- Encouraging Buddhism: The Middle Path to Liberation you have gained a better understanding of what the religion of Buddhism is all about from the context of its history, beliefs and practices, code of ethics, etc. You will now use the information gleaned in the chapter to expand upon particular elements of Buddhism enumerated below:
Buddhist Symbols and Names (.5 pages)
Identify a common Buddhist symbol and explain its significance
Consider the following:
History/Origins of the symbol
Important religious figure(s) associated with the symbol and their involvement with it
How is the symbol utilized by Buddhists today?
Is it used during prayer/worship?
Is it worm as an outward sign of faith?
Distinguish between the terms 'Buddhism' and 'The Buddha' as it relates to the religion itself. Accurately define each.
Life of the Siddhartha Gautama (.5-1 pages)
Discuss who Siddhartha Gautama was and the impact that he had on Buddhism.
Describe 3 key events from Siddhartha Gautama's life.
Address how these events are commemorated by Buddhists today.
Do not presume that Siddartha Gautama was always a morally perfect person. For example, take into account his abandonment of his own newborn son and his wife in chapter 21 of the Illustrated Biography of the Buddha.
Beliefs and Practices (2 – 3 pages)
Throughout his life, Siddhartha Gautama did not record any of his teachings, but he is known for his influential sermons and the discussions that he had with his fellow monks. These sermons were transmitted orally for centuries before they were finally committed to writing by several different Buddhist groups. One of the most famous of The Buddha’s discourses is his first discourse titled Setting in Motion the Wheel of Dhamma and in this discourse he outlines two ideas that would become the foundation of all Buddhist thought: The Four Noble Truths and The Noble Eightfold Path.
Interpret the meaning of each of the Four Noble Truths (1-1.5 pages)
All life is suffering.
The Cause of Suffering is desire.
To end desire is to end suffering.
to end desire, one must follow the Noble Eightfold Path.
Articulate the significance of each of the aspects of The Noble Eightfold Path listed below and demonstrate how Buddhists believe that following these practical techniques will help them to achieve nirvana (1-1.5 pages)
Right Understanding
Right Thought (Intention)
Right Speech
Right Conduct
Right Livelihood
Right Effort
Right Mindfulness
Right Concentration (Contemplation)