This document provides an overview of Theravada Buddhism. It discusses that Theravada Buddhism is the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism, focusing on individual liberation through monastic life and meditation. The document then covers the historical background of Buddhism and the life of Buddha, including his encounters that led him to seek enlightenment. It details Buddha's attainment of enlightenment under the bodhi tree and his subsequent teachings. The core of Buddhist philosophy and Theravada teachings are explained through the Four Noble Truths about the nature of suffering and the Eightfold Path to end it. The document concludes by outlining the sacred scriptures and core beliefs of Theravada Buddhism.
Buddhism Report Grade 11
Content
Buddhism Definition and History
Buddhism Types and Subdivision
Life of Buddha
The Sutras
Non-cannonical/Noncannonical Buddhist Texts
The Tripitaka (Pali Canon)
Beliefs and Doctrines
Law of Dependent Origination
Pratityasamutpada
Impermanence of Things
Four Noble Truths
Eight Fold Path
Worship and Observances
Women in Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism
Paramitas
Six Paramitas
All forms of Buddhism celebrate various events in the life of the Buddha Gautama, including his birth, enlightenment, and passage into nirvana. In some countries, where the older and more conservative Theravada tradition predominates, the three events are observed on the same day, which is called Wesak. In regions adhering to the other major form of Buddhism, the Mahayana tradition, the festivals are held on different days and incorporate a variety of rituals and practices. The birth of the Buddha is celebrated in April or May, depending upon the lunar date, in these countries. In Japan, which does not use a lunar calendar, the Buddha’s birth is celebrated on April 8. The celebration there has merged with a native Shintō ceremony into the flower festival known as Hanamatsuri.
This presentation is presented by Mahachulalongkorn International philosophy students 2016. I want to share this side to everyone to learn more about Mahayana and zen buddhism in Japan.
Chapter 5 BUDDHISMChapter Overview Buddhism was born in th.docxchristinemaritza
Chapter 5 BUDDHISM
Chapter Overview
Buddhism was born in the fifth-century BCE in the foothills of the Himalayas. It spread from India throughout Asia, developing a variety of schools and different practices. It has more recently become popular in the West.
The goals of the chapter are:
1. To sketch a biography of Siddhartha, founder of Buddhism
2. To lay out the foundational tenets of Dharma, especially the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path
3. To illustrate key philosophical concepts such as karma, reincarnation, and nirvana
4. To illustrate lay and monastic practices within Buddhism
5. To explain distinctions between important expressions of Buddhism namely, Theravada and Mahayana, with examples of significant schools within Mahayana
Students should find the chapter section on the life of the Buddha lively and engaging. It is helpful to remind them that “the Buddha” (“one who has awakened” or “enlightened”) is a religious title and not a proper name. (The “u” in Buddha is pronounced like the “oo” in “good,” not like the “oo” in “food.”)
Given its origins in India and subsequent spread throughout Asia, Buddhism presents a challenge with respect to vocabulary from different Asian languages. Both Pali and Sanskrit were used in Indian Buddhism.
The life and legend of the Buddha
Scholarly debate continues about the exact dates of the Buddha’s life; he most likely lived for about eighty years during the fifth century BCE. Historically, verifiable details of his life are sparse; more important for understandings of Buddhism are the many ways followers have recalled his life in various sacred biographies. These sacred biographies describe the life of child named Siddhartha, born to Maya and Shuddhodana, who was a chief of the Shakya clan in northern India in the foothills along the Himalayas. Maya dreamed that a white elephant entered her womb. At the time of Siddhartha’s birth, priests foretold that this child would become either a great king or a person who would renounce earthly life in order to share his enlightenment with the rest of the world.
The sacred biographies of the Buddha provide a useful basis for comparison with other sacred biographies, such as the biblical accounts of the lives of Moses and Jesus. It is also useful to remind students that Buddhism develops within the context of Hinduism, building upon and challenging some of its ideas.
Siddhartha’s father, who was the equivalent of a king or a feudal lord, tried his best to protect his son from the troubles of the world and to make a good life for him in their palace. All of this was to encourage his son to aspire to kingship. Stories tell of Siddhartha’s life of leisure in a palace with female musicians and a harem of dancers. He married and had a son. But Siddhartha was curious about the outside world, and he left his home to take a chariot ride. The gods arranged for Siddhartha to witness the Four Sights: a bent aged man, a sick person, a corpse, and f ...
This Presentation will take you on journey , where you will learn how Prince Gautama became Sage Gautama Buddha and what are the teachings of Buddhism.
