up in higher rebirths, sometimes in lower rebirths.

This uninterrupted cycle of death and rebirth without choice is called cyclic existence, orsamsara in Sanskrit.

This uninterrupted cycle of death and rebirth without choice is called cyclic existence, or

samsara in Sanskrit. Samsara is like a Ferris wheel, sometimes taking us up into the threefortunate realms, sometimes down into the three lower realms. The driving force of the wheel of

samsara is our contaminated actions motivated by delusions, and the hub of the wheel is self-grasping ignorance. For as long as we remain on this wheel we shall experience an unceasing

cycle of suffering and dissatisfaction, and we shall have no opportunity to experience pure,lasting happiness. By practicing the Buddhist path to liberation and enlightenment, however, we

can destroy self-grasping, thereby liberating ourself from the cycle of uncontrolled rebirth andattaining a state of perfect peace and freedom.

We shall then be in a position to help others to do the same. A more detailed explanation ofrebirth and karma can be found in the books Introduction to Buddhism and Joyful Path of GoodFortune.

Basic beliefs of Buddhism


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Buddhists believe that true peace, wisdom and personal freedom can be achieved by all ofhumankind.

As the fourth largest religion in the world, Buddhism bases its practices and principles on thevirtues of peace, loving kindness and wisdom. With only Christianity, Islam and Hinduism

having more followers, Buddhism is a popular religion and is practiced by believers around theglobe.

One of the basic beliefs of Buddhism is the conviction that happiness and good fortune are

attainable to all, regardless of age, race or background. Buddhists believe that all negative mentalstates or "delusions" as they are referred to, can be overcome through the practice of meditation.

By learning how to meditate, humans can develop peaceful and positive mental states or"virtues", and be able to solve the problems associated with their daily lives. Reincarnation is

another essential component of Buddhism. Buddhists believe that humans are re born afterdying, and adhere to the notion that most humans go through many cycles of birth, life, death and

rebirth. These cycles will end when the attachment to desire and the self is released. Once this isaccomplished, a state of liberation and freedom from suffering is achieved. This is the state of

Nirvana and the desired destination for believers of the Buddhist faith.

There are three main trainings, or practices in Buddhism. The first is Sila, which applies tovirtue, good conduct and morality. Sila is based on two fundamental principles: the principle of


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equality and the principle of reciprocation. The first refers to the belief that all living things areequal, no one form should be considered above another. The second can be likened to the

"Golden Rule" of Christianity, which refers to the practice of treating others as you would like tobe treated. The second main training in Buddhism is Samadhi, which refers to concentration,

meditation and mental development. Buddhists believe that developing the mind is the true path

to wisdom; this in turn leads to personal freedom. The third main practice associated withBuddhism is Prajna, which concerns itself with discernment, insight, wisdom and enlightenment.

Faith in the Five Precepts is of utmost important amongst the basic beliefs of Buddhism. Theseprecepts are similar to the Ten Commandments found in Christianity. They are:

1. Do not kill, be kind to all creatures 2. Do not steal, give rather than take 3. Do not lie, be

honest and open 4. Do not misuse sex 5. Do not consume alcohol or use recreational drugs.

The basic beliefs of Buddhism also include "The Four Noble Truths", which explore humansuffering. The first truth is called Dukkha and it says that suffering exists and is universal. The

second truth is referred to as Samudaya. This truth states that there is a cause for suffering.Nirodha, the third truth, states that there is an end to suffering and it ceases when one reaches the

state of Nirvana. The fourth and final noble truth is Magga, which says that in order to endsuffering you must follow the Eightfold Path.

The Buddha's Eightfold Path is one of the most important basic beliefs of Buddhism. The firstpart begins with Panna, or discernment and wisdom. Included in Panna is Samma Ditthi, the

understanding of the Four Noble Truths and Samma Sankappa, which refers to following theright path in life through correct thinking. The next section is called Sila, the practice of virtue

and morality and includes the next six paths. Samma Vaca, the practice of right speech; no lying,criticism, condemning, gossiping or harsh language is acceptable. Samma Kammanta, the

practice of right conduct, which is attained by following the Five Precepts. Samma Ajiva, theright livelihood. Support yourself without harming others. Samma Vayama, the right effort. Try

to have good thoughts and dissuade evil ones. Samma Sati refers to right mindfulness. Becomeaware of your mind, your feelings and your body. Samma Samadhi, correct concentration.

Meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness.

By following the basic beliefs of Buddhism and adhering to its practices and principles, it isbelieved that true peace, wisdom and personal freedom can be achieved by all of humankind.

Buddhism Beliefs are the following:

The Four Noble Truths (Read a more detailed article on the Four Noble

Truths)

The First Noble Truth is suffering. Life is full of misery: birth, ageing, sickness and death are all suffering.

Though people strive for pleasure they receive only pain: sorrow, lamentation, pain, grief, despair,

contact with the hated and separation from the loved. And even if they do achieve a little happiness

they soon tire of it and again become discontent.


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The Second Noble Truth is the cause of suffering. Desire and greed always lead to dissatisfaction.

Craving and attachment for sensual pleasures, the desire to end sorrow and the ambition to go on living:

all these are the causes of rebirth, which brings further suffering.

The Third Noble Truth is the cessation of suffering. When craving and desire are relinquished, suffering

and discontent end, and in their place comes satisfaction and peace.

The Fourth Noble Truth is the way to cessation of suffering. The Buddha taught a Middle Way, that

avoided either excessive pleasure-seeking or excessive hardships. This middle way leads to

enlightenment, and is called the Noble Eightfold Path.

Buddhism Beliefs - The Noble Eightfold Path

The Eightfold Path begins with Right Understanding arising from the first three noble truths, seeing that

all is impermanent. From this awareness comes Right Intention, aspiring to truth, beauty and goodness.

This leads to good conduct, in the form of Right Speech, Right Action and Right Livelihood, namely taking

responsibility for ones body, its behaviour and speech, including non-violence, acting with compassion,

following a moral code, and working in a way that does not harm others. Finally come Right Effort, Right

Mindfulness and Right Concentration, which are developed in the heart through the regular the practice

of meditation.

Buddhism Beliefs - Karma and the divine

Buddhism does not teach belief in one God, and in some forms teaches there is no god. However,

popular and in particular Mahayana Buddhism (the Buddhism of China, Tibet, Mongolia, Japan and

Korea) teaches the existence of many deities, and elevates the Buddha into a divine being, the origin of

all that exists.

Buddhists believe in the power of karma, or actions based on desire. Such actions, either good or bad,

make a person continue in the cycle of reincarnation being reborn repeatedly until achieving

enlightenment.

Five Precepts

The Buddha taught Five Precepts for everyday life:

Do not harm any living creature

Do not steal, and be generous in giving

Do not take more than you need

Do not lie

Do not act thoughtlessly

Buddhist teachers draw upon these precepts, particularly the first, middle and last, to explain the

importance of conservation.


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Authors Details: Buddhism Belief - Unknown Source

Basic Beliefs of Buddhism

Buddhism is popular not only in South Asian Countries but also in many western countries. One

of the reasons could be because Buddhism has answers and solutions to problems faced by thepeople living in the materialistic world. This article gives an insight into the basic beliefs of

Buddhism.

Buddhism is the fourth largest religion of the world and has its origin in India. SiddharthaGautama, a warrior prince who lived from 566 to 480 B.C founded Buddhism. Gautama was

tired and weary of his luxurious life. He renounced his princely life to seek the truth about life.He spent many years of hard penance under a Bodhi tree in search of liberation from material

values of life. After many years of penance he achieved an epiphany and came to be known as"Buddha". Buddha means the "Enlightened One". After the enlightenment, he traveled around

India imparting the wise knowledge he had achieved. Gradually, his teachings spread to theSouth Asian countries. Today, Buddhism is a popular religion practiced by many around the

globe.

Basic Beliefs of Buddhism

As Buddhism spread to many countries it was split into many number of sects. Each sect hasadopted a various beliefs, rituals, practices and customs. However, all the sects believe in the

basic doctrines and beliefs of early Buddhism.

Buddhism believed all individuals irrespective of the age, race and background could attain


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happiness. One of the basic beliefs of Buddhism is the belief that all delusions and negativemental states could be overcome through the practice of meditation.

Another basic belief of Buddhism is reincarnation. Buddhist doctrines believed in the cycles of

birth, life, death and rebirth. The doctrine stresses on these cycles and believe Nirvana is

achieved when one sheds his desires and ego.

"The Four Noble Truths" also is included in the basic beliefs of Buddhism.

