buddhist beliefs

• Who is considered the founder of Buddhism?

  Siddhartha Gautama
• What does the title 'Buddha' mean?

  'The enlightened one' or 'the awakened one'
• Why is it difficult to distinguish between fact and legend in the Buddha's life?

  Sources were written years after his death
• Who were the Buddha's parents?

  Queen Maya and King Suddhodana
• What significant event occurred during Maya's pregnancy?

  She dreamt of a pure white elephant
• Where did Siddhartha Gautama give birth?

  In the garden in Lumbini
• What prophecy was made shortly after Siddhartha's birth?

  He would become a great king or holy man
• Who raised Siddhartha after his mother's death?

  His mother's sister, Maha Pajapati
• How did King Suddhodana try to prevent Siddhartha from becoming religious?

  By providing an environment without suffering
• What does Siddhartha's imprisonment in paradise symbolize?

  His sheltered upbringing and lack of suffering
• What types of luxuries did Siddhartha enjoy in the palace?

  Silk clothes, best foods, dancers, education
• What does Siddhartha's quote about being nurtured reveal about his upbringing?

  • He was delicately cared for
  • He had luxuries like lotus ponds
  • He was protected from harsh conditions
• What did Siddhartha experience during his ascetic life?

  Extreme self-discipline and fasting
• What did Siddhartha realize about ascetic practices?

  They did not provide answers to suffering
• What led Siddhartha to develop the 'middle way'?

  His experiences with luxury and asceticism
• Where did Siddhartha meditate to seek enlightenment?

  Underneath a Bodhi tree
• What did Mara do to try to distract Siddhartha during meditation?

  Sent daughters, armies, and offered kingdoms
• How did Siddhartha respond to Mara's temptations?

  He stayed focused on his meditation
• What did Siddhartha touch to call upon the earth as a witness?

  He touched the earth
• What are the three watches of the night Siddhartha experienced during enlightenment?

  Knowledge of past lives, rebirth cycle, suffering
• What title did Siddhartha receive after enlightenment?

  The Buddha
• What did the Buddha devote his life to after enlightenment?

  Teaching others to overcome suffering
• Who were the first disciples of the Buddha?

  The five ascetics he left behind
• What are the key concepts of the Dhamma?

  • Truth about existence
  • Path of training recommended by Buddha
  • Understanding of suffering and enlightenment
• What is the significance of the three refuges in Buddhism?

  • Central values in Buddha's life
  • Foundation of the Buddhist community
  • Guiding principles for followers
• What does the term 'ascetic' refer to in Buddhism?

  • A strict group practicing self-discipline
  • Individuals who deny physical pleasures
  • Followers of a spiritual path seeking enlightenment
• What is the role of scriptures in Buddhism?

  • Sacred texts containing teachings
  • Guides for meditation and practice
  • Historical accounts of the Buddha's life
• What does 'karmic energy' refer to in Buddhism?

  • Energy from positive or negative actions
  • Influence on future rebirths
  • Central to understanding suffering
• What is the significance of the Bodhi tree in Buddhism?

  • Site of Siddhartha's enlightenment
  • Symbol of awakening and wisdom
  • Important pilgrimage site for Buddhists
• What does the term 'Dhamma' encompass in Buddhist teachings?

  • Truth realized by the Buddha
  • Path to enlightenment
  • Core teachings of Buddhism
• What is the oldest denomination of Buddhism?

  Theravada
• What does 'thera' mean in Pali?

  It means 'elder'
• What is the native Indian language specific to Hinduism?

  Sanskrit
• In which countries is Theravada Buddhism mostly practised?

  Thailand, Sri Lanka, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar
• How is Theravada Buddhism often regarded?

  As classical or orthodox Buddhism
• What does the term 'enlightened' refer to in Buddhism?

  Spiritual wisdom gained from understanding reality
• What is primarily reserved for men in Theravada Buddhism?

  Full ordination
• What are scriptures in a religious context?

  Sacred texts within a religion
• Who is the main focus of commitment in Theravada Buddhism?

  The Buddha
• What do Theravada monastics promise to follow?

  Several rules including not owning anything