Buddhism Report Grade 11
Content
Buddhism Definition and History
Buddhism Types and Subdivision
Life of Buddha
The Sutras
Non-cannonical/Noncannonical Buddhist Texts
The Tripitaka (Pali Canon)
Beliefs and Doctrines
Law of Dependent Origination
Pratityasamutpada
Impermanence of Things
Four Noble Truths
Eight Fold Path
Worship and Observances
Women in Buddhism
Mahayana Buddhism
Paramitas
Six Paramitas
All forms of Buddhism celebrate various events in the life of the Buddha Gautama, including his birth, enlightenment, and passage into nirvana. In some countries, where the older and more conservative Theravada tradition predominates, the three events are observed on the same day, which is called Wesak. In regions adhering to the other major form of Buddhism, the Mahayana tradition, the festivals are held on different days and incorporate a variety of rituals and practices. The birth of the Buddha is celebrated in April or May, depending upon the lunar date, in these countries. In Japan, which does not use a lunar calendar, the Buddha’s birth is celebrated on April 8. The celebration there has merged with a native Shintō ceremony into the flower festival known as Hanamatsuri.
This presentation is presented by Mahachulalongkorn International philosophy students 2016. I want to share this side to everyone to learn more about Mahayana and zen buddhism in Japan.
Chapter 5 BUDDHISMChapter Overview Buddhism was born in th.docxchristinemaritza
Chapter 5 BUDDHISM
Chapter Overview
Buddhism was born in the fifth-century BCE in the foothills of the Himalayas. It spread from India throughout Asia, developing a variety of schools and different practices. It has more recently become popular in the West.
The goals of the chapter are:
1. To sketch a biography of Siddhartha, founder of Buddhism
2. To lay out the foundational tenets of Dharma, especially the Four Noble Truths, and the Eightfold Path
3. To illustrate key philosophical concepts such as karma, reincarnation, and nirvana
4. To illustrate lay and monastic practices within Buddhism
5. To explain distinctions between important expressions of Buddhism namely, Theravada and Mahayana, with examples of significant schools within Mahayana
Students should find the chapter section on the life of the Buddha lively and engaging. It is helpful to remind them that “the Buddha” (“one who has awakened” or “enlightened”) is a religious title and not a proper name. (The “u” in Buddha is pronounced like the “oo” in “good,” not like the “oo” in “food.”)
Given its origins in India and subsequent spread throughout Asia, Buddhism presents a challenge with respect to vocabulary from different Asian languages. Both Pali and Sanskrit were used in Indian Buddhism.
The life and legend of the Buddha
Scholarly debate continues about the exact dates of the Buddha’s life; he most likely lived for about eighty years during the fifth century BCE. Historically, verifiable details of his life are sparse; more important for understandings of Buddhism are the many ways followers have recalled his life in various sacred biographies. These sacred biographies describe the life of child named Siddhartha, born to Maya and Shuddhodana, who was a chief of the Shakya clan in northern India in the foothills along the Himalayas. Maya dreamed that a white elephant entered her womb. At the time of Siddhartha’s birth, priests foretold that this child would become either a great king or a person who would renounce earthly life in order to share his enlightenment with the rest of the world.
The sacred biographies of the Buddha provide a useful basis for comparison with other sacred biographies, such as the biblical accounts of the lives of Moses and Jesus. It is also useful to remind students that Buddhism develops within the context of Hinduism, building upon and challenging some of its ideas.
Siddhartha’s father, who was the equivalent of a king or a feudal lord, tried his best to protect his son from the troubles of the world and to make a good life for him in their palace. All of this was to encourage his son to aspire to kingship. Stories tell of Siddhartha’s life of leisure in a palace with female musicians and a harem of dancers. He married and had a son. But Siddhartha was curious about the outside world, and he left his home to take a chariot ride. The gods arranged for Siddhartha to witness the Four Sights: a bent aged man, a sick person, a corpse, and f ...
This Presentation will take you on journey , where you will learn how Prince Gautama became Sage Gautama Buddha and what are the teachings of Buddhism.
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The map views are useful for providing a geographical representation of data. They allow users to visualize and analyze the data in a more intuitive manner.
This is a presentation by Dada Robert in a Your Skill Boost masterclass organised by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan (EFSS) on Saturday, the 25th and Sunday, the 26th of May 2024.
He discussed the concept of quality improvement, emphasizing its applicability to various aspects of life, including personal, project, and program improvements. He defined quality as doing the right thing at the right time in the right way to achieve the best possible results and discussed the concept of the "gap" between what we know and what we do, and how this gap represents the areas we need to improve. He explained the scientific approach to quality improvement, which involves systematic performance analysis, testing and learning, and implementing change ideas. He also highlighted the importance of client focus and a team approach to quality improvement.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
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1. Page 1 of 16
Department of Education
Bureau of Learning Delivery
Teaching and Learning Division
Supplementary Learning Modules
for Senior High School Learners
Grade Levels: Grade 11
Specialized Subject: Introduction to World Religions and Belief
Systems
Semester: First Semester (Week 9)
*Analyze the brief history, core teachings, fundamental
LEARNING COMPETENCY:
2. Page 2 of 16
Beliefs, practices, and related issues of Theravada
Buddhism
THERAVADA BUDDHISM
The Theravada is the sole surviving branch of the earliest Buddhism.