The Four Noble Truths

"The Four Noble Truths" summarizes the basic beliefs of Buddhism.

y First TruthThe first truth is "Dukkha" or suffering. According to this basic belief there is suffering in the

life of every individual. The suffering includes loneliness, frustration, embarrassment, anger andfear. This is the reality and not pessimism. This belief of Buddhism explains how to avoid

sufferings and achieve happiness.

y Second TruthThe second noble truth is "Samudaya". According to this truth and the basic belief of Buddhism

craving and aversion are the root cause of suffering. Craving and greed deprive an individual ofhappiness and contentment. Unless an individual curbs his cravings for luxuries of life, he would

not attain Nirvana.

yThird Truth

"Nirodha" is the third noble truth. This truth explains how an individual could overcome his

sufferings and achieve happiness. As per to this belief, an individual should never dwell on theincidents that occurred in the past or think too much about his future. Life would be happy if an

individual learns to live each day at a time.

y Fourth Truth"Marga" is the final truth. According to the fourth truth, to end your suffering and attain nirvana,an individual has to to follow the "Eight-fold Path". The "Eight-fold Path" emphasizes on

focusing ones mind on being aware of his thoughts and actions. It also gives importance tomorality and perfect livelihood. You would have a better understanding of the "Four Noble

Truths" by being compassionate to others and also by developing wisdom.

Buddhist teachings could be understood and adopted by any individual. Buddhism believes thatthe root cause of a problem is an individual himself. Hence, the solution to his problem is withinhimself. It is believed Buddha had asked his followers to test the teachings for themselves before


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practicing the beliefs. Buddhism encourages an individual to understand the basic beliefs beforepracticing it.

By Maya Pillai

Buddhism Religious Beliefs

The Three JewelsBuddhists seek refuge in what are often referred to as the Three Jewels, Triple Gem orTriple Jewel. These are the Buddha, the Dharma, and the "noble" (Sanskrit: arya) Sanghaor community of monks and nuns who havebecome enlightened.

While it is impossible to escape one's karma orthe effects caused by previous thoughts, wordsand deeds, it is possible to avoid the sufferingthat comes from it by becoming enlightened. In

this way, dharma offers a refuge. Dharma, usedin the sense of the Buddha's teachings, providesa raft and is thus a temporary refuge whileentering and crossing the river. However, the realrefuge is on the other side of the river.

Taking RefugeTo one who is seeking to become enlightened,taking refuge constitutes a continuingcommitment to pursuing enlightenment andfollowing in the footsteps of the people who have followed the path to enlightenment before.It contains an element of confidence that enlightenment is in fact a refuge, a supremeresort. Many Buddhists take the refuges each day, sometimes more than once in order to

remind themselves of what they are doing and to direct their resolve inwardly towardsliberation.

Although Buddhists concur that taking refuge should be undertaken with proper motivation(complete liberation) and an understanding of the objects of refuge, the Indian scholarAtisha identified that in practice there are many different motives found for taking refuge.His idea was to use these differing motivations as a key to resolving any apparent conflictsbetween all the Buddha's teachings without depending upon some form of syncresis thatwould cause as much confusion as it attempted to alleviate.

In the 11th century, Lamp for the Path by Atisha, and in the subsequent Lamrim tradition aselaborated by Tsongkhapa, the several motives for refuge are enumerated as follows,

typically introduced using the concept of the "scope" (level of motivation) of a practitioner:

Worldly scope is taking refuge to improve the lot of this life Low scope is taking refuge togain high rebirth and avoid the low realms Middle scope is taking refuge to achieve NirvanaHigh scope is taking refuge to achieve Buddhahood Highest scope is also sometimesincluded, which is taking refuge to achieve Buddhahood in this life.


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The Four Noble TruthsThe Buddha taught that life was dissatisfactory because of craving, but that this conditionwas curable by following the eightfold path. This teaching is called the four noble truths:

y Dukkha: All worldly life is unsatisfactory, disjointed, containing suffering.y Samudaya: There is a cause of suffering, which is attachment or desire (tanha)

rooted in ignorance.y Nirodha: There is an end of suffering, which is Nirvana.y Marga: There is a path that leads out of suffering, known as the Noble Eightfold

Path.

