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Introduction to Buddhism

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waterlilysmall.jpgBuddhism has long been a major religion, its origins stretching far into the past and now claiming to have 300 million followers. A way of life as well as a religion, the Buddhist principles are followed by many who don’t claim to be Buddhist.

Origins: Buddhism’s origins take root about 2,500 years ago when Siddhartha Gotama, known as the Buddha, became ‘enlightened’ when he was about 35 years old. Little of Siddhartha’s life can be regarded as established with historical fact, but it’s said Siddhartha’s father saw a wise man upon Siddhartha’s birth and the wise man said he would be a great king or a great holy man. While some consider Buddhism to be purely a way of life, it is still considered a religion.

Beliefs: There are many beliefs associated with Buddhism, but well known are the three noble truths: Life is suffering, suffering is caused by craving and aversion, and that suffering can be overcome and happiness is attainable. As Buddhism is regarded as a way of life, there are basic principles, but believers are encouraged to test these truths for themselves.

God: The Buddha was not a god nor did he claim to be. Buddhism claims to transcend a personal god. “Buddhists sometimes pay respect to images of the Buddha, not in worship, nor to ask for favours. A statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in its lap and a compassionate smile reminds us to strive to develop peace and love within ourselves. Bowing to the statue is an expression of gratitude for the teaching.� [Source]

Principles [Source]:
The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances.

Other sources of information:
BuddhaNet
Buddhism @ Wikipedia
Buddhism @ About.com


Posted in Religion on March 27th, 2008

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