Its primary emphasis was on monastic life, with the single goal of individual
Liberation through Enlightenment, until the early 20th century, when it became more
widely available.
Laypeople are encouraged to practice generosity and morality in hopes of a
better rebirth with the opportunity for more meditation practice.
The Theravada are sometimes derogatively called the Hīnayāna (Lesser, or
Smaller, Vehicle) by other branches of Buddhism. Its detractors see it as a teaching
for only an elite few.
This module will empower you to learn the situations that demonstrate cravings
which may lead to suffering, and the core teaching of Theravada Buddhism that life is
suffering; suffering is due to craving; there is a way to overcome craving; and the way
to overcome craving is the Four Noble Truths, Eight-fold Path, and the Middle Way
(between pleasure and mortification).
At the end of the module, you should be able to:
9.1. State the Four Noble Truths and the Eight-fold path- HUMSS_WRB12-II/IVb-9.1
9.2. Give examples of situations that demonstrate cravings which may lead to suffering
according to Theravada Buddhism-HUMSS_WRB12-II/IVb-9.2
9.3. Explain: The core teaching of Theravada Buddhism is that life is suffering;
suffering
is due to craving; there is a way to overcome craving; and the way to overcome
craving is the Eight-fold Path, the Middle Way (between pleasure and
mortification-
HUMSS_WRB12-II/IVb-9.3
9.4. Evaluate the Eight-fold Path in terms of how it achieves the Middle Way.
HUMSS_WRB12-II/IVb-9.
3. Page 3 of 16
Task 1. Key Questions:
1. What is unique about Theravada Buddhism?
2. Why is Theravada Buddhism so called?
3. Why do Theravada Buddhists believe the monastic lifestyle is the best way to
achieve enlightenment?
THERAVADA BUDDHISM
Buddhism is one of the most practical among the world’s great religions
because its belief system that intends to meet basic human needs and solve
humankind’s spiritual problem without depending on supernatural forces. The two
main divisions of the religion are Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. With
around 360 million followers, Mahayana Buddhism is practiced in China, Japan and
Mongolia. Meanwhile, Theravada Buddhism with 150 million people, is followed in
Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Buddhism is the religion of around 500 million or
about 7% to 8% of the world’s population. Buddhist followers are mostly found in the
Asian continent, with China having the largest population. Asian countries that have
the highest Buddhist majority in terms of population include Cambodia (97%), Thailand
(93%), Myanmar (80%), Bhutan (75%), Sri Lanka (69%), and Laos (66%). Buddhism
has two main divisions and many sects.
A major branch of the religion, Theravada Buddhism (“school of elder monks”
or “school of the ancients”) or the “Southern School of Buddhism” draws on the
collected teachings of the oldest recorded texts of Buddhist texts to become its central
precept, THE PALI CANON. This school aims to have the original teachings of
Siddhartha Gautama with pristine purity. Theravada Buddhism has gained
considerable following in the West in modern times.
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND
Buddhism has been in existence for over 2,500 years and has never
experienced any drastic or radical schisms in its evolution. As the disciples of
Siddhartha Gautama spread his word and preached throughout various communities,
there came a need for them to adapt to local culture, politics, and economic context.
Emerging branches of Buddhism had become adjusted to the millue of the place. They
may differ on the doctrines of Buddhism but their relationships with other subgroups
are generally good. The basic tenets of both major schools of thought originate from
Siddhartha Gautama whose life has become a constant source of inspiration to others.
LIFE OF THE BUDDHA
Siddharta Gautama may have been born between 563 B.C.E. to 480 B.C.E.
into the Sakya tribe in Lumbini which is Nepal in present day near the town of
Kapilavastu the capital city of the Sakya state in the foothills of the Nepalese
Himalayas. Born into the Kshatriya caste, his father was Suddhodana, an aristocratic
Hindu chieftain, and his mother was a Mahamaya, a Koliyan princess. The Buddha’s
family name was Gautama or Gotama. According to the tradition, at the time that
Siddhartha was conceived, Queen Mahamaya dreamt of a brilliant white light shining
4. Page 4 of 16
down on her from the sky. In the rays of the light was a magnificent white elephant
with six large tusks. The elephant moved closer to the Queen and melted into his body.
Ten months later, Siddhartha was born. He emerged from the side of the queen,
took seven steps, and said, “I have been born to achieve awakening (Bodhi) for the
god of the world; this is my last birth.” Mahamaya died shortly after giving birth to
Siddhartha. The name Siddhartha means “he who achieves his aim”. He was reared
by Mahamaya’s younger sister Mahapajapati who became his father’s second wife
and the first woman to request ordination from the Buddha. The word “BUDDHA”
means the “awakened one” or the “enlightened one.”