Buddhist monk Geshe Konchog Wangdu reads Mahayana sutras from an oldwoodblock copy of the Tibetan Kanjur.In order to fully understand the noble truthsand investigate whether they were in fact true, Buddha recommended that a certainlifestyle or path be followed which consists of:

y Right Understandingy Right Thoughty Right Speechy Right Actiony Right Livelihoody Right Efforty Right Mindfulnessy Right Concentration

Sometimes in the Pali Canon the Eightfold Path is spoken of as being a progressive series ofstages which the practitioner moves through, the culmination of one leading to thebeginning of another, but it is more usual to view the stages of the 'Path' as requiringsimultaneous development.

The Eightfold Path essentially consists of meditation, following the precepts, and cultivatingthe positive converse of the precepts (e.g. benefiting living beings is the converse of thefirst precept of harmlessness). The Path may also be thought of as a the way of developingsila, meaning mental and moral discipline. The Five PreceptsBuddhists undertake certain precepts as aids on the path to coming into contact withultimate reality. Laypeople generally undertake five precepts. The five precepts are:

y I undertake the precept to refrain from harming living creatures (killing).y I undertake the precept to refrain from taking that which is not freely given

(stealing).y I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual misconduct.y I undertake the precept to refrain from incorrect speech (lying, harsh language,

slander, idle chit-chat).y I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicants which lead to loss of mindfulness.y In some schools of Buddhism, serious lay people or aspiring monks take an

additional three to five ethical precepts, and some of the five precepts arestrengthened. For example, the precept pertaining to sexual misconduct becomes aprecept of celibacy; the fourth precept, which pertains to incorrect speech, isexpanded to four: lying, harsh language, slander, and idle chit-chat. Monks and nunsin most countries also vow to follow the 227 patimokkha rules.


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The three marks of conditioned existenceAccording to the Buddhist tradition all phenomena (dharmas) are marked by threecharacteristics, sometimes referred to as the Dharma Seals:

Anatta (Pali; Sanskrit: anatman): In Indian philosophy, the concept of a self is called atman(that is, "soul" or metaphysical self), which refers to an unchanging, permanent essence

conceived by virtue of existence. This concept and the related concept of Brahman, theVedantic monistic ideal, which was regarded as an ultimate atman for all beings, wereindispensable for mainstream Indian metaphysics, logic, and science; for all apparent thingsthere had to be an underlying and persistent reality, akin to a Platonic form. The Buddharejected all concepts of atman, emphasizing not permanence but changeability. He taughtthat all concepts of a substantial self were incorrect and formed in the realm of ignorance.

According to some thinkers both in the East and the West, this may imply that Buddhism isa form of nihilism or something similar. However, as thinkers like Nagarjuna have pointedout, Buddhism is not simply a rejection of the concept of existence (or of meaning, etc.) butof the hard and fast distinction between existence and nonexistence, or rather betweenbeing and nothingness. Buddhism thus has more in common with Western empiricism,

pragmatism, and anti-foundationalism than it does with nihilism per se.

Anicca (Pali; Sanskrit: anitya): All things and experiences are inconstant, unsteady, andimpermanent. Everything is made up of parts, and is dependent on the right conditions forits existence. Everything is in flux, and so conditions are constantly changing. Things areconstantly coming into being, and ceasing to be. Nothing lasts. Dukkha (Pali; Sanskrit:du?kha): because we fail to truly grasp the first two conditions, we suffer. We desire alasting satisfaction, but look for it amongst constantly changing phenomena. We perceive aself, and act to enhance that self by pursuing pleasure, and seek to prolong pleasure whenit too is fleeting. It is by realizing (not merely understanding intellectually, but making realin one's experience) the three marks of conditioned existence that one develops Praja,which is the antidote to the ignorance that lies at the root of all suffering.

Other principles and practicesMeditation or dhyana of some form is a common practice in most if not all schools ofBuddhism, for the clergy if not the laity.

Central to Buddhist doctrine and practice is the law of karma and vipaka; action and itsfruition, which happens within the dynamic of dependent origination (pratitya-samutpada).Actions which result in positive retribution (happiness) are defined as skillful or good, whileactions that produce negative results (suffering) are called unskillful or bad actions. Theseactions are expressed by the way of mind, body or speech. Some actions bring instantretribution while the results of other actions may not appear until a future lifetime.

