Buddhism

Buddhism originated about 2,500 years ago in Nepal. According to tradition Prince Siddhartha Guatama found enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree after searching for the meaning of suffering within the forest. The Prince returned from the forest as the ‘awakened one’ and became known as ‘Buddha.’ The Bodhi Tree is now a sacred symbol. Buddhists believe developing the qualities of kindness and awareness will achieve freedom from suffering and will help other do the same.

Scriptures

The ‘Pali’ Canon is the oldest collection of the Buddha’s teachings. It was written in Pali. There are also translations in Sanskrit, Tibetan and Chinese. All Buddha’s teachings have been translated into modern languages. In mainstream Buddhism books are not sacred, they are just a collection of teachings.

Key Beliefs

Buddhism does not believe in a creator God and does not claim to possess a divinely revealed book. Buddha taught that a natural law or moral causation exists in the universe and contravention of this law brings adverse consequences. Buddhists follow the Four Noble Truths:

  • Duhkha – suffering and perfection are part of life;
  • Samudays – desire for and attachment to material things and mental objects
  • Nirodha – Belief that release from suffering and desires can be delivered;
  • Marga – the way to contentment. This path is known as the middle way, it is the course between and beyond the excesses of self-indulgence and self-denial to reach the state of bliss and freedom known as Nirvana which can only be achieved by following the Eightfold path of: right view; right thoughts; right speech; right action; right livelihood; right effort; right mindfulness and right concentration.

Buddhist’s follow the five precepts:

  • Refrain from harming living beings;
  • Refrain from taken what is not given;
  • Refrain from sexual misconduct and misuse of the senses;
  • Refrain from harmful speech;
  • Refrain from drink and drugs which cloud the mind.

Worship

Places of worship usually contain a statue of the Buddha, a place for teaching and meditation and occasionally accommodation for nuns and monks. The shrine room will have the focal point for worship. This is where the statue of Buddha is found along with incense, flowers and candles. Most Buddhists will have a shrine in their home including a statue of Buddha. If you enter a shrine room you should be modestly dressed and remove your shoes. A Buddhist will spend some time each day meditating.

Diet and dress

Buddhism emphasises the avoidance of intentional killing, however there is a variety of practice with regard to the eating of meats. Many Buddhists are vegetarian though there are no dietary rules. Most Buddhists prefer to wear clothing that reflects their beliefs of non-harm to self and others.

Points to remember

  • Do not shake hands unless invited
  • Accept refreshments if they are offered

Festivals

    The main festivals are:
  • Vaisakha Puja/Wesak or Buddha day;
  • Parinirvana;
  • Dharmachakra.


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