At the time of his birth, the seer Asia predicted that the child was destined for either
political or spiritual ascendancy. Since Suddhodana wanted Siddhartha to choose the
life of the great king, he made sure that the young boy experienced the comfort of
wealth and power. In effect, Suddhona kept his child shielded from harsh realities of
human suffering outside the luxurious palace. He was given noble education and
instruction in Science, horsemanship and archery. At the age of sixteen, his father
arranged Siddhartha’s marriage to a beautiful and refined young woman, Yasodhara
who later gave birth to their son Rahula. Siddhartha spent 29 years as a prince and
he began to develop a keen sense of discontent. As he felt constant emptiness despite
living a life of luxury and ease, be sought answers to his questions by leaving his
comfortable abode without the knowledge or approval of his family. He left his wife,
child, and social status as he began to search for truth and liberation.
Siddhartha’s venture outside the comfort of the palace led him to encounter four
suffering people that eventually transformed his outlook on life. The four encounters
or the ‘’The Four Signs’’ that occurred made him realized the inevitability of misery
in people’s lives.
First, meeting an old man made him accept that old age was an unavoidable
circumstance no matter how unwelcome it is to a person.
Second, a crippled man reflected upon him that illness is inescapable despite
a person’s relentless effort to avoid any diseases.
Third, a decaying corpse made him understand that death was the inevitable
end of all.
Last, an ascetic monk impressed upon him the person’s tranquillity and the
possibility of renouncing worldly pleasure in exchange for utter quietude.
All these distressing manifestations convinced him that worldly and material
possessions could not satisfy one’s need. Taking his finest horse, he rode off into the
night. He cut his hair and beard, and sent them back with the horse through his
charioteer. He renounced the members of his caste despite his Father’s resistance
and he resolved to become a mendicant, a beggar of alms. Also known as the ‘’Great
Renunciation,’’ he lived as an ascetic with homeless existence. He went to the forest
and clothed himself in the yellow robes of a hermit.
Siddhartha practiced asceticism in search of a way to escape suffering. Far
withdrawn from his accustomed environment, he lived at the outskirts of society and
associated himself with religious masters. As he became dissatisfied with their
teachings, however, he went on his own way to subject himself to inexorable
asceticism through self- mortification and fasting that reached a point of living on a
single grain of rice per day. For the next six years, he practiced religious strictness,
5. Page 5 of 16
were no clothes, and did not wash. Food and sleep became scarce. He became
emaciated and feeble as a result of long periods of starvation, to the point that he
almost died. Five ascetics came to join him as his companions. All the life of
depravation was no better than a life of pleasure. As he began to take normal foods,
his ascetic companions felt scandalized by his backsliding and deserted him. In the
end, Siddharta advocated the avoidance of two extremes namely: Self- indulgence
and Self-denial. He taught the way toward “MIDDLE PATH” that was a life of self-
discipline and introspection but not self-flagellation.
Seated beneath a pipal tree, now known as the bo or Bodhi tree, near the
Indian village, Siddhartha finally obtained his enlightenment after years of searching
as he passed the four stages of meditative trance or dhyana/jhana. Buddhist legend
recounts his triumphs over the devil Mara who personified evil forces that torment the
minds of humankind, including greed, hatred, ignorance, jealousy, and doubt. Despite
the many attempts of Mara to disturb Siddhartha’s firm meditation, appearing as
storms and rains, the devil was vanquished and faded like a bad dream. Mara failed
to tempt Siddhartha with wealth and flesh; he could not break the calm determination
of the seeker of the truth. After 49 days of meditation, Siddhartha emerged victorious
and attained the state of absolute awakening. He became a “BUDDHA” or the
“AWAKENED ONE” who’s every action from thereon would be motivated only by
generosity, compassion and wisdom. He had visions of the cycle of birth and death
that was the fate of humankind. Siddhartha was 35 years old when he attained
enlightenment.
For 45 years he travelled India from cities to towns and preached a message
of hope and happiness while winning many new coverts to his folds. At the age of 80
and on a full moon, he died in Kushinagar.
SACRED SCRIPTURES
The early schools of Buddhism developed their own unique body of sacred
texts. Of these, however, only the Pali Canon or the Tipitaka/Tripitaka (“three baskets”)
of Theravada survives. Preserved in the Pali language, the standard collection of
scriptures of Theravada Buddhist is the first known, the most conservative, and the
most complete of Buddhist writings.
After Siddhartha’s death or pirinirvana, the “First Buddhist Council” was called
to order to recite the content of his teaching or dharma/dharma. These teaching were
initially passed down orally until they were recorded in palm trees after five centuries.
In Pali language, the word pitaka translate as “basket” referring to the
receptacles where the palm leaf manuscripts were stored by the monks.
The Three Baskets (tipitaka/tripitaka) and their contents:
TIPITAKA CONTENTS
Sutta Pitaka (discourse) Buddha’s doctrinal discourses short
poems to long prose narratives about
Siddhartha’s previous lives
6. Page 6 of 16
Vinaya Pitaka (Discipline) Rules of discipline; stories that illustrate
Buddhist moral principles
Abhidhamma Pitaka (Ultimate Doctrine) Systematic analysis of the categories of
Buddhist thought
The first basket, the Sutta Pitaka, contains occasional teaching delivered by
Siddhartha on different occasions.