Rebirth, which is closely related to the law of karma. An action in this life may not give fruit

or reaction until the next life time. This being said, action in a past life takes effect in thisone, making a chain of existence. The full realization of the absence of an eternal self orsoul (the doctrine of anatta (Pali; Sanskrit: anatman)) breaks this cycle of birth and death(samsara).

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from Wikipedia.


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Buddhism Beliefs - A Five Minute Introduction

What is Buddhism?

Buddhism is a religion to about 300 million people around the world. The word comes from

'budhi', 'to awaken'. It has its origins about 2,500 years ago when Siddhartha Gotama,

known as the Buddha, was himself awakened (enlightened) at the age of 35.

Is Buddhism a Religion?

To many, Buddhism goes beyond religion and is more of a philosophy or 'way of life'. It is a

philosophy because philosophy 'means love of wisdom' and the Buddhist path can be

summed up as:

(1) to lead a moral life,

(2) to be mindful and aware of thoughts and actions, and

(3) to develop wisdom and understanding.

How Can Buddhism HelpMe?

Buddhism explains a purpose to life, it explains apparent injustice and inequality around

the world, and it provides a code of practice or way of life that leads to true happiness.

Why is Buddhism Becoming Popular?

Buddhism is becoming popular in western countries for a number of reasons, The first

good reason is Buddhism has answers to many of the problems in modern materialistic

societies. It also includes (for those who are interested) a deep understanding of the human

mind (and natural therapies) which prominent psychologists around the world are now

discovering to be both very advanced and effective.

Who Was the Buddha?

Siddhartha Gotama was born into a royal family in Lumbini, now located in Nepal, in 563

BC. At 29, he realised that wealth and luxury did not guarantee happiness, so he explored

the different teachings religions and philosophies of the day, to find the key to humanhappiness. After six years of study and meditation he finally found 'the middle path' and

was enlightened. After enlightenment, the Buddha spent the rest of his life teaching the

principles of Buddhism called the Dhamma, or Truth until his death at the age of 80.

Was the Buddha a God?

He was not, nor did he claim to be. He was a man who taught a path to enlightenment from


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his own experience.

Do Buddhists Worship Idols?

Buddhists sometimes pay respect to images of the Buddha, not in worship, nor to ask for

favours. A statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in its lap and a compassionatesmile reminds us to strive to develop peace and love within ourselves. Bowing to the statue

is an expression of gratitude for the teaching.

Why are so Many Buddhist Countries Poor?

One of the Buddhist teachings is that wealth does not guarantee happiness and also wealth

is impermanent. The people of every country suffer whether rich or poor, but those who

understand Buddhist teachings can find true happiness.

Are There Different Types of Buddhism?

There are many different types of Buddhism, because the emphasis changes from country

to country due to customs and culture. What does not vary is the essence of the teaching

the Dhamma or truth.

Are Other Religions Wrong?

Buddhism is also a belief system which is tolerant of all other beliefs or religions. Buddhism

agrees with the moral teachings of other religions but Buddhism goes further by providing

a long term purpose within our existence, through wisdom and true understanding. Real

Buddhism is very tolerant and not concerned with labels like 'Christian', 'Moslem', 'Hindu'

or 'Buddhist'; that is why there have never been any wars fought in the name of Buddhism.

That is why Buddhists do not preach and try to convert, only explain if an explanation is

sought.

Is Buddhism Scientific?

Science is knowledge which can be made into a system, which depends upon seeing and

testing facts and stating general natural laws. The core of Buddhism fit into this definition,

because the Four Noble truths (see below) can be tested and proven by anyone in fact the

Buddha himself asked his followers to test the teaching rather than accept his word as true.

Buddhism depends more on understanding than faith.

What did the Buddha Teach?

The Buddha taught many things, but the basic concepts in Buddhism can be summed up by

the Four Noble Truths and the Noble Eightfold Path.

What is the First Noble Truth?


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The first truth is that life is suffering i.e., life includes pain, getting old, disease, and

ultimately death. We also endure psychological suffering like loneliness frustration, fear,

embarrassment, disappointment and anger. This is an irrefutable fact that cannot be

denied. It is realistic rather than pessimistic because pessimism is expecting things to be

bad. lnstead, Buddhism explains how suffering can be avoided and how we can be truly

happy.

What is the Second Noble Truth?

