Buddhism-2

Buddhist Beliefs, Values, and Ethics : 

Buddhist Beliefs, Values, and Ethics By: Liz, Rob and Amanda

What is Buddhism? : 

What is Buddhism? Buddhism  is a religion and philosophy encompassing a variety of traditions, beliefs and practices, largely based on teachings attributed to Siddhartha Gautama, commonly known as the Buddha "the awakened one“ There are a few different branches of Buddhism, but they all share the same basic beliefs. The main belief is that Buddhists believe in reincarnation. This is the belief that one is reborn when they die. After many cycles of rebirth and reincarnation a person may reach nirvana. Nirvana is the ultimate goal in Buddhism it is a supreme state with no suffering. It is also referred to as enlightenment.

Who is Buddha? : 

Who is Buddha? He is not a God. He was a regular man until he became enlightened. Also goes by Siddhartha Gautama, this was his name before he became enlightened. He is said to be the founder of Buddhism. Buddha means the awakened one. Some branches of Buddhism have deities others do not. Buddhism does not directly teach about Gods. It isn’t a very strict religion as long as you follow the rules and try to lead a good life.

The Dalai Lama : 

The Dalai Lama Dalai Lama means ocean of wisdom. There have been 14 Dalai Lama’s. They are said to be a reincarnation of Avalokitesvara. He was one who reached enlightenment but chose to stay in the cycle of rebirth to guide others to nirvana. This is specific to Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama is also the religious leader of Tibet.

Karma : 

Karma Buddhists also believe in Karma. Karma is the effects of a person’s actions that decide what their next incarnation will be. Karma is the belief that whatever you give you get in return. If you are a bad person, bad things will happen to you and if you are a good person then good things will happen to you. The better a person you are the faster you will reach nirvana, the ultimate goal.

Buddhist Moral Rules : 

Buddhist Moral Rules Three Training 1) Sila – good conduct. This is based on the principles that all living things are equal and the principle of reciprocity. The principle of reciprocity – do unto others as you would with them to do unto you. 2) Samadhi – Meditation. Developing one’s mind is the path to wisdom which leads to personal freedom. Meditation also strengthens the mind and helps us maintain good conduct. 3) Prajna – enlightenment. Wisdom will emerge if your mind is pure and calm. Four Nobel Truths 1) Dukka – suffering exists. 2) Samudaya – There is cause for suffering. 3) Nirodha – There is an end to suffering – nirvana. 4) Magga – In order to end suffering you must follow the eightfold path.

Buddhist Moral Rules cont.. : 

Buddhist Moral Rules cont.. The Eightfold Path 1) Right understanding of the four noble truths. 2) Right thinking – following the right path in life. 3) Right speech – no lying, criticism, condemning, gossip, or harsh language. 4) Right conduct – follow the five precepts. 5) Right livelihood – support yourself without harming others. 6) Right effort – promote good thoughts. 7) Right mindfulness – become aware of your body, mind, and feelings. 8) Right concentration – meditate to achieve a higher state of consciousness.

The Five Precepts : 

The Five Precepts The Five Precepts constitute the basic Buddhist code of ethics, undertaken by lay followers of the Buddha Gautama in the Theravada (practiced mainly southeast and south Asia) and Mahayana (practiced in China, Korea, and Japan) traditions. The Five Precepts 1) Do not kill. 2) Do not steal 3) Do not lie 4) Do not misuse sex 5) Do not consume alcohol or other drugs

Additional Precepts : 

Additional Precepts On special holy days, many Buddhists, especially those following the Theravada tradition, would observe three additional precepts with a strengthening of the third precept to be observing strict celibacy. To abstain from taking food at inappropriate times. This would mean following the tradition of Theravadin monks and not eating from noon one day until sunrise the next.  To abstain from dancing, singing, music and entertainments as well as refraining from the use of perfumes, ornaments and other items used to adorn or beautify the person. Again, this and the next rule.  To undertake the training to abstain from using high or luxurious beds are rules regularly adopted by members of the Sangha and are followed by the layperson on special occasions.

Buddhist Observations : 

Buddhist Observations Magha Puja: This is celebrated in February on the full moon. It is believed that a large group on enlightened monks gathers to pray on this day. Visakha Puja: This celebrates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death which are said to all have happened on the same day. This is one of the most important celebrations for a Buddhist. It falls on the full moon in May. This day may include special sermons and candle processions.

Buddhist Observation cont… : 

Buddhist Observation cont… Magha Puja – This is celebrated in February on the full moon. It is believed that a large group of enlightened monks gathers to pray on this day. Asalba Puja – This falls on the full moon in July. It celebrates the preaching of a sermon to followers of Buddha after enlightenment. Khao Phansa – This occurs during the full moon in July. This is when young people are ordained. This is a time of focus and meditation.

How to become Buddhist : 

How to become Buddhist To become a Buddhist you need to familiarize yourself with Buddhist practices. It is important to take your time to learn and ask questions. You have to join a Buddhist group and support them and let them support you on your path to enlightenment. Once ready you may take the affirmation.

Buddhism Rituals : 

Buddhism Rituals Buddhism rituals and practices comprise of very intricate and detailed prayers. Prayer or Puja in Buddhism is mainly a way of expressing dedication towards God and making offerings to Him. Meditation also forms a part of the rituals & practices in Buddhism. Following of the rituals moves a person forward, on the path to enlightenment. The prayers are initiated with the evoking of a Sangha. After the Sangha has been evoked, Sadhaka or dharma student performs three prostrations, also known as three gates or three aggregates. They consist of the body, the speech and the mind.

Sources : 

Sources id23.html celebrations.htm buddhism1.htm who-is-the-dalai-lama.htm basic-guide.htm http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/budethics.htm http://www.buddhist-temples.com/buddhism-facts/buddhism-ritual.html