The second basket, the Vinaya Pitaka, contains the disciplinary code required
of Buddhist monks and nuns. Various rules and regulations must be followed by the
monastic community.
The third basket, the Abhidhamma Pitaka, is a work of moral psychology. The
reflective teachings of Siddhartha’s teachings were contained in this basket that strictly
a Theravada collection.
BELIEFS AND DOCTRINES
Siddhartha never intended to start a new religion, so his teachings were
focused on ethics and self-understanding as people work on their salvation on their
own without needing the assistance of any supreme being. Here lies the main
difference of Buddhism with other religions--- it has no place for God or saviour, as
salvation entirely lies within anyone’s control. Siddhartha did not claim to be a saviour
but a guide and teacher as he pointed the way for others to follow and gain spiritual
bliss in doing so.
Another unique feature of Buddhism is the belief that soul or the Hindu atman
does not exist as people live in a state of nonsoulness or nonatman/anatta. Budhism
does not preach that humans have eternal and indestructible soul. Nothing is
permanent in this world, hence, all things change and are impermanent. The mark of
impermanence or anitya/anicca states that all conditioned things are transitory and
passing: they all have beginning and end to their existence. Human existence, or what
we call soul, is a composite of five mental or physical aggregates or khandas. These
aggregates include the (1) physical form or corporality, (2) feelings or sensations, (3)
understanding or perception, (4) will or mental formation, (5) consciousness. Hence,
humans do not have a permanent, unchanging, real soul that dwells within them. In
effect, no soul is being reborn because there is no permanence in anything,
FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS
The teachings of Siddhartha include discourses on the basic tenets of
Buddhism, such as the “FOUR NOBLE TRUTHS” and the “NOBLE EIGHT FOLD
PATH.” Siddhartha’s pursuit for enlightenment was due to the dissatisfaction he
continually experienced despite living an opulent life in the palace. The Pali term for
unsatisfactoriness or suffering is dukkha.
Dukkha manifested in misery, distress, agony, emptiness, or conflict. Outside
the real world, Siddhartha began to witness the various manifestations of inescapable
suffering-e from old age, illness, and eventual death. He analysed the problem of
dukkha that led him to arrive to the basic law of causation or the “Four Noble Truths”.
(1) The First Noble Truth. This identifies the origin of the problem- the dukkha.
Suffering can be experienced throughout the different stages of a person’s life- from
7. Page 7 of 16
birth, sickness, old age, to ultimate death. When one clings to one of the previously
stated aggregates, this leads to suffering. When one unites with the unpleasant, it
causes suffering. When one dissociates from the pleasant, it also results in suffering.
(2) The Second noble Truth. This explains the cause of suffering or the
samodaya- in craving or desire (or tanha), in perpetual thirst of humans to consume
things, experiences, or ideas. People are never satisfied as they always want more or
something else, want something new, or just want to discontinue something. People
crave for existence or non-existence and seek sensual pleasures. People search for
self-satisfaction from things they believe they can experience. However, since the
nature of all these things is impermanent, people become attached to these things due
to ignorance that leads to desire and eventual suffering.
(3) The Third Noble Truth. This asserts that there is a cessation or nirodha to
suffering and bondage by eliminating craving and desire. By dropping the bonds of
craving, one gets to be released from the fundamental nature of reality.
(4) The Fourth Noble Truth. This directs an individual to the path or magga
leading to the termination of craving and desire, and to eventful cessation of pain.
Likewise, one most avoid self-indulgence and self- torture since both are pointless.
This is the path toward moderation or the ‘’Middle Way’’ aimed at ending suffering.
Known as the ‘’Noble Eightfold Path’’ which is an entirely practical path and each
describe as ‘’right’’ or sama and it’s divided into three aspects namely: wisdom,
morality, and meditation. For path of wisdom, this includes: right view and right
intention. For path of morality, this includes: right speech and right action, and right
livelihood. For path of meditation, it consists of Right Effort, right mindfulness and right
concentration.
EIGHTFOLD PATH WHAT ONE MUST DO
Right View Understand the “FOUR NOBLE
TRUTHS”
Right Intention Free one’s self from ill-will, cruelty and
untruthfulness
Right Speech Abstain from untruthfulness, title-
bearing, harsh language, and vain talk
Right Action Abstain from killing, stealing, and sexual
misconduct
Right Livelihood Earn a living in a way not harmful to any
living thing
Right Effort Avoid evil thoughts and overcome them,
arouse good thoughts and maintain them
Right Mindfulness Pay vigilant attention to every state of the
body, feeling, and mind
Right Concentration Concentrate on a single object so as to
induce certain special states of
consciousness in deep meditation.