The second truth is that suffering is caused by craving and aversion. We will suffer if we

expect other people to conform to our expectation, if we want others to like us, if we do not

get something we want,etc. In other words, getting what you want does not guarantee

happiness. Rather than constantly struggling to get what you want, try to modify your

wanting. Wanting deprives us of contentment and happiness. A lifetime of wanting and

craving and especially the craving to continue to exist, creates a powerful energy which

causes the individual to be born. So craving leads to physical suffering because it causes us

to be reborn.

What is the Third Noble Truth?

The third truth is that suffering can be overcome and happiness can be attained; that true

happiness and contentment are possible. lf we give up useless craving and learn to live each

day at a time (not dwelling in the past or the imagined future) then we can become happy

and free. We then have more time and energy to help others. This is Nirvana.

What is the Fourth Noble Truth?

The fourth truth is that the Noble 8-fold Path is the path which leads to the end of

suffering.

What is the Noble 8-Fold Path?

In summary, the Noble 8-fold Path is being moral (through what we say, do and our

livelihood), focussing the mind on being fully aware of our thoughts and actions, and

developing wisdom by understanding the Four Noble Truths and by developing

compassion for others.

What are the 5 Precepts?

The moral code within Buddhism is the precepts, of which the main five are: not to take the

life of anything living, not to take anything not freely given, to abstain from sexual

misconduct and sensual overindulgence, to refrain from untrue speech, and to avoid

intoxication, that is, losing mindfulness.

What is Karma?


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Karma is the law that every cause has an effect, i.e., our actions have results. This simple

law explains a number of things: inequality in the world, why some are born handicapped

and some gifted, why some live only a short life. Karma underlines the importance of all

individuals being responsible for their past and present actions. How can we test the

karmic effect of our actions? The answer is summed up by looking at (1) the intention

behind the action, (2) effects of the action on oneself, and (3) the effects on others.

What is Wisdom?

Buddhism teaches that wisdom should be developed with compassion. At one extreme, you

could be a goodhearted fool and at the other extreme, you could attain knowledge without

any emotion. Buddhism uses the middle path to develop both. The highest wisdom is seeing

that in reality, all phenomena are incomplete, impermanent and do no constitute a fixed

entity. True wisdom is not simply believing what we are told but instead experiencing and

understanding truth and reality. Wisdom requires an open, objective, unbigoted mind. The

Buddhist path requires courage, patience, flexibility and intelligence.

What is Compassion?

Compassion includes qualities of sharing, readiness to give comfort, sympathy, concern,

caring. In Buddhism, we can really understand others, when we can really understand

ourselves, through wisdom.

How do I Become a Buddhist?

Buddhist teachings can be understood and tested by anyone. Buddhism teaches that the

solutions to our problems are within ourselves not outside. The Buddha asked all his

followers not to take his word as true, but rather to test the teachings for themselves. ln this

way, each person decides for themselves and takes responsibility for their own actions and

understanding. This makes Buddhism less of a fixed package of beliefs which is to be

accepted in its entirety, and more of a teaching which each person learns and uses in their

own way.

Prepared by Brian White 1993, with thanks to Ven S. Dhammika.

Core Beliefs In Buddhism


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THE FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS

The First Noble Truth

Unsatisfactoriness and suffering exist and are universally experienced.

The Second Noble TruthDesire and attachment are the causes of unsatisfactoriness and suffering.

The Third Noble TruthThere is an end to unsatisfactoriness and suffering.

The Fourth Noble TruthThe end can be attained by journeying on the Noble Eightfold Path.

NOBLE EIGHTFOLD PATH

1. Right View/Understanding(Understanding the Four Noble Truths) - See things as they truly are without

delusions or distortions for all things change. Develop wisdom by knowinghow things work, knowing oneself and others.

2. Right ThinkingDecide to set a life on the correct path.Wholehearted resolution and

dedication to overcoming the dislocation of self-centered craving throughthe development of loving kindness, empathy and compassion.

3. Right SpeechAbstinence from lies and deceptions, backbiting, idle babble and abusive


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speech. Cultivate honesty and truthfulness; practice speech that is kind andbenevolent. Let your words reflect your desire to help, not harm others.

4.Right Conduct

(Following the Five Precepts) - Practice self-less conduct that reflects thehighest statement of the life you want to live. Express conduct that ispeaceful, honest and pure showing compassion for all beings.

5. Right LivelihoodEarn a living that does not harm living things. Avoidance of work that

causes suffering to others or that makes a decent, virtuous life impossible.Do not engage in any occupation that opposes or distracts one from the

path. Love and serve our world through your work.

