Besides the fact that Buddhists are told to think for themselves‚ and that Buddhism as a philosophy exists across many cultures‚ time periods‚ and with varying teachings and practices‚ there are some core Buddhism beliefs that might be considered representative of most Buddhists. This page may serve as a basic introduction to Buddhism. All quotes are from the Buddha‚ unless otherwise stated. If you wish to explore any idea further‚ select the link to navigate to a book or website specially recommended
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In Buddhism‚ as in Christianity‚ the choice of a human verses god‚ as an exemplar for the path to enlightenment ( salvation) is no accident. In a world where learning and teaching occurs through stories it is especially important to have a protagonist that is easy to identify with. Consequently‚ the myths surrounding the Buddha’s birth‚ early life‚ spiritual journey and awakening‚ put him in the perfect position to be such an icon. Furthermore‚ the social and political consequences of his message
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Hinduism‚ originating in northern India‚ was the source of three other religions: Jainism‚ Buddhism and Sikhism (Hopfe and Woodward‚ 74). When Hinduism started to decline because of its strict practices‚ Buddhism became more popular among the common people since it was not as complex. Buddhism arose out of the Buddha’s interpretation of the Hindu religious system. Many think that Buddhism and Hinduism are two separate sects of the same religion—but they are not. Despite having many similarities‚
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Wat Buddharangsi Temple of Miami I grew up in a house where both my parents practiced the teachings of Sikhism and Hinduism. My father’s job required us to move every three years to different countries‚ most of them of Christian majority and because of this I have been exposed to a few religions. However‚ ever since I first started studying religion I have always found Buddhism more relating to my beliefs more than any other religion has since it is more a philosophy against a religion. I was especially
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"A generous heart‚ kind speech‚ and a life of service and compassion are the things that renew humanity‚” (Buddha). This was said over 2 thousand years ago by Buddha; a person who rose to power by his leadership skills. He had the essential attributes of a leader. The qualities that make a tremendous leader are honesty and generosity to their people. People need honesty so we can follow our leaders through ”the ups and downs of life”. Kole Rodriguez was always positive and always telling us how it
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Once in a while‚ escape from the chaotic city to a place where there are not so many people is a bliss. Going to a peaceful place‚ Standing in a place surrounded by a fascinating greenish view‚ taking a deep breath in a fresh air‚ feeling so calm and relaxing. Just take a step outside and go to Mt. Koya (Koyasan). Why Mt. Koya? Mt Koya (Koyasan) is the center of Shingon Buddhism. Because of Koyasan is the center of Shingon Buddhism‚ it makes this place feel so sacred. A lot of temples built in here
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Spread of Buddhism Across the World “This is why I am continuing my travels—not to seek other‚ better teachings‚ for I know there are none‚ but to depart from all teachings and all teachers and to reach my goal by myself or to die” - Hermann Hesse. The teachings of Buddhism have been continuingly traveling all across the world and spreading. Buddhism originated from India during the 5th century BCE‚ and the spread began. By the 1st century Buddhism began to split within the religion‚ the new evolving
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It is said Avalokiteshvara (Guanyin) Bodhisattva is the personification of perfect compassion‚ a great being who aspires to help all sentient beings be free of suffering before entering the bliss of Buddhahood)‚ in the beginning of his/her Bodhisattva career of helping sentient beings‚ vowed that "Should He ever become disheartened in saving sentient beings‚ may His body shatter into a thousand pieces." This might seem extreme‚ but it was symbolic of His overwhelming great Compassion and determination
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The Formation of the Sangha The formation of the Sangha began after Buddha had attained enlightenment and was resting under the Bodhi Tree. He was visited by two merchants called Tapussa and Bhalluka who promptly took the two fold refuge in the Buddha and the Dharma. It was these two men as well as the original five ascetics who Buddha had originally practiced with‚ who formed the Sangha. Buddha authorized admission into the Sangha and rules began to develop as the Sangha’s code of conduct
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Question Nr. 1 Siddhartha Guatama kept the doctrine of ahimsa from Hinduism‚ yet the Buddha recognized divinity in every living thing. Every insect‚ every blade of grass‚ had a portion of Buddha. Buddhist monks appear to be very similar to the Hindu sannyassin. Samsara is present in both religions‚ as both believe in change and suffering. Siddhartha sought to discover a way to deal with suffering. Ascetism did not work; however‚ he was eventually enlightened while meditating. He most likely picked
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