The mastery of the various truths and observance of the path would lead a
person to break the bond that binds him or her to life and obtain release from the
8. Page 8 of 16
eternal cycle of death and rebirth or samsara. This cycle is influenced by karma which
is the law of cause and effect.
LAW OF DEPENDENT ORIGINATION
The Law of Dependent Origination or Paticca-sammupada is one of the most
insightful teachings of Siddhartha. With everything built upon a set of relations, it
follows that every effect has a definite cause and every cause has a definite effect. In
short, nothing comes into being by mere accident and actions do not happen in a
random way. A short formula for this principle can be read in four lines as: when this
is; this arising, that arises; when this is not, that is not; this ceasing, that ceases.
IMPARMANENCE OF THINGS
Nothing in this world is fixed and permanent and everything is subject to change
and alteration. Impermanence is an avoidable fact of human existence. Buddhism
affirms five processes deemed uncontrollable by any individual: old age, sickness,
dying, decay, and death. However, when one is released from samsara, a being
escapes all these phenomena. That being has then reached a state called nirvana
wherein desire has been extinguished from one’s self. No more unpleasant karma can
be created while greed, hatred, and delusion have all been obliterated. Everyone is
capable of attaining nirvana in this life just as the saints of Buddhism did in their lives.
Those who have achieved nirvana are called arhat or one who is ‘’worthy of honor’’.
THE SANGHA
The Pali word sangha literally means ‘’sharer’’ that refers to monks who share
in the general fund of alms provided by a community. Translated as ‘’association’’ or
‘’assembly,’’ sangha pertains to the Buddhist order and monastic community as
founded by Siddhartha during the same year that he attained his enlightenment
Ordained Buddhist monks are called bhikkus while nuns are called bhikkunis.
During the time of Siddhartha, bhikkus were dressed in rags, lived at the foot of the
tree, and begged for alms. They abstained from sexual pleasures, stealing, and killing.
They constantly meditate and study the teachings of Siddhartha. In short, all bikkhus
must live a life of poverty and chastity and should strictly follow the codified rules as
contained in the Vinaya Pitaka. Within the Vinaya Pitaka is a list of around 250 items
of conduct that must be avoided or suffer the consequences of expulsion, suspension
or reproach depending on the severity of the offense. This particular list is recited
regularly and confession is required once a transgression is committed. Members of
the sangha must ensure that Buddhist teachings are to be preserved and transmitted,
wether orally or in written form. The so called ‘’Three Jewels” or triratna summarize
the Buddhist faith: I take refuge in the Buddha, in the teaching, and in the sangha.
WORSHIP AND OBSERVANCE
Attainment of salvation for any Buddhist is by way of one’s own action without
the assistance of any supreme or supernatural being. Followers are guided by the
teachings of Siddhartha as lay people offer gifts to Siddhartha and the sangha during
the days of worship and observance.
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Stupas are commemorative monuments that contain sacred relics associated
with Siddhartha himself, and the venerable monks and nuns. These burial mounds
predate Buddhism as ancient Indian kings and heroes were housed in stupas. With
the death of Siddhartha, his body was cremated and his ashes were divided among
eight followers and preserved in eight stupas. None of these stupas remain fully intact
as of today. With a million stupas located all over Asia, not all stupas house
Siddhartha’s relics. Others contain artefacts of his revered disciples, or his image,
writings, or teachings. Stupas represent Siddhartha’s body, speech and mind. The
design of the stupa depicts the path of enlightenment and became pilgrimage sites as
they were covered in earth and decorated with Siddhartha’s life. In Tibet, the stupa
was transformed into a chorten and elsewhere it became a pagoda in Southeast and
East Asia.
Most Buddhist aspire to visit many holy shrines as possible during their lifetime
for this is an admirable deed. Siddhartha himself pronounced four to which every
Buddhist must give high regard. These include his birthplace, the place of his
enlightenment, the place of his first sermon, and the place of his pirinirvana. To anyone
who takes pilgrimage to these sacred place and dies while travelling, this could bring
about rebirth beyond death in a blissful world.
In Sri Lanka, many pilgrims visit Adam’s Park or Sri Pada. A tall conical
mountain popular for the mark of the sacred footprint of Siddhartha (for Buddhist) and
Adam (for Christians). For several hours, pilgrims climb the mountain amidst arduous
paths and thousands of steps. Most pilgrims undertake the journey every month of
April.
For Buddhist celebrations, the most important festival occurs every may on the
night of the full moon as Buddhist followers around the world commemorates the birth
enlightenment, and death of Siddhartha about 2,500 years ago. Known as Vesakha or
Vesak, it also known as “Budhha Purnima’’ or ‘’Buddha Day.’’ Vesak refers to the lunar
month that falls in May and ‘’Vesak Day’’ is the holiest day for all the Buddhist.
Celebrated as immense festivity, Buddhists send out thoughts of affectionate
benevolence to the living and to the departed ones and they also perform rituals at
stupas.