6. Right Effort

Seek to make the balance between the exertion of following the spiritualpath and a moderate life that is not over-zealous. Work to develop morewholesome mind states, while gently striving to go deeper and live more

fully.

7. Right MindfulnessBecome intensely aware of all the states in body, feeling, and mind.

Through constant vigilance in thought, speech and action seek to rid the

mind of self-centered thoughts that separate and replace them with thosethat bind all beings together. Be aware of your thoughts, emotions, bodyand world as they exist in the present moment. Your thoughts create your

reality.

8. Right ConcentrationDeep meditation to lead to a higher state of consciousness (enlightenment).

Through the application of meditation and mental discipline seek toextinguish the last flame of grasping consciousness and develop an

emptiness that has room to embrace and love all things.


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THE FIVE PRECEPTS

The Five Precepts are basic ethical guidelines for the followers of Buddhism. They are

undertaken voluntarily, rather than as commandments from a god.

Essentially, these precepts promote harmony and reduce suffering between ourselvesand others. The underpinning moral code has two qualities: compassion (karuna)

and loving kindness (metta), which are used as the guiding principles in life.

1. I undertake the precept to refrain from destroying living creatures.

2. I undertake the precept to refrain from taking that which is not given.

3. I undertake the precept to refrain from sexual misconduct.

4. I undertake the precept to refrain from incorrect speech.

5. I undertake the precept to refrain from intoxicatants.

What Are Buddhism Beliefs?

What Are Buddhism Beliefs?

It is just as difficult to describe the beliefs of all Buddhists as it is to describe the same for allChristians. Religions often have different sects, belief systems, even different core philosophies

while still sharing the same name. Think of a Baptist church in Mississippi compared to aCatholic mass in upstate New York just for one example.

Still there are some basic principles about Buddhism that are common to all people who call

themselves Buddhist. In this article, well take a look at rebirth and reincarnation, the Four NobleTruths, the Eightfold Path, and the Five Precepts. Understanding this basics will give you a quick

and dirty understanding of Buddhism.

Rebirth and Reincarnation

Dont confuse the two things the idea of rebirth is that a persons energy is retained

although the form changes. Buddhists will tell you to think of rebirth as like a leaf on a branchthat eventually withers but grows back. Same energy, different form. Reincarnation refers to a

rebirth of the exact same being back into the physical plane. Contrary to popular belief, there are


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many cycles of life, death, and rebirth that happen in a persons life too many cycles tonumber.

The purpose of these rebirths is to purify the spirit so that eventually one can attain a state known

as Nirvana, or perfect oneness with the universe. When a spirit reaches Nirvana it is relieved of

all form and therefore all suffering.

Four Noble Truths

Buddhists believe that Gautama Buddha reached a state of enlightenment and many things wererevealed to him. One of these enlightenments is known as the Four Noble Truths. These concepts

are an exploration of human suffering. The Four Noble Truths are

1. Dukkha: Simply, this says that suffering exists.

2. Samudaya: This means There is a cause for suffering. It turns out that desire is the cause of

all suffering.

3. Nirodha: This concept suggests that there is an end to all suffering.

4. Magga: Like all good religious systems, this Truth is self-referential in a sense. It says that inorder to end all suffering and reach Nirvana, you must follow the Eightfold Path.

So what is the Eightfold Path?

Eightfold Path

According to Buddhists, the way to Nirvana is through following these instructions to the letter.

1. Right Understanding (of the Four Noble Truths)2. Right Thinking

3. Right Speech4. Right Conduct

5. Right Livelihood6. Right Effort

7. Right Mindfulness8. Right Meditation

Buddhisms Ten Commandments

Spoiler alert theres only five of them.

Certain followers of Buddhism hold fast to the Five Precepts which come from a documentproduced by a specific sect of Buddhism. These Precepts are

Do not kill.


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Do not steal.

Do not lie.

Do not misuse sex.

Do not consume alcohol or other drugs.

These are not hard and fast rules passed down by a deity, but precepts interpreted by the

people out of thousands of years of history to help them live the right way. There are as manyinterpretations for each of these Precepts as there are sects and practices of Buddhism.

If youre interested in learning more about Buddhism, check out these blogs by Buddhists and

gain some insight into their world.

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