Most festivals celebrated in the Buddhist tradition are frequently happy
occasions. Lay people proceed to the monasteries and offer food to the sangha as
they meditate and listen to the sermons. Most Buddhist celecrations are held to
commemorate important events in the life odf Siddhartha. Apart from Buddhist New
year, other celebrations include Magha Puja Day (Sangha Day), Asalha Puja day
(Dhamma day), Uposatha (Observance Day), Pavarana day, Kathina Day, and Bodhi
Day (Enlightenment Day).
Magha Puja Day occurs during the full moon of the third lunar month. It
commemorates the event were Siddhartha went to Rajgir to meet and ordain the 1250
arhats in Venuvana Monastery. It also commemorates Siddharthas first teaching (or
the turning of the wheel of dharma) held near Besares.
SUBDIVISIONS
Theravada is the more conservative subdivision of Buddhism than Mahayana.
Thus, it is closer to the fundamental teachings of Siddhartha. Sri Lanka, Maynmar, and
10. Page 10 of 16
Thailand are predominantly Theravada Buddhist. The Indian Emperor Ashoka Maurya,
who ruled propagated Buddhism in Sri Lanka that has remained relatively unchanged
through time as a result of its peaceful history.
SELECTED ISSUES
WAR AND VIOLENCE
In Buddhism, war is evil or akusala and some scholars state that it has no
rationalization in Siddhartha’s teaching. However, there are instances wherein
Buddhist monks engaged themselves in open conflict, such as those that occurred in
China and Japan. When Buddhists defend their nations, home and family, this may
not be necessarily wrong as the religions morality is based upon principles, not rules.
It is not righteous to ignore a circumstance when innocent civilians are killed and
slaughtered. Buddhists are taught not to yield to any form of evil power, whether
originating from humans or supernatural beings. They are compelled to go to war when
other people do not value the concept of brotherhood. They may defend and protect
their country’s sovereignty and have the duty to join in the struggle for amity and liberty.
Following Buddha’s teachings, everyone is encouraged to avoid hostilities and instead
find ways to resolve disagreements in a peaceful manner.
WOMEN IN BUDDHISM
Siddhartha allowed women to participate in sangha although there are
stipulations. His outlook is very different when one considers the status of women in
ancient India as being viewed as inferior top men. Considered at times belonging to
the lowest caste, women’s principal role was to become faithful and devoted
housewives subject to the whims of their husbands. However, both sexes are seen as
equally relevant in society as they share equally relevant in society as they share equal
responsibilities in their family duties. Within the sangha. Siddhartha recognized the
potential and value of the bhikkunis who were also experts in teaching the dharma.
Task 2: Answer the following questions:
1. Why Buddhism considered one of the most practical among the world’s great
religions?
2. In what aspects are Buddhism similar or differ from Hinduism?
3. How can Buddhism affect change on powerful countries that use war to gain
political or economic advantage?
4. Why Does Buddha believe that one must truly understand the four noble
Truths and The Middle way before beginning the eightfold Path?
11. Page 11 of 16
►The fundamental teachings of Buddhism are closely tied to the life of
Siddhartha Gautama who was born in Lumbini in the foothills of the Nepalese
Himalayas.
► the Theravada sect is the school of Buddhism that draw its scriptural
inspiration from the Pali canon or Tipitaka/Tripitaka (three baskets).
►The teachings of Siddhartha include discourse on the “Four Noble Truths,”
“Eight Fold Path,” “Impermanence of Things,” and “Dependent Origination.”
►The sangha pertains to the Buddhist order and monastic community as
founded by Siddhartha during the same year that he attained enlightenment.
►Most Buddhist festivals are frequently happy celebrations. They are being
held to commemorate important events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama.
Task 3:
Match Column A with Column B. Write the letter of the correct
answer on the blanks provided.
COLUMN A COLUMN B
_______1. A new spiritual community a. dhyana
_______ 2. Pali Canon b. karma
_______ 3. Nonsoulness c. dukkha
_______ 4. Cycle of birth and rebirth d. tanha
_______ 5. Law of cause and effect e. stupas
_______ 6. Unsatisfactoriness or suffering f. bhikkus
_______ 7. Craving or desire g. tipitaka/tripitaka
_______ 8. Commemorative monuments that h. samsara
contains sacred relics
_______ 9. Ordained Buddhist monks i. anatman/anatta
_______ 10. The four stages of meditative trance j. sangha
Task 4: Complete the table by filling in the blanks with the correct answer.
Choose the answer from the list below.
1. Untruthfulness 2. Tale-bearing 3. Single 4. Overcome 5. Living thing
6. Killing 7. Four Noble Truths 8. Feeling 9. Maintain 10. meditation
12. Page 12 of 16
EIGHTFOLD PATH WHAT ONE MUST DO
Right View
Understand the “_______(1)______________”
Right Intention
Free one’s self from ill-will, cruelty, and ________(2)_________’’
Right Speech
Abstain from untruthfulness, ____ (3) ______ harsh language, and vain talk
Right Action
Abstain from_______ (4) _____ stealing, and sexual misconduct
Right livelihood
Earn a living in a way not harmful to any _____ (5) ______
Right Effort
Avoid evil thoughts and ___ (6) __ them, arouse good thoughts and ___ (7) _
them Right Mindfulness
Pay vigilant attention to every state of the body ____ (8) ___ and mind
Right Concentration
Concentrate on a ___ (9) _____ object so as to induce certain special states
of consciousness in deep _ (10) _.
Write your personal reflection about the topic:
I have learned that ________________
________________
______.
I have realized that ________________
_________________
_____.
I will apply _____________
_________________
_______________.
13. Page 13 of 16
Compare and contrast the Eightfold Path and the Ten Commandments.
Write an explanatory essay using your cubes of knowledge as a starting point and
investigate the Eightfold Path and the Four Noble Truths.
Rubric for the Essay
Criteria Description Points Points
Obtained
Organization The concept was clearly and
creatively conveyed
5
Content The different practices were
thoroughly explained and
examples were provided
10
Presentation The idea was clearly
presented based on the
words used
5
TOTAL 20
Glossary:
The following terms used in this module are defined as follows:
Akusala- war is evil
Anatman/anatta- a state of nonsoulness
Anitya/anicca- the mark of impermanence that all conditioned things are transitory
and passing
Ascetic- homeless existence
Atman- Hindu soul
Bikkhus- ordained Buddhist monks
Bikkhunis- nuns
Buddha- awakened one
Buddhism- one of the most practical among the world’s great religions because of its
belief system
Dharma- Buddha’s teachings
Dhyana/jhana- meditative trance
Dukkha- suffering
Four Noble Truths- basic law of causation
Karma- law of cause and effect
Khandas- mental or physical aggregates
Magga- leading to the termination of craving and desire
Middle Way- aimed at ending of suffering
Nirodha- cessation to suffering and bondage by eliminating cravcing and desire.
Nirvana- perfect peace
Noble Eightfold Path- entirely practical path
Pali Canon- oldest recorded Buddhist texts
Parinirvana- Siddhartha’s death
14. Page 14 of 16
Paticca-Samuppada- most insightful teachings of Siddhartha
Samma- describe as ‘’right’’
Samodaya- the cause of suffering
Samsara- cycle of death and rebirth
Sangha- new spiritual community
Siddhartha Gautama- founder of Buddhism
Shramana- ascetic monk
Stupa- memorial mound
Stupas- commemorative monuments that contain sacred relics
Tanha- craving or desire
Theravada Buddhism- a major branch of Buddhism
Tipitaka/Tripitaka- three baskets referring to the receptacles where the palm leaf
manuscripts were stored by the monks
Answer Keys:
Task 1: Students answer may vary
Task 2: Students answer may vary
Task 3: Matching Type
1. J
2. G
3. I
4. H
5. B
6. C
7. D
8. E
9. F
10. A
Task 4: Table
1. Four Noble Truths
2. Untruthfulness
3. tale-bearing
4. killing
5. living thing
6. overcome
7. maintain
8. feeling
9. single
10. maintain
`Tasks 5: Answers may vary
15. Page 15 of 16
References:
INTERNET SOURCES
BuddhaSasana by Binh Anson - Main Index
https://www.budsas.org
Buddhist Studies: Buddhism & Women: Position of Women
http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/position.htm
Buddhist Festivals and Special Days - BuddhaNet
http://www.buddhanet.net/festival.htm
The Buddhist Concept of Impermanence - Urban Dharma
https://www.urbandharma.org/udharma8/imperm.html
The Sangha: The Buddhist Community | Religious Literacy..
https://rlp.hds.harvard.edu/religions/buddhism/sangha-buddhist-community
Theravada Buddhism | Introduction | Red Zambala
http://buddhism.redzambala.com/buddhism/philosophy/theravada-buddhism-
introducti
Theravada Buddhism—History and Teachings - Learn Religions
https://www.learnreligions.com/theravada-buddhism-45011
Tripitaka or Pali Canon - ReligionFacts
http://www.religionfacts.com/tripitaka
TEXTBOOK
Ong, J. A. and Jose, M. D. dl. (2016). Introduction to World Religions and Belief
Systems (Senior High School Textbook) Ground Floor, Bonifacio Bldg., DepEd
Complex Meralco Avenue, Pasig City, Philippines 1600, Vibal Group
Prepared by:
FLORECIL L. BALLENER
Teacher II
Schools Division of Passi City
Region VI
Evaluated by:
NESCEL P. PANES, PhD JUNAL M. MARCON, PhD
Education Program Supervisor Master Teacher I
Schools Division of Passi City Schools Division of Passi City
Region